1) The document provides historical context about Othello, noting that it was written in 1604 and discusses the diversity of Venice as well as the term "Moor" referring to dark-skinned people from North Africa. 2) It summarizes the plot so far, that Othello, a respected general and Moor, has secretly married Desdemona, the daughter of Venetian senator Brabantio, angering both her father and Roderigo who had a crush on her. 3) Iago is also upset because Othello did not give him the position of lieutenant that he wanted. In today's scene, Roderigo and Iago discuss their anger and wake B

1. Starting Othello

2. Chronology 1555 – first slaves from Africa brought to England 1595 – Romeo and Juliet written 1604 – Othello written 1607 – English colonize Jamestown, Virginia Early 1600s – many English ships attacked by Barbary pirates from Africa; beginning of major slave trade in Britain

3. Othello and Desdemona Venice, Italy – major trading city with a lot of diversity (race and religion) Othello – respected General, older, black or “Moor” Desdemona – daughter of the Venetian Senator Brabantio, young, white Before the play opens, the two have secretly gotten married.

4. The Term “Moor” From the Greek word “mauros” meaning “black or dark” Moreno in Spanish – brunette, dark skinned During Middle Ages and 17th Century, Moor referred to dark-skinned people from North African and Arab countries Can be used in a factual or racist way

5. Who is Upset? Brabantio is upset because his daughter got married 1) secretly and 2) to a black man. Roderigo is upset because he has a crush on Desdemona, but she just married someone else. Iago is mad because Othello gave Cassio the job as his lieutenant that Iago wanted for himself.

6. Today’s Scene Roderigo and Iago talk about how they are upset with Othello for the lost job and secret marriage. Roderigo and Iago wake up Brabantio to tell him the news: his daughter has married Othello.