Shakespeare’s Othello 10th Literature Spring 2018

The Tragedy of Othello, the Moor of Venice Written by William Shakespeare between 1601-1604. Published in 1622

Setting Othello is set against the backdrop of the wars between Venice and Turkey that raged in the late sixteenth century. Cyprus (which is the setting for most of the play) was a Venetian outpost.

Characteristics of a Tragedy Tragic hero – someone of great social importance. Likable - whatever trait is most likable, often leads to the hero’s downfall. (Passion in Romeo and Juliet) At some point the hero falls from glory. His own hubris (desire to reach beyond possibility) ensures a downfall. Mixture of personal choice and fate. The hero must make a personal choice that will result in an unstoppable chain of negative events. Hero must realize his mistake, but always too late. Not only does the hero suffer, but his choice will inflict misery upon other people.

Othello, the Moor The term “moor” was used to refer to North Africans, West Africans, non-whites or Muslims of any origin. North and West Africans living in Elizabethan England were frequently singled out for their unusual dress, behavior and customs and were commonly referred to as “devils” or “villains.” Moors were commonly stereotyped as animalistic and wicked.

However, Othello is a noble figure of great authority However, Othello is a noble figure of great authority. He is respected and admired by the duke and senate of Venice as well as by those who serve him. Only Iago and Roderigo voice an explicitly stereotypical view of Othello, depicting him from the beginning as an animalistic, depraved outsider.

A couple more terms to know! Soliloquy- one character speaking – no other characters on stage Aside- lines spoken away from the main action; directed either at a peripheral character or at the audience. Monologue- one character speaking to other characters on stage, the speech is part of the action of the play.