Comment on how the setting of Act 1-3 helps Shakespeare prepare the reader for tragedy?
The setting is important for preparing the reader for tragedy in Act 1 through the fact that the scene's events are held in darkness. The effect of the events occurring after light, creates an eerie, dark theme which accentuates the status of the situations. For example, the situation of Iago plotting to bring about the downfall of Othello and Brabantio's subsequent hate for him through his intentions of marrying his daughter all occur during the night. This emphasises to the reader the conflict Othello has between many characters in the play, making tragedy more likely to occur.
As a common template for tragedies is having a protagonist 'falling from grace' due to a fatal flaw, Othello being black at this time could be viewed as a flaw.This is shown due to the play being set in Venice and provokes a sense of 'isolation' through Othello being black in a predominantly white country. With isolation being a theme of 'tragedy' this is immediately emphasised through the racial comments he receives such as 'Barbary horse' which shows he is viewed as an 'outsider' by certain characters.
Daniel, although this is a little short, your analysis is insightful and interseting so well done. Make sure you get in the habit of using quotations to support the points you make.
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