Date: 26th February

Othello - More than just the Moor

Penni Wilson

Shakespeare wrote his play “Othello” over four hundred years ago, yet the world’s fascination with the character has not diminished. It is a tragedy as relevant today, with its themes of racism, hatred and betrayal, as it was then.
“Othello” continues to be successful as a play (of course), but to date it has also inspired two operas, three ballets and at least twenty-seven films. But who was Othello? What is it about him that fascinates us so much? Is he a murderer - a wife killer - or a victim? What happened to the deep love he felt for Desdemona? Did he actually exist or did Shakespeare simply make him up? If so, why?
This lecture will try to make some sense of it all and offers an insight into the world of “Othello”. It contains live readings, video recordings, music and interviews.