Shakespeare reveals a different face to different cultures and different people at different times. His works are emotional, hilarious, at times disturbing and his stories and his characters contain qualities that audiences and readers identify with. Shakespeare’s influence everywhere you look and is still very relevant in today’s world. what makes Shakespeare’s work so interesting is that he doesn’t provide easy answers. He does not tell us what to think; he teaches us how to think.
In studying the questions and scenarios Shakespeare created in his plays we question our own assumptions and beliefs, clarify our own thoughts, and become better thinkers. The questions of identity, race, loyalty, violence, and gender raised by Shakespeare’s plays continue to be debated in today’s culture… People do terrible things to achieve their ambition (as did Macbeth). Murders are committed (see the tragedies such as Julius Caesar) and prejudice and inequality continue to thrive as they did in the life of Othello. Shakespeare can offer practical assistance in our everyday lives.Teaching rhetorical devices through Shakespeare’s plays not only provides an introduction to the most compelling characters and plots in English literature, but also equips us with the skills we will need to handle a range of everyday situations, from negotiating with our parents to asking a favour of a friend.
Othello is a very well-known Shakespearian play and is still relevant to today’s audiences. Although many aspects of people’s lives have changed, the issues in Othello are still considered applicable and people are able to relate to them. The plot portrays attitudes and methods of modern day society and tells us what happens when the characters embark on a trail of jealousy and revenge, and how it can easily be taken overboard. The themes of betrayal, jealousy, revenge, discrimination and racism are still relatable. Betrayal is the key issue related with the play and defines the term ‘tragedy’.
Betrayal is portrayed in “Othello” from the very beginning when- Iago and Roderigo are discussing their hatred towards Othello. Iago explains to Roderigo his manipulating scheme which leads to the betrayal and downfall of Othello. Betrayal is still relevant in today’s world, with the increase of social media.The play consists of deception of a jealous person, and of the manipulation of small details and ongoing trickery and dishonesty; all of which entice even the modern crowd to wonder what will happen next. This is very much like a modern-day soap opera.The play tells of what happens when characters embark on a trail of jealousy and revenge, and how it can easily be blown out of proportion. Iago embarks on this dangerous journey to win himself back of a desired position-such attitudes are seen in today’s morals where people are too quick to retaliate.
Othello journeys on this quest when he is struck by jealousy, longing to control someone who is but already under his wing. His possessiveness is not a new concept to modern day audiences as jealousy is a form of hatred built on insecurity. The period of this Shakespearean text was situated at the time of an increase in hatred, discrimination and racism especially towards black ethnic races.
Resembling the play, racism is also currently evident today, it is used as a strong and hurtful comeback to consequently wound victims and give others a feeling that they are still somehow still in authority.The relevance of Shakespeare works is significant. The questions of identity, race, loyalty, gender and violence are persistent in societies across the globe.
Shakespeare’s works add meaning to our lives because his themes reflect how we feel and how we think. We share the same emotions and challenges as his characters.
