William Shakespeare's Othello was written during the Jacobean period, reflecting the Renaissance influences. Particularly the bringing back of all kinds of knowledge, which had produced a dynamic interest in the world, that was outside the Anglo-Saxon English world. The increase of foreigners, led to the challenge of establishing beliefs. The increased interest of foreigners is reflected through the main character, Othello, often referred to as the 'Moor'. The play challenges the stereotypical view of how the black man is portrayed. Also challenged in the play is the Jacobean belief of individuals being responsible for their own actions. If these actions disobeyed the law of God, then that individual would suffer the tragic consequences of their actions.
             The Jacobean view of a black man is that he is looked upon with suspicion, despised and one who cannot be trusted. However, through Shakespeare's play, Othello has been portrayed as a noble figure, exactly the opposite of what would be expected. The power obtained by Othello through his services to the state in Venice, doesn't necessarily gain him respect from the community, it also encourages hatred. As shown when Othello be-weds the beautiful Desdemona with whom he loves "above the seas worth". Othello's strength is shown through this marriage as both he and Desdemona defend their love and the attempt at convincing others that it is far from any act of 'witchcraft' or 'arts inhibited'. Othello's self confidence is expressed through the repetition of 'my' in 'my life and being', and 'My pasts, my title and my perfect soul', as he knows that he has done the 'Signory' some service. However, the man who's 'passion could not shake' does in fact, as Othello falls into the deceiving plan of Iago. Both Iago and Brabantio's anger and outrage during sc
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