Othello- Context

Othello- Context

1. (Believed to have been) Written in 1603

   • Based on 'Un Capitano Moro', a short story by Cinthio (a disciple of Boccaccio), 1st published in 1565
   • Elizabeth 1st: 17 November 1558–1603 (House of Tudor)
   • James 1st: 24 March 1603–1625 (House of Stuart)

2. Venice, C16th & 17th

   • Exotic & rich
   • Important Mediterranean trading centre for goods from Far East
   • Centre of fashion, culture, & sophistication

3. Britain in time of Othello

   • Racism & prejudice towards black people= rife
   • Black community= viewed as animalistic, not human
   • Black people= integrated into society
   • Predominant community of ordinary, working black people in London
   • 'Moor'= Muslim inhabitants of Sicily, Moneta, the Iberian peninsula, & Northern Africa

4. Elizabethan train of thought:

   • (Heavenly) God-> Jesus-> Angels-> Saints
     • (Monarchy) King-> Queen-> Princes-> Princesses
       • (Aristocracy) Dukes-> Lords-> Knights
         • (Professionals/Artisans) Lawyer/ lower Churchmen: skilled trades
           • (Unskilled) Labourers
             • Serfs
               • Animal Kingdom