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Year 9 - English

Exploring Act 2, Scene 1 of Othello

'Othello'

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils explore Shakespeare's 'Othello'. They start by learning about Aristotelian tragedy and how Shakespeare adapted it. They read long extracts from across the play, and consider the presentation of Othello, Iago and Desdemona. Finally, they look at key themes, such as jealousy.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explain how the symbolic storm reflects the structure and key elements of the tragedy.

Key Notes

  • Shakespeare often uses different locations to represent mindsets.
  • In 'Othello', Venice represents civilisation whilst Cyprus symbolises the wilderness.
  • The storm is a recurring symbol in Shakespeare's plays, reflecting a disruption of order.
  • The description of the storm dividing Othello and Cassio foreshadows Othello's demise.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Pathetic Fallacy: The attribution of human emotion to inanimate objects or things.
  • Foreshadow: Warn of a future event.
  • Misogyny: Dislike of or prejudice for women.
  • Poignant: Evoking a keen sense of sadness or regret.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • The storm in Othello is just a device that means the Turkish army is defeated and the war is over.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain this English learning goal in two key points.

Shakespeare often uses different locations to represent mindsets. In 'Othello', Venice represents civilisation whilst Cyprus symbolises the wilderness.

2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'Pathetic Fallacy'

The attribution of human emotion to inanimate objects or things.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: The storm in Othello is just a device that means the Turkish army is defeated and the war is over. Correction: The storm in Othello is a device that is symbolic of chaos and disorder to come.

More Lessons In This Unit

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