Lebanese University – Faculty of fine arts

Branch 2 – Furn El Shebbak

T2 – Theatre

Othello

Prepared by: Ghida Hkayem

Presented to: DR. Ashtarout Aoun

Shakespeare was an inventor of wonders, a creator of engaging worlds, and an artist who shaped plays
and drew complex characters with depth of personality. Born in the late 16 th century and early 17th. He is
widely regarded as one of the greatest writers in the English language and the world’s pre-eminent
dramatist. The English playwright, poet, and actor breathed air into “Romeo and Juliette”, “Macbeth”,
and “Hamlet”. Almost all of his plays have had a profound impact on literature and theater, exploring
themes of love, tragedy, power, and human nature. “Othello”, a tragedy written by William
Shakespeare believed to be composed around 1603 during the Jacobean era in England. The play tells
the story of a Moorish general, Othello, who falls in love with and marries Desdemona, a Venetian
woman. Iago, Othello's ensign, harbors a deep resentment towards Othello and seeks revenge by
manipulating his emotions and driving him to doubt Desdemona's faithfulness. It has been performed
countless times and remains one of Shakespeare's most popular plays. It has also been adapted into
various films, including Laurence Olivier's 1965 version and Oliver Parker's 1995 adaptation starring
Laurence Fishburne as Othello.

"O, beware, my lord, of jealousy! It is the green-eyed monster", Iago, Othello.

While jealousy and its destructive nature seem a prominent theme in the play, it is not the sole one
interpreted. It does delve into the consequences of unchecked jealousy and how it can lead to
manipulation, violence, and tragedy. The audience is reminded of the destructive potential of intense
emotions and the importance of self-control. Yet the play is crafted in a much-layered way where
various themes were treated, such as racism, and discrimination, the fragility of love and trust,
manipulation, appearance versus reality, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. As for
Shakespeare's language in "Othello", it is rich and poetic, showcasing his mastery of verse. The play is
written primarily in iambic pentameter, a rhythmical pattern consisting of five pairs of unstressed and
stressed syllables per line. The play addresses racial prejudices, cultural differences, and the challenges
faced by individuals who do not fit societal norms, making it relevant to discussions on race and
diversity. From cultural, political, and societal perspectives, the play offers a lens through which to
examine race, gender, power dynamics, and the complexities of human relationships. It continues to be
relevant and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impact on our understanding of these issues.
Therefore, after a thorough analysis of each aspect of the play and through the lens of Desdemona, the
meanings of power and the balance in our world, the breaking of norms and facing racism, political
power, and cultural differences. Therefore, after an examination of different aspects of Othello and
diving into Desdemona’s character questions about the persistence of gender expectations, the
dynamics of power and agency, and the challenges faced by women in navigating societal norms, the
struggle for autonomy and empowerment are raised and analyzed. The story of Desdemona shed light
on the going struggles and aspirations of women in that day, do they still promote the same meaning in
today’s world? And how does the relationship of Othello, Iago, and Desdemona reflect the social and
political aspects of this world?
To begin with, discussing the motives behind writing “Othello”. The exact motivations behind why
Shakespeare wrote "Othello" are not definitively known, as there aren’t direct records of his thoughts
and intentions. However, several factors may have influenced the creation of this play. Various sources
believe that Shakespeare drew inspiration from the Italian novella "Un Capitano Moro" by Cinthio. As a
matter of fact, Shakespeare often adapted existing stories and sources to create his plays, infusing them
with his dramatic style and thematic exploration. The play was written during the Elizabethan era, a time
when exploration and encounters with different cultures were becoming more prevalent. The play

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reflects the cultural attitudes and concerns of the time, including themes of race, identity, and societal
prejudices. Worth mentioning, the early 17th century was a period of intense exploration and
colonization. England was involved in maritime expeditions and colonization efforts, particularly in the
Americas. The encounters with new cultures and the issues of race and cultural differences influenced
the themes and settings of Shakespeare's plays, including "Othello." in addition, in 1603 James, I brought
stability to the country after a period of political uncertainty following the death of Queen Elizabeth I.
His reign marked the beginning of the Jacobean era. As discussions may focus on the representation of
Venice, the attitudes towards race and interracial relationships during Shakespeare's time, and the
influence of early modern society on the play's characters and their motivations. Though we could
question whether Shakespeare wanted to foreshadow this stability with hidden manipulations existing
in that era, showcased by Iago. Still, Shakespeare wrote to entertain and engage his audience, and
"Othello" would have served that purpose. Due to such factors and many others, Shakespeare’s play
“Othello” stands out; Othello, is a black Moorish general in a predominantly white society who breaks
the code of such individuals who do not fit societal norms, making him relevant and somewhat noble
and making the play significant discussing race and diversity in the 17 th century. Also, Othello himself is a
fascinating character, torn between love, jealousy, and insecurities. Iago, the manipulative villain, is one
of Shakespeare's most intriguing and enigmatic antagonists. The depth and complexity of the characters
make them compelling and memorable:
"I kissed thee ere I killed thee. No way but this, killing myself, to die upon a kiss" (spoken by Othello),
and "Excellent wretch! Perdition catch my soul, But I do love thee! And when I love thee not, Chaos is
come again" (spoken by Othello).
From just two verses the reader can extract the conflict that lives within Othello, how much he loved
Desdemona, and how much he regrets his dreadful act. Shakespeare creates multi-dimensional
characters in "Othello" with conflicting emotions and motives. His characters are not one-dimensional
archetypes but rather individuals with complex personalities and moral struggles. They are capable of
both great nobility and disturbing villainy, adding depth and realism to the play. The combination of its
exploration of race with the negative consequences of societal biases based on it and cultural
differences. It sheds light on the destructive effects of prejudice and the pain caused by discrimination,
highlighting the need for empathy and understanding, complex characters, emotional depth, poetic
language, universal themes, and tragic narrative structure makes "Othello" a standout play in the
Shakespearean canon, continuing to captivate and resonate with audiences worldwide. It’s worth noting
that Shakespeare's voice and perspective can be found in various aspects of the play, including the
language, themes, and the portrayal of human emotions. If we were to consider a character that, to
some extent, reflects Shakespeare's voice, it could be argued that it is the character of Iago. Iago is a
complex and manipulative character who possesses a sharp wit, eloquence, and the ability to deceive
others through his words. His soliloquies and speeches showcase Shakespeare's skill in crafting intricate
and compelling dialogue. Through Iago, Shakespeare explores the darker aspects of human nature, the
intricacies of human psychology, and the power of manipulation. It is important to note that attributing
any single character as a direct embodiment of Shakespeare himself would be an oversimplification.
Shakespeare's voice and perspective are more nuanced and encompassing, evident in the entire
tapestry of the play, including the interactions and development of all the characters, the exploration of
themes, and the overall structure and language of "Othello”.
Speaking of which, "Othello" holds significant cultural, political, and societal perspectives and has had a
lasting impact on society. From a cultural perspective, "Othello" raises questions about racial prejudice,

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and explores themes of race, identity, and otherness. In addition, the play also touches upon gender
dynamics and expectations. Desdemona's defiance of societal norms by marrying Othello challenges
traditional gender roles, highlighting the agency and independence of women. Furthermore, "Othello"
provides a portrayal of Venice, which was a powerful maritime republic during Shakespeare's time. The
play showcases the tensions and complexities within Venetian society, including its racial and cultural
dynamics. From a political point of view, as already mentioned it examines the themes of power,
manipulation, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. Characters like Iago demonstrate the
destructive potential of political ambition and manipulation. The play highlights the conflicts arising
from divided loyalties. Othello's position as a general in the Venetian army and his marriage to
Desdemona create tensions and dilemmas between his allegiance to the state and his relationships.
Socially, it continues to be relevant and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impact on our
understanding of these issues as it has been criticized for its portrayal of Othello as a racialized other,
perpetuating stereotypes and reinforcing negative representations of Black characters. Some argue that
the play reflects and perpetuates the colonial mindset of the time, where non-white characters are
eroticized and positioned as inferior to the white majority. Moreover, the play raises questions about
the abuse and manipulation of power. Iago's machinations and the destructive consequences of his
actions serve as a critique of individuals who exploit power for personal gain. This can be seen as a
broader commentary on the corrupting nature of power within society. What’s more, "Othello"
showcases the tragic consequences that arise from miscommunication and lack of trust. Critics argue
that the play highlights the dangers of relying on hearsay and failing to engage in open dialogue,
demonstrating the potential pitfalls of a society built on assumptions and misunderstandings.

The play was adapted throughout the years and it still reaches a variety of meanings and interpretations.
Those productions have provided opportunities for actors to portray complex characters and explore
themes of race and identity on stage. Different interpretations of the play have sparked dialogue and
brought attention to social and cultural issues. One notable example is the play "Desdemona" written by
Paula Vogel. "Desdemona" is a reimagining of "Othello" that explores the perspective of Desdemona,
delving into her thoughts and experiences beyond what is depicted in Shakespeare's play. "Desdemona"
by Paula Vogel offers a distinct perspective and interpretation of the character Desdemona, compared
to Shakespeare's "Othello." While "Othello" focuses primarily on the relationship between Othello and
Desdemona and explores themes of jealousy, race, and betrayal, "Desdemona" delves deeper into
Desdemona's thoughts, experiences, and relationship with the other female characters in the play.

In "Desdemona," Vogel gives voice to Desdemona, allowing her to express her desires, fears, and
challenges in a way that expands her character beyond what is depicted in Shakespeare's play. The play
explores themes of gender, power dynamics, and the agency of women, shedding light on the
experiences and perspectives of female characters in a male-dominated society.
By comparing "Desdemona" to "Othello," one can conclude that Vogel's play offers a feminist
reimagining of the story, focusing on the female characters' agency and relationships. It challenges the
limited representation of women in Shakespeare's play and provides an alternative viewpoint to the
events and circumstances surrounding Desdemona's tragic fate.
"Desdemona" encourages audiences to reexamine the dynamics and power structures within "Othello"
through a contemporary lens, highlighting the complexities and struggles faced by women in
Shakespeare's era and beyond. It contributes to ongoing discussions about gender, identity, and the
reinterpretation of classic works to address modern concerns and perspectives.

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Additionally, there have been numerous adaptations of "Othello" in various forms, including films,
operas, and novels. Notable adaptations include "O" (2001), a contemporary high school setting
adaptation directed by Tim Blake Nelson, and "Othello" (1887), an opera composed by Giuseppe Verdi.
It is worth mentioning that there may be other lesser-known adaptations or works inspired by "Othello"
that have been created by different artists throughout history. The play's enduring themes and
characters continue to inspire reinterpretations and artistic explorations in different mediums.

Deeper into our object of interest, Desdemona. Several aspects of Desdemona's portrayal in "Othello"
have been deemed problematic from a contemporary perspective. It's important to note that these
concerns arise from analyzing the play through a modern lens and considering evolving societal values.
Desdemona is often portrayed as a submissive and passive character, particularly in her relationship
with Othello. She unquestioningly follows societal expectations and norms, which some find problematic
in terms of lacking agency and independence. She falls into the trope of the damsel in distress, relying
on others, particularly male characters, to protect and defend her. This portrayal can perpetuate the
notion of women as vulnerable and in need of male intervention. Some critics argue that Desdemona
lacks significant character development throughout the play. Her role primarily revolves around her
relationships with Othello, Iago, and her eventual tragic fate, leaving limited room for her personal
growth or exploration of her desires and motivations. Her perspective and agency are often
overshadowed by the male characters in the play. Her voice is relatively silenced compared to the more
dominant male voices, further highlighting the power dynamics and gender inequality present in the
society depicted. It's essential to remember that "Othello" was written during a different historical and
cultural context, where societal norms and expectations differed from those of today. However, these
concerns raised by modern audiences reflect the ongoing discussions surrounding gender dynamics,
female agency, and the representation of women in literature. Desdemona's interracial relationship with
Othello raises important discussions about race and identity. In today's diverse and multicultural
societies, Desdemona's experiences as a white woman in love with a person of a different race can
reflect the complexities of interracial relationships, cultural dynamics, and the challenges individuals
face in navigating societal expectations and prejudices. In despair at losing his love, she still defends him
from the consequences of his actions, but he is past seeing what is clear to her and to Shakespeare's
audience: that she has committed herself wholly to loving him; without his love, she cannot live.
Desdemona can be seen as a symbol or archetype that resonates with contemporary audiences
regarding the struggles and aspirations of women in a patriarchal society. Her desire for love, autonomy,
and the pursuit of her happiness can parallel the ongoing fight for gender equality and women's
empowerment in today's world. As for the portrayal of Desdemona, Emilia, and the treatment of
women in the play prompt discussions about female agency, societal expectations, and the
consequences of gender inequality. Desdemona's submissiveness and lack of autonomy have been
critiqued, as well as the patriarchal power dynamics within the play.
Her tragic fate as a victim of domestic violence highlights the ongoing issue of intimate partner violence
in contemporary society. Her story can serve as a reminder of the importance of addressing and
combating such violence, promoting awareness, and providing support for victims.
Also, Desdemona's determination to assert herself and make her own choices can serve as inspiration
and representation for women striving for agency and independence. She prompts discussions about
representation and the importance of diverse and nuanced portrayals of women in literature, media,
and society at large. Her complexity as a character challenges stereotypes and offers opportunities for

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intersectional analyses, allowing for broader conversations about identity, representation, and the
experiences of women from diverse backgrounds.
By examining Desdemona's character in today's world, we can find resonance with ongoing struggles,
highlight important societal issues, and foster discussions about gender, race, agency, and the
complexities of human relationships. Desdemona serves as a lens through which we can explore and
address these issues in a contemporary context encouraging audiences to question and confront
societal norms. These interpretations provide a glimpse of the complex character of Desdemona and
how it is related to our modern-day world.

On a side note, Shakespeare’s play shares thematic and structural similarities with one notable play
"Macbeth." Both "Othello" and "Macbeth" feature tragic heroes who are noble and respected
individuals but ultimately meet tragic ends due to their flaws and the manipulation of others. Othello's
downfall is driven by jealousy, while Macbeth's downfall is driven by ambition.
Also, both plays feature manipulative and cunning villains who play significant roles in tragic events. Iago
in "Othello" and Lady Macbeth in "Macbeth" are known for their ability to manipulate the protagonists
and orchestrate the unfolding of tragedy. Ambition and the lust for power are central themes in both
plays. Othello's position as a general and his desire to maintain his reputation and authority, as well as
Macbeth's hunger for the throne and the lengths he goes to achieve and retain power, are explored in
both plays. Guilt and conscience play significant roles in both plays. Othello and Macbeth experience
deep remorse and are tormented by their actions, highlighting the moral consequences of their choices.
While "Othello" and "Macbeth" share these similarities, it's important to note that each play has its
unique characters, settings, and plot elements. However, their exploration of themes such as ambition,
manipulation, and the tragic fall of the protagonists make them comparable in certain aspects. This
comparison helps us understand the general ambiance of the era in which both plays were written at. As
it helps comprehend the analytic and intellectual thoughts of the writer. Overall, it focuses the lens on
the important features that rise above all others. Not only is that but in the play «May Desdemona Die»
by Raymond Gebara, the title is dedicated to Desdemona, although she doesn't have a direct presence
in the play. This absurdist work explores the treatment of women and highlights how Desdemona
challenged societal norms by marrying someone from a different race. Despite her purity and integrity
amidst a corrupt environment, she ultimately meets her demise. Without any actual presence of her or
a female in the play, Gebara emphasizes the inequality of genders and the mistreatment of women in
the plays and the field of work.
On a broader scale, the play suggests that individuals who defy authority and social norms with genuine
and noble intentions often face extermination. The "exterminator" in Desdemona's case is her lover,
suggesting that those who carry out the act of suppression may not always have malicious motives.
Shakespeare may be conveying that there are often manipulators behind political officials, revealing that
in our world, loyalty, purity, and good intentions are not always sufficient and can lead to tragic
outcomes.

To conclude, Shakespeare presents characters with complex moral dilemmas in "Othello." The play
explores the gray areas of human behavior and questions notions of good and evil. It challenges the
audience's moral judgments, inviting reflection on the complexities of human nature.
The messages conveyed in "Othello" include the destructive nature of jealousy, the need for empathy
and understanding, the dangers of prejudice, and the consequences of betrayal. The play invites
introspection and critical examination of one's own emotions, biases, and moral compass, urging the

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audience to reflect on the complexities of the human condition. As for Desdemona, she embodies
purity, both in her actions and her love for Othello. Her innocence contrasts the corruption and deceit
surrounding her, highlighting the tragic consequences of the play's events. Her mistreatment by others,
including Othello's doubts and Iago's manipulation, reflects the destructive power of racism and its
destructive impact on individuals, highlighting the destructive forces at work in the play. Still, in our
modern-day world, women struggle to find a place without judgment or gender oppression. Many
organizations, activists, and writers aim to find a path to her triumph. After a thorough analysis of the
play through all its dimensions, it is fair to say, on a personal level, that the triangular relation between
Othello, Iago, and Desdemona is a relation found in our societies, one which is composed of an official
fairly good yet easy manipulated (by which he loses all his good motives) and one that struggles to defy
norms and social dogma, to break the cycle. "Othello" has had a profound impact on subsequent
literature and drama. Its exploration of themes has influenced numerous works across various genres
and continues to inspire contemporary storytelling. It continues to be relevant and thought-provoking,
leaving a lasting impact on our understanding of these issues.

A question remains, will there ever be a time when manipulation, evil thoughts, and oppression find an
end in this world? While addressing subjects such as good or bad, what is truly the definition, scale, or
standard of good and bad?

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References:
- Gebara Raymond, May Desdemona Die, 1970, book
- Dr. Sanjay Kumar Sinha, Shakespeare’s Othello – A Critical Analysis, PDF.
- Rahim Abdur, premier university, Shakespeare’s Othello – A Critical Analysis, May 2019, PDF.
- Bassir Iman Sayed, Velayat University, Othello: A Review of its Faults and Problems, April 2016,
PDF.
- Durratul Hikmah, Astutik, Nurul Jadid, Paiton University, THE DEPICTION OF WOMAN’S
ROLES IN SHAKESPEARE’S OTHELLO, June 30th, 2022.
- David Bevigton, Article history, Othello by Shakespeare, April 2023, Britannica:
Othello | Summary & Characters | Britannica

- Othello: Full Play Analysis | SparkNotes