Context in Othello

Question 1

where is the beginning of the play set?

Answer 1

Venice - late 16th century

Question 2

what was Venices reputation in the late 16th century?

Answer 2

affluent + successful, cosmopoltan, reputation for sexual mortality

in many renaissence texts, cyprus was a place for love affairs, secrets, lustful passions and bloody revenge

Question 3

symbolism of cyprus

Answer 3

it represents a move from the civilized order of Venice to a place of chaos and war, which creates a perfect environment for Iago’s evil schemes.

symbolised as the island of love - ironic

Question 4

what is the symbolism in the switch of locations - from venice to cyprus?

Answer 4

symbolises a shift from order to chaos, from the public world of law to the private world of passion and jealousy, making the characters vulnerable to Iago’s manipulation