Othello: use of performance space

Othello: Use of Performance Space

Initial Stage Setting

• The early setting in Venice marks a civilised, orderly space, reflecting societal hierarchy and established norms.
• The use of settings including the council chamber, the street, and domestic interiors allows for diversity in staging and creates layers of public and private performances.

Cyprus

• The shift to the isolated island of Cyprus signifies a turn towards chaos and lawlessness.
• The predominance of tumultuous outdoor spaces, like the storm at sea and the citadel, mirrors the escalating emotions and conflicts between characters.

Interior and exterior

• The use of interior spaces like bedrooms and halls symbolise private, intimate interactions – the stage for crucial scenes like Desdemona’s murder or Othello’s self-doubts.
• Exterior staging signifies larger conflict or public happenings – for example, the street brawl.

Spatial Dynamics

• The movement of characters within the space can illuminate their motives and emotional state – Othello increasingly isolates himself, Iago lurks at the fringes manipulating proceedings.
• Key props like the handkerchief or weapons are strategically placed and used to enhance dramatic tension.

Symbolic use of Space

• The bed in the final scene serves as a powerful symbol of matrimonial love, betrayal and death.
• The transition from light to dark throughout the play could be physically enacted with a shifting set and lighting, symbolising the tragic journey from love and reason to jealousy and chaos.

Performance Space Context

• The choice and manipulation of performance space in Othello are potent narrative tools that Shakespeare uses to tap into psychological depths and create a visual spectacle.
• Understanding the use of space can help to elucidate themes of order and chaos, public decorum versus private emotions, and the perturbing descent into tragedy.