Othello and Race: Exploring the Matrix of Identity

The transcript explores the symbolic and linguistic associations of whiteness with purity and blackness with sin, tracing these ideas back to medieval morality plays. It discusses how these plays used blackness to signify moral corruption, influencing audience perceptions in Shakespeare's time. The concept of a 'diabolical script of blackness' is introduced, highlighting the pre-existing biases audiences held. The transcript also touches on Judith Butler's philosophy of identity performance, emphasizing how racial and gender identities were performed and reinforced on stage, shaping societal expectations and classifications.

What symbolic associations does whiteness have according to the text?

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Discuss the implications of colorism as presented in the text.

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In what ways does the text suggest that the audience's expectations influence the portrayal of black characters?

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How does the metaphor of blackness relate to moral corruption in medieval morality plays?

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What role does Judith Butler's philosophy play in understanding identity performance on stage?

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