- What do we learn about views towards foreigners/moors?
We learn that foreigners/moors are seen as outcasts, something 'different' to white people as they are stereotypically seen to be an object of curiosity. This is shown through Othello's words 'still questioned me the story of my life.' This part of the play shows that the views of coloured people included an air of curiosity, assuming that their lives were much more adventurous and different than their own. The white characters look down on the coloured people even when it is not obvious, but a more subtle approach to racism. This is presented through the use of stereotypes such as the idea that they possess supernatural abilities. 'Corrupted by spells and medicines bought of mountebanks.' Brabantio is suggesting that Othello has bewitched Desdemona into loving him, which supports the stereotype of black people being able in the art of witchcraft. This tells us that white people within this era presume that black people can conjure this ability just because of their skin colour.
- What is ironic about Othello's claim that 'rude am I in my speech?'
the irony within Othello's speech is that although he tries to suggest that he does not speak eloquently, he defies this and ends up speaking with much presence that the Duke can't deny his rights to marry Desdemona. The Duke states 'I think this tale would win my daughter too.' Which enhances the irony because not only did Othello 'woo' Desdemona with the stories about his life, but he also 'wooed' The Duke by telling him how he and Desdemona came to be in love. Meaning that Othello, despite the fact that he started off by saying he is not as fluent in his speech as the Florentines, has won the Duke's approval because of his speech.
- What is startling about Othello's decision to let Desdemona speak on his behalf?
Within this era, it would be unheard of to let a woman speak on the behalf of her husband. So because Othello suggests that Desdemona speaks on their behalf to ensure the safety of him and their marriage, is startling because the stake is high if the Duke is not won over. To leave this responsibility in a woman's hand in this period of time is a rarity which is what makes the whole situation unique. Also, Othello's trust and reliability on his wife is startling because it is the man who is supposed to speak for himself and his wife in this patriarchal society. His confidence in his wife is shown through 'Here comes the lady; let her witness it.' His trust in her is not common therefore making the decision to let her speak makes the situation increasingly rare.
- Using the thinking question above, what 'stories' does Othello tell in his speech to the senate?
Othello is speaking about his adventures that he has lived through in the past. These are the ones that lured Desdemona into falling in love with him. The fact that he has these stories plays on the stereotype that black people lived exotically and did things that white people would find extraordinary or wouldn't do. he also lived through slavery 'And sold to slavery; of my redemption thence, and portance in my travels' history' this shows he was not in control of his own life at one point and this enticed Desdemona to fall further in love with him as she felt empathetic towards his life and his stories.
