Jun 19 2007
Who holds power at the beginning of the play?
What is the basis of that power?
Who is privileged and who is subordinated?
In what ways does Othello’s position create disruption in the traditional power structures?
What is the relationship between language and power?
Jun 19 2007
How is Desdemona’s relationship with her father explored with in the opening Act?
To what extent are the female characters stereotyped: Desdemona the idealised wife, Emilia the nagging wife and Bianca the doting mistress?
Why does the text focus on such powerless stereotypes?
How is female sexuality explored in the play?
What sexual identities are offered to the female characters
What sexual freedom is given to the make characters?
What social structures are presented to maintain patriarchal control?
What happens to women when they cross or a suspected of crossing societal expectations of submission and faithfulness?
To what extent must Desdemona and Emelia both die in order for patriarchal control to be restored?
Jun 04 2007
She’s gone, I am abus’d; and my relief
Must be to loathe her. O curse of marriage!
That we can call these delicate creatures ours,
And not their appetites. I had rather to be a taod,
And live upon the vapour of a dungeon,
Than keep a corner in the thing I love
For others’ uses.
Othello’s state of mind is of one who is driven mad with jealousy.
He has been manipulated into thinking Desdemona is unfaithful and takes a perverted pleasure in hating her. Note the way his language changes – it becomes coarse and bestial. His language becomes similar to Iago’s as he becomes infected by his lies and manipulation. Find examples of jealousy in the text – describe the language and imagery and what is symbolises. What is the effect of Shakespeare’s language?
Jun 04 2007
Taking the persona of Desdemona or Cassio, compose a description of Othello, the warrior, including his physical features, personality and what he says and does.Your response should be written by the character in the form of a diary entry just after Othello has arrived in Cyprus (Act II).
