Sixteenth century England was the first time Muslims began openly living in England occupying jobs such as diplomats,merchants,translators,musicians,servants and prostitutes. Muslims began arriving in London due to Queen Elizabeth's isolation from Catholic Europe this meant she could create political and commercial alliances with Islamic states. English people had limited understanding in regards to the culture of Muslims and couldn't accept Islam as a religious belief. Some Muslims chose to convert to Christianity. The Queens alliances with different empires brought more elite Muslims to London.
Tuesday, 22 March 2016
Saturday, 6 February 2016
Othello Act 1 scene 3
How does the Duke and senators speak of Othello?
'valiant moor'
'valiant Othello'
'I think this tale would win my daughter too'
How does Brabantio speak of his daughter?
'for your sake jewel'
'dead?' Ay to me''
What do we learn about views towards foreigners/moors?
Racist society even Desdemona refers to him as a moor.
What is Ironic about Othello's Claim 'rude am I in my speech'.?
He says he can't speak well but then speaks eloquently.
What is startling about Othello's decision to let Desdemona speak on his behalf?
In a patriarchal society this would have been viewed as quite shocking. Women could speak in court but for a man in such a high position to get a woman to speak on his behalf it makes him appear vulnerable.
What stories does Othello tell in his speech to the senate?
He tells stories of a world unfamiliar to Venetians. He also mentioned 'men whose head do grow beneath their shoulders.' Which we know not to be true.
Why do the senators listen to Desdemona and what does she persuade them to do?
They listen to Desdemona because Othello has requested them too and both her father and husband are of high status. She persuades them to let her go with Othello to Cyprus.
What praise (though simultaneously racist comment)does the duke offer Othello?
That he is more white than black. 'your son in law is far more fair than black'
What is significant about the rhyming couplet used by Brabantio ?
It stands out to the audience as the last line doesn't rhyme showing he wants them to get back on track with the court trial.
What is Ironic about Othello's retort and his subsequent description of Iago?
He says 'my life upon her faith' this is foreshadowing because when he looses faith in her it ends in death. He also calls Iago 'honest' which is ironic since he is betraying Iago.
Why is Roderigo so Distruaght and how and why does Iago convince him to keep going?
Roderigo is distraught after seeing everything work out between Othello and Desdemona and Iago convinces him too keep going by telling him he is being to emotional and that he could fix everything if Roderigo pays him. Men weren't expected to be emotional in that society and Iago uses this to manipulate him.
Focus on Iago's Soliloquy what reasons does he give for wanting revenge against Othello?
He views him as gullible and Is still angry that Cassio was promoted as opposed to him.
'valiant moor'
'valiant Othello'
'I think this tale would win my daughter too'
How does Brabantio speak of his daughter?
'for your sake jewel'
'dead?' Ay to me''
What do we learn about views towards foreigners/moors?
Racist society even Desdemona refers to him as a moor.
What is Ironic about Othello's Claim 'rude am I in my speech'.?
He says he can't speak well but then speaks eloquently.
What is startling about Othello's decision to let Desdemona speak on his behalf?
In a patriarchal society this would have been viewed as quite shocking. Women could speak in court but for a man in such a high position to get a woman to speak on his behalf it makes him appear vulnerable.
What stories does Othello tell in his speech to the senate?
He tells stories of a world unfamiliar to Venetians. He also mentioned 'men whose head do grow beneath their shoulders.' Which we know not to be true.
Why do the senators listen to Desdemona and what does she persuade them to do?
They listen to Desdemona because Othello has requested them too and both her father and husband are of high status. She persuades them to let her go with Othello to Cyprus.
What praise (though simultaneously racist comment)does the duke offer Othello?
That he is more white than black. 'your son in law is far more fair than black'
What is significant about the rhyming couplet used by Brabantio ?
It stands out to the audience as the last line doesn't rhyme showing he wants them to get back on track with the court trial.
What is Ironic about Othello's retort and his subsequent description of Iago?
He says 'my life upon her faith' this is foreshadowing because when he looses faith in her it ends in death. He also calls Iago 'honest' which is ironic since he is betraying Iago.
Why is Roderigo so Distruaght and how and why does Iago convince him to keep going?
Roderigo is distraught after seeing everything work out between Othello and Desdemona and Iago convinces him too keep going by telling him he is being to emotional and that he could fix everything if Roderigo pays him. Men weren't expected to be emotional in that society and Iago uses this to manipulate him.
Focus on Iago's Soliloquy what reasons does he give for wanting revenge against Othello?
He views him as gullible and Is still angry that Cassio was promoted as opposed to him.
Thursday, 4 February 2016
Othello Act 1 scene 2
Our thoughts on Othello after act 1 scene 2.
Calm - he avoids conflict and violence when possible. 'tis better as it is'
Respected
Authoritative
Noble position 'my services which I have done the Seigniory shall out tongue his complaints'
Honourable
How does Othello respond to Iago's baiting?
Responds obediently and willingly because he trusts Iago and values his opinion.
How does Brabantio react upon meeting Othello?
He acts extremely angry 'thou foul theif''. This contrasts with Othellos laid back reaction.
How does Othello react to Brabantios Charges?
Passively
Confidently
Calmly
Pleads his case well but asks Desdemona to speak on his behalf.
Calm - he avoids conflict and violence when possible. 'tis better as it is'
Respected
Authoritative
Noble position 'my services which I have done the Seigniory shall out tongue his complaints'
Honourable
How does Othello respond to Iago's baiting?
Responds obediently and willingly because he trusts Iago and values his opinion.
How does Brabantio react upon meeting Othello?
He acts extremely angry 'thou foul theif''. This contrasts with Othellos laid back reaction.
How does Othello react to Brabantios Charges?
Passively
Confidently
Calmly
Pleads his case well but asks Desdemona to speak on his behalf.
Act 1 scene 1 questions
Thoughts on Othello
- 'epithets of war' = Egotistical
- Not loyal to Iago as he promotes Cassio instead even though Iago is more experienced. Cassio has 'Never set a squadron in the field.
-Shallow = we are told he has married Desdemona for sex and wealth.
Why do we believe Iago?
Because Roderigo believes him so easily.
Why does Brabantio react the way he does?
Because of the racist views held by society concerning interracial marriage. Also because Desdemona has disobeyed him and in a patriarchal society this would have been frowned upon. He also cant understand her motives behind being with Othello because of his race so much so he thinks she's been drugged or been a victim to magic.
Whats wrong with Cassio?
Only problem is that he's too attractive 'damned in a fair wife'
Lack of war experience 'Never set a squadron in the field'.
Why/how is Iago the perfect venetian man?
He's had experience in war unlike Cassio.
He's white in a racist society.
How does Brabantio believe Othello won Desdemona?
Magic.
Charms.
Drugs.
Is there anything in his words and actions to make us doubt Iago's honesty?
Topic shifts.
- 'epithets of war' = Egotistical
- Not loyal to Iago as he promotes Cassio instead even though Iago is more experienced. Cassio has 'Never set a squadron in the field.
-Shallow = we are told he has married Desdemona for sex and wealth.
Why do we believe Iago?
Because Roderigo believes him so easily.
Why does Brabantio react the way he does?
Because of the racist views held by society concerning interracial marriage. Also because Desdemona has disobeyed him and in a patriarchal society this would have been frowned upon. He also cant understand her motives behind being with Othello because of his race so much so he thinks she's been drugged or been a victim to magic.
Whats wrong with Cassio?
Only problem is that he's too attractive 'damned in a fair wife'
Lack of war experience 'Never set a squadron in the field'.
Why/how is Iago the perfect venetian man?
He's had experience in war unlike Cassio.
He's white in a racist society.
How does Brabantio believe Othello won Desdemona?
Magic.
Charms.
Drugs.
Is there anything in his words and actions to make us doubt Iago's honesty?
Topic shifts.
Sunday, 31 January 2016
Othello Act 1 Scene 1
1. Venice is presented in the first act as a society orientated around conflict whether its the Venice Vs Cyprus conflict or the conflict between the characters themselves. The interactions change dependent on the person because Othello is a black man living in a racist society he is treated differently but he is also treated differently because of his status as a general. Although Iagos status is lower than Othellos he is often treated better by his counterparts because he is white.The society is also patriarchal so therefore Desdemona is treated differently when compared to male characters.
2. In Act 1 scene 1 Iago appears quite trustworthy and honest and he seems to be rightfully angry at Othello as far as the audience know Iago has always been loyal to Othello and he has had more experience than Cassio but yet Cassio is chosen to fulfil a more important role. However the audience starts to see how disloyal Iago really is when he goes behind Othellos back and the audience begins to question Iagos opinions when they see how honourable Othello is. Iago and Roderigo are friends but Iago manipulates him and its implied there could be something more between them.
3. Othellos speaks gently whereas Iagos speaks more aggressively as he is more manipulative. Iago often speaks vaguely so he doesn't look as manipulative as he really is
2. In Act 1 scene 1 Iago appears quite trustworthy and honest and he seems to be rightfully angry at Othello as far as the audience know Iago has always been loyal to Othello and he has had more experience than Cassio but yet Cassio is chosen to fulfil a more important role. However the audience starts to see how disloyal Iago really is when he goes behind Othellos back and the audience begins to question Iagos opinions when they see how honourable Othello is. Iago and Roderigo are friends but Iago manipulates him and its implied there could be something more between them.
3. Othellos speaks gently whereas Iagos speaks more aggressively as he is more manipulative. Iago often speaks vaguely so he doesn't look as manipulative as he really is
Friday, 15 January 2016
Othello DVD
Basic plot
Why do Iago and Roderigo wake Brabantio?
They wake him up to tell him that his daughter Desdemona has married Othello.
How does Brabantio believe Othello ‘won’ his daughter, Desdemona?
Charms/enchantment/witchcraft.
How does Othello believe he ‘won’ Desdemona?
He wooed her and told her stories of his life. He gets her to defend this statement.
What two reasons are there for Othello appearing before the senate?
His job '(he is a general)- going to Cyprus - Turkish invasion.
To defend his relationship with Desdemona that is being scrutinised.
What do we learn about Othello’s past?
That he was a slave.
What terms are used to describe Othello whilst in front of the senate?
'Black ram' 'the moor'
What is significant about Brabantio’s rhyming couplet “Look to her, Moor, if thou hast eyes to
see. She has deceived her father, and may thee.”?
It makes it easier for Othello to believe she is deceitful later in the play as she has deceived her father already.
Can you find an example of dramatic irony in Othello’s retort?
He calls Iago 'honest Iago' this is dramatic irony as he is betraying Othello and the audience is aware of this but Othello is not.
What does Iago persuade Roderigo to do?
Follow them to Cyprus
What do we learn from Iago’s soliloquy?
That he dislikes Othello strongly and is plotting his downfall.
Why do Iago and Roderigo wake Brabantio?
They wake him up to tell him that his daughter Desdemona has married Othello.
How does Brabantio believe Othello ‘won’ his daughter, Desdemona?
Charms/enchantment/witchcraft.
How does Othello believe he ‘won’ Desdemona?
He wooed her and told her stories of his life. He gets her to defend this statement.
What two reasons are there for Othello appearing before the senate?
His job '(he is a general)- going to Cyprus - Turkish invasion.
To defend his relationship with Desdemona that is being scrutinised.
What do we learn about Othello’s past?
That he was a slave.
What terms are used to describe Othello whilst in front of the senate?
'Black ram' 'the moor'
What is significant about Brabantio’s rhyming couplet “Look to her, Moor, if thou hast eyes to
see. She has deceived her father, and may thee.”?
It makes it easier for Othello to believe she is deceitful later in the play as she has deceived her father already.
Can you find an example of dramatic irony in Othello’s retort?
He calls Iago 'honest Iago' this is dramatic irony as he is betraying Othello and the audience is aware of this but Othello is not.
What does Iago persuade Roderigo to do?
Follow them to Cyprus
What do we learn from Iago’s soliloquy?
That he dislikes Othello strongly and is plotting his downfall.
Wednesday, 6 January 2016
Classical tragedy
A classical tragedy is a serious drama in which a the protagonist or hero meets with disaster either due to personal flaws or circumstance.
Tragedy originated in ancient Greece. It was influenced by other genres but originated in the works of Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides. Thespis traditionally was the first person to represent a character rather than speaking as himself in a play in 534 BC . Choerilus, wrote approximatley one hundred and sixty tragedies. Pratinas of Philus author of fifty works. Their titles are their only real record., satyr plays were presented alongside tragedies at this time.
Aristotle was a Greek philosopher and scientist born circa 384 B.C. He enrolled in Plato's academy at the age of 17 and was taught by Plato. He went on to teach Alexander The Great. His work became basis for western education. He tried to define the way tragedy works as a genre.
Poetics was written by Aristotle in 335 BC. The aim of tragedy, Aristotle writes, is to bring about a "catharsis" of the spectator and to make them feel sensations of pity and fear, and to purge them of these emotions so that they leave the theater feeling cleansed, with a heightened understanding of gods and men.
6 components of tragedy according to Aristotle. 1) Plot2) Character 3) Diction - the actual words spoken by the characters.
4)Reasoning - case being staged and opinions being expressed by characters.
5)Spectacle
6) Lyric Poetry (personal response to experience presented on stage)
Aristotle thought tragedies should purge pity and fear - an emotional release.
Aristotle thought can not be either all good or all bad they must be someone who the audience can relate too. Heros are usually the protagonists in tragedies the disastrous result that makes it a tragedy is usually bought about because of the tragic hero making a mistake bought on by a flaw in their character this often also results in their death.
Elements/ingredients of Classical tradgedyHamartia: The tragic hero must make a mistake, the hero must also be someone the audience can identify with. Kings make good subject matter because in a human society they have the top position in society.A flaw in the heros character leads to them making a mistake that in some way leads to their death.
Tragic Flaw: A flaw/trait that ultimately leads to the downfall of the character . It is often pride (hubris)
Hubris: Over confidence or pride. Which often leads to the hero ignoring significant warnings and breaking moral codes.
Peripeteia: a reversal of circumstances or turning point.
Anagnorisis: The moment in a play when a character makes a critical discovery.(recognition)
Catharisis: The purification of emotions.
Tragedy originated in ancient Greece. It was influenced by other genres but originated in the works of Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides. Thespis traditionally was the first person to represent a character rather than speaking as himself in a play in 534 BC . Choerilus, wrote approximatley one hundred and sixty tragedies. Pratinas of Philus author of fifty works. Their titles are their only real record., satyr plays were presented alongside tragedies at this time.
Aristotle was a Greek philosopher and scientist born circa 384 B.C. He enrolled in Plato's academy at the age of 17 and was taught by Plato. He went on to teach Alexander The Great. His work became basis for western education. He tried to define the way tragedy works as a genre.
Poetics was written by Aristotle in 335 BC. The aim of tragedy, Aristotle writes, is to bring about a "catharsis" of the spectator and to make them feel sensations of pity and fear, and to purge them of these emotions so that they leave the theater feeling cleansed, with a heightened understanding of gods and men.
6 components of tragedy according to Aristotle. 1) Plot2) Character 3) Diction - the actual words spoken by the characters.
4)Reasoning - case being staged and opinions being expressed by characters.
5)Spectacle
6) Lyric Poetry (personal response to experience presented on stage)
Aristotle thought tragedies should purge pity and fear - an emotional release.
Aristotle thought can not be either all good or all bad they must be someone who the audience can relate too. Heros are usually the protagonists in tragedies the disastrous result that makes it a tragedy is usually bought about because of the tragic hero making a mistake bought on by a flaw in their character this often also results in their death.
Elements/ingredients of Classical tradgedyHamartia: The tragic hero must make a mistake, the hero must also be someone the audience can identify with. Kings make good subject matter because in a human society they have the top position in society.A flaw in the heros character leads to them making a mistake that in some way leads to their death.
Tragic Flaw: A flaw/trait that ultimately leads to the downfall of the character . It is often pride (hubris)
Hubris: Over confidence or pride. Which often leads to the hero ignoring significant warnings and breaking moral codes.
Peripeteia: a reversal of circumstances or turning point.
Anagnorisis: The moment in a play when a character makes a critical discovery.(recognition)
Catharisis: The purification of emotions.
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