1. Othello Historical Context – Late 16 th Century Notes taken from “Othello Research”

2. Who were the Moors? Derived from Arabs and Berbers of North Africa Nomadic people Mainly Muslim

3. Who were the Venetians? People of Venice, Italy, famous for its canals Wealthy and powerful City of significant military and political power

4. The Women of Venice Role of Daughter Obey father Land always went to eldest son – if no son, then daughters equally Marriage A union based on money, property, and political alliances (church rules vs. country rules) Role of Bride Inferior Obedient to husbands Cook, clean, make babies Marry as a virgin

5. The Red Light District Despite being an intellectual and artistic center, known for its educational system, architecture, and art, Venice also had a ‘seedy’ side. Veronica Franco Renaissance Venetian society had two varieties of courtesans - the intellectual (cortigiana onesta) and the lower class prostitute (cortigiana di lume). Veronica Franco belonged to the former and although she was born into the trade (her mother was also a working girl) was well educated and boasted a considerable standard of literary and artistic skill. Her erotic verse is notorious. Between the sheets, her liaisons included Henry III of France. http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/features/kiss-amp-tell-the- twilight-world-of-tartlit-1005492.html?action=Gallery&ino=6

6. Moors & Venetians: Can’t we all just get along? The Moors conquered Spain in 10 th century Spain was then conquered during the Christian ‘re-conquest’ which ended in almost complete victory by 1487-92 (No Jews, No Muslims) Moors who remained were discriminated against, especially for race and religious beliefs (especially if Muslim)

7. No, we cannot. Moors were characterized as savage, promiscuous, unorthodox, even Satanic. Anyone with dark skin was referred to derogatorily as a Moor. Eventually, despite their contributions to society and serving as mercenaries to defend Spain, they were ‘virtually exterminated’ by 1568 and then expelled by King Phillip III in 1609. (Thank you for your service. Good bye.) And don’t try England, Elizabeth doesn't want you either.

8. Military General – Powerful leader of the army. Respected in society. Usually very experienced. (Othello) Lieutenant – Assigned by general. Can give orders to lower ranking soldiers. Does not hold the social status of general. (Cassio) Ensign or Ancient – General’s personal aid (Iago) Mercenaries – Hired foreign soldiers (Othello & Cassio)

9. What is it like today? What rules dictate the behavior of young men and women in relationships today? Name a situation in which the rules have clearly been violated. That is, what are things “nice girls” just don’t do? What are things “nice boys” just don’t do? Why do these rules exist? Do you think they just apply locally or even just in your school? What are the possible consequences of breaking these rules?

10. Cyprus At the time of the play, Venetian territory (known as the land of love) About to be attacked by Turks – impending war Strategically located between the Muslim East and the Christian West The land in- between – It is not Othello’s North Africa, but nor is it Iago’s Venice.

11. Without Further Ado – A Teaser

12. Dramatic Devices – Take out your packets! Tragedy Tragic Hero Imagery Irony Paradox Metaphors & Similes Symbolism Foreshadowing Mood Stage Directions Implied Stage Directions Double Time

13. How was it spoken? Dialogue Aside Soliloquy Monologue Blank Verse vs. Prose

14. Shakespeare’s Language