'Othello' Transcends Time

Throughout the history of literature, various writers have aspired to compose texts that are relevant. When referring to a relevant text, the fundamental features that are significant accommodate the ability to transcend time, engage distinctive audiences and by remaining appropriate, reflect the social values and attitudes of the conveyed context. In relation to texts that effectively embody a preserved textual integrity, we can refer to Shakespeare’s prestigious play, ‘Othello’, which has been adapted into a modern interpretation by Tim Blake Nelson, through his film ‘O’. Although the values of each composer’s context have changed as time progressed, many of the themes and issues explored in Shakespeare’s original play have remained universally prevalent in the film ‘O’. Through Shakespeare’s effective application of literary devices, as well as Nelson’s competent utilisation of filmic approaches, the contextual values of each text are manifested its the key themes, particularly in Racism and Jealousy.
Within Shakespeare’s ‘Othello’, the thematic issue of Racism is seemingly overt and it is effectively substantiated in the play through the concept of marginalisation. Shakespeare had composed ‘Othello’ amid the Elizabethan era, a period where the social attitudes of the responsive audience were considerably ethnocentric. The racial tension that had prevailed amongst this distinct audience is evidently reflected in Shakespeare’s play, notably through the portrayal of the protagonist, Othello. It is apparent that Othello retains a degree of difficulty in attempting to gain acceptance from the hegemonic Venetian society in which he exists. He is constantly associated with incorrect misconceptions and stereotypes, a particular instance involving the allusion of Othello as “the thick lips”. This singles out one conspicuous characteristic of Othello’s black heritage and clearly conveys a racial distrust of Othello based on his colour. On the contrary, despite the...