Write an essay on the issue of race in Othello by William Shakespeare.

The theme of race (and interracial marriage ) is a prevalent one in Shakespeare 's Othello . Othello is the only black (Moor ) character , the remaining characters are white Venetians , with the exception of Cassio who is from Florence . Othello is set apart by and self conscisous of his race , and takes great pains to show that he is just as good as everyone else . Iago strives to separate the fair Desdemona from Othello . The play is replete with racial epithets , for example where Roderigo comments on the stereotypical facial features of blacks "What

a full fortune does the thicklips owe / If he can carry 't thus ' Iago tries to enrage Brabantio by stating that "an old black ram / is tupping your white ewe " Brabantio can not see Othello 's merit beneath the color of his skin . Iago , through his trickery , pits Othello and Desdemona against each other . Othello becomes jealous , wondering Desdemona could really love a Moor . In such a manner , Iago plays upon Othello 's own insecurities about his place in society based upon his race . Shakespeare twists typical preconceptions , making a fresh and unique use of black and white symbolism throughout the play . The overtly black man is inwardly good , and a white man (and a soldier , typically portrayed as honorable ) is inwardly evil . Clarity of view , sight and perception is a major theme in the play , amplified in part by the black-white symbolism

Shakespeare was well aware of the racial tension in England during that time period , and was brave in choosing to challenge it and its stereotypes . What makes his play even more interesting is how he got into Othello 's head and examine his own self-loathing of his race . Also interesting is how Desdemona loves Othello for his words , but appears somewhat fearful of his appearance . Even she is not fully accepting and loving him as a whole for what he is , despite her courageous act in taking him as her partner . It is such realistic depictions and nuances of character that makes Shakespeare 's play rich , and beyond a simply platform to portray his views...