Contextual themes in Othello

Contextual themes in Othello

1. Racism

   • Iago's attitude to Othello
   • Brabantio's view of Othello
   • Insults around Othello's colour
   • Othello's own view of himself

2. Reputation

   • Cassio sees this as important
   • Iago exploits the issue of reputation
   • Sign of acceptance in Venetian society

3. Religion

   • Christian values of Venetians
   • Muslim faith of Othello
   • Othellos desires to be chrisitian initially
   • Catholic state of Venice
   • Protestant values of England.

4. Hierarchy

   • Social status
   • Master/servant relationships
   • Power linked very much to status

5. Role of the outsider

   • Danger
   • Exotic
   • Suspicion

6. Age

7. Marriage

   • Black marrying white

8. Black magic/spirits