Introduction Time and Place in Othello


In Othello, events happen in a shorter time sequence than is usual in Shakespeare’s plays. To some extent, the first act (which takes place over one night) can be seen as a prologue to the main story set in Cyprus. The effect is to make the tragedy seem much more intense. The drama is also heightened due to the lack of a significant subplot and the almost total absence of comic relief.


From Act 2 onwards, there is a rush of activity: Othello’s wedding celebrations, Cassio’s dismissal, Desdemona’s pleading on his behalf, Iago’s increasing influence, Othello’s growing suspicion and its inevitable tragic outcome. Although Othello’s whole world seems to disintegrate very quickly, characters make comments that suggest a much longer timescale. For example, Bianca complains to Cassio that he has avoided her for ‘seven days and nights’.


The contrasting settings are also important. The city of Venice has a sophisticated social class system, which welcomes Othello as a military commander but rejects him as a son- in-law. The Moor has little understanding of the finer points of social behaviour and Iago has no trouble convincing him that women in Venice are all immoral.


By contrast, Cyprus is symbolically located halfway between the civilised and heathen worlds. Within this claustrophobic setting, where Othello is in absolute command, he becomes the focus of attention. It is in this unfamiliar location that passions are let loose and order disappears.


Critics have commented on the ‘double time’ of Othello. The play’s main action occurs over just two days, but Shakespeare makes us think the time is actually longer. Fortunately, theatre audiences are largely unaware of any inconsistencies, primarily because they are caught up in the psychological intensity of the play. Of course, to fully appreciate Othello, a willing suspension of disbelief is a vital part of the contract between audience and playwright.


Locations in Othello


The island of Cyprus, directly south of Turkey, is part of the Venetian Republic in Othello and subject to invasion by the Turks. Later it became part of the Turks’ Ottoman Empire.


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