Othello: Context

This 27-slide lesson explores the context of Shakespeare’s ‘Othello’.

In the lesson, students learn about Shakespeare and his sources for the play; why the Venetian setting is significant; some background to the Venetian-Ottoman conflicts; and the various historical connotations of the term ‘Moor’.

We look at various images from ‘Othello’ - posters and stills from notable productions - to consider what the play might be about. The play’s genre as a tragedy is discussed, as are its key themes and the crucial recurring image of ‘jealousy’.

Important (and high-level) vocabulary is also outlined.

Questions, tasks, and discussion points are included for students. A research task/homework is featured at the end of the lesson.

This lesson is an ideal introduction for GCSE or A level study of the text.

PowerPoint saved as PDF.