Essay | The Role of Race in "Othello"

Othello was a "Moor" from northern Africa who, through hard work, bravery and courageous fighting, became the general of the Venetian army. This accomplishment was significant because it wasn't a position that was offered to Black men in medieval times. Nevertheless, he was able to prove himself, and he became a well-respected, prominent figure in Venice and a great necessity to the Venetians. However, even though he has great power in the city, to some people, he is still considered to be "just a Moor." Many derogatory words and phrases were used by other characters to describe Othello. Thus, race played a significant role in the play.

Othello was the only character of African descent in the play, which made him automatically different from the other characters. The Venetians emphasized this difference in the way they spoke to him. Every character in the play referred to Othello as "the Moor"...
(read more)