1. Ally Franklin
CI 350
Othello Webquest
Introduction:
Othello is one of Shakespeare’s better known plays- it has been reprinted,
recreated, and reimagined many times since its origin. Othello tells a tale of
politics, romance, and racism set in Venice, Italy.
Task:
For this Webquest, you will further familiarize yourself with Othello and make
modern-day connections. You will conduct research, practice close reading, and
answer questions thoroughly and correctly.
Process:
First, read this overview of the play in case you have forgotten any of the details.
http://www.shmoop.com/othello/summary.html
Next, look through these sources to help you answer some of the upcoming
questions.

2. http://wompdestroyed.wordpress.com/2013/08/23/iagos-tactics/
http://wompdestroyed.wordpress.com/2013/09/22/jealousy-in-othello/
http://www.denverpost.com/theater/ci_14759303
http://www.universalteacher.org.uk/shakespeare/othello1.htm
After you have read these, answer the following questions:
1. What are some of the themes in Othello? List at least 5.
2. Which of the themes are most relevant to modern-day people and life?
3. What are some symbols within the play?
4. What is the significance of the handkerchief? How does it completely
overthrow Othello and Desdemona?
5. Do you find Iago likeable? Although he is the villain, his wit and
intelligence make up arguably the most important parts of the play. Would
the play be better or worse with a more traditional villain?
6. Is Othello likeable? As the hero, he is somewhat of a violent man. Is he a
hero or more of an anti-hero?
7. Is the racism featured within the play obvious or subtle?
Evaluation:

3. In order to get full credit for the assignment, you must answer each aspect of each
question and provide examples as requested. Many of these questions are based on
opinion, and therefore are not right or wrong as long as you adequately justify your
position.
Conclusion:
This Webquest allowed you to look closer at the text of Othello, as well as form
opinions about the play and its characters. Hopefully, you understand the play a
little better now and enjoy it a little more.
Standards:
RLA.O.10.1.7
Interpret and explain the author’s choice of literary devices used to construct
meaning and define the author’s/reader’s purpose: symbolism, imagery, irony,
satire, cadence, scansion, flashback, foreshadowing, Freytag’s pyramid
(exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, catastrophe, denouement)
RLA.O.10.1.8
Interpret and explain the relationships of the literary elements (e.g., setting, plot, ,
point of view, theme, conflict, characterization, voice, tone, mood) within specific
genres.