Othello and Race: Exploring Racial Constructs and Power in Shakespeare's World

The video explores the theme of race in Shakespeare's play Othello, discussing how race is portrayed and understood in the context of the early modern period. It questions the use of modern terms like 'race' and 'racism' in analyzing the play, given their anachronistic nature. The video defines race as a system of power, not just human difference, and examines how Shakespeare's use of race relates to social hierarchies and nobility. It also highlights England's colonial history and its impact on racial narratives.

What is a central theme in Shakespeare's play Othello?

• The exploration of race and racial dynamics

• The conflict between love and duty

• The struggle for political power

• The journey of self-discovery

According to Noemi and DIA, how is race defined?

• As a biological difference

• As a cultural tradition

• As a historical artifact

• As a system of power falsely packaged as knowledge

In Shakespeare's plays, what does the term 'race' often refer to?

• Economic status

• Religious beliefs

• Types of plants or animals

• Political affiliations

How does Shakespeare link nobility with nature in his plays?

• By equating nobility with celestial bodies

• By describing noble characters as divine beings

• By associating noble bloodlines with superior breeds of horses

• By comparing noble families to rare gemstones

What is implied by the use of race in Shakespeare's works?

• A chaotic social structure

• An equal society

• A random distribution of power

• A natural order of social hierarchy

What does the term 'race' justify in the context of Shakespeare's plays?

• The architectural styles of the era

• The religious practices of characters

• The economic policies of the time

• The representation and treatment of social groups

What historical context is often omitted when discussing race in Shakespeare's works?

• The religious conflicts of the time

• The economic prosperity of the era

• The technological advancements of the period

• England's participation in colonialism and slavery