Othello Critical Lens Essay

Critical Lenses- Shakespeare’s Othello

Sociological critical analysis is the relationship between literature and society. Time and place will influence the story in various ways. As a result, the stories will reflect the sociological structure that produced them.

Shakespeare’s Othello was written during the early 1600s. During this period in time, plays were performed only by men, and the audience was predominantly male as well. The audience mainly consisted of the upper class, as well as the middle class. Since the play was written in the early 1600s, there were different standards than there are today. Sociological critical analysis states Shakespeare unconsciously reflected all of this when he was writing Othello.

In act 5, scene 2 of Othello, both Iago and Othello acted out of jealousy, …show more content…
For Shakespeare, whom was a mere playwright, it would be a downright insult if he were to act smarter than the nobles and attempt to teach them about equality and justice. As a result, Shakespeare uses Othello to talk about how jealousy is the root of all problems without having to directly say it. In act 5, scene 2, Iago’s plan failed and almost everyone dies. Shakespeare uses this to prove how jealousy can only lead to one’s ultimate demise. Shakespeare does not directly state it, but it can be implied, More fell than anguish, hunger, or the sea, Look on the tragic loading of this bed. This is thy work.” (5.2.385) Lastly, according Marxist.com, the society shakespeare lived in influenced the way each character acted in the play. For example, during the 1600s, it was honourable for one to commit suicide to save face. Othello does this shortly after he had learned what Iago did, (Othello had stabbed himself) “This did I fear, but thought he had no weapon, For he was great of heart.” (5.2.378). If it were today’s society, Othello would have likely chickened out

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