Blog Post 18 - Quote-Response

Othello by William Shakespeare, edited by David Bevington

I have never read Othello, so this is a new experience for me.  Once I got past the initial act, I was able to read it with less difficulty.  Written in 1604, the English language was much different then it is today.  Basically, what I surmised in the first act was that there was a counsel meeting in order for Desdemona to marry Othello, a black man of poor background.  Desdemona was born to a wealthy family, in order for her to be with a man from a different social class she was to give up all rights to her families wealth.  The fact that he is black has also got to be of great concern considering this was in the 1600's.  Brabantio, Desdemona's father and senator, needed to know if Othello had manipulated his daughter into being in love. 

            That thou hast practiced on her with foul charms, abused her
            delicate youth with drugs and minerals  that weaken motion. 
            I'll have't disputed on; tis probable and palpable to thinking.
            (Shakespeare 947).

Blessings were given by the Duke to Brabantio so Othello and Desdemona could be together, "Your son-in-law is far more fair than black" (Shakespeare 957).