Othello shakespeare context

What was Shakespeare at when Othello was written and what had he already done

He was at the height of his career and had already written many of his famous plays, including comedies and histories, and was now focused on writing his major tragedies

Where were his plays performed and who were the audience

Performed at the Globe theatre to a mix of classes - from nobles to commoners - this influenced how he wrote his plays, mixing high drama with accessible language and humour

How were women expected to act in Shakespearean times and how is this reflected in Othello

They were expected to be subservient to men - Desdemona is portrayed as the loyal and obedient wife, but her independence in marrying Othello without her father’s approval challenges these norms - play explores the dangers of patriarchal control

What would the audience at the time likely be fascinated by

Othello’s “otherness” as a moor and the exotic locations of Venice and Cyprus