Relative theory/criticism Flashcards
Feminism
we can apply feminist theory when exploring the characterization of Desdemona. A feminist critic would take into account the issue of gender in regard to the patriarchal nature of Venetian society at the time this play was set. Lisa Jardine’s viewpoint is that because Desdemona is ‘too-knowing’ and ‘too-independent’, she is punished by the patriarchy. Critics have argued that in many Jacobean plays, female characters’ worth are often tethered to the ideas of sexuality in context. Women were supposed to be pure and loyal to their spouse, and because of the wrong doings of other men, women are the ones punished, similar to Juliette.
Marxism
a Marxist critic would view the play from a political standpoint, as they explore the power structure in the society that it is set in. Some critics suggest that materialism plays apart in this, as the cultural significance of props, such as the handkerchief serve as a source of stability in Desdemona’s and Othello’s relationship. When applying Marxist theory, it can be argued that Iago’s malicious intentions can be politically justified. Perhaps Iago is a working-class hero, fighting against a system that has oppressed and exploited him. Maybe Othello is the true villain as he is a tyrant who deserves to be stripped of power
