Shakespeare's Othello contains many themes which are relevant to a contemporary audience in today's society. Although many aspects of people's lives have changed, the issues in Othello are still considered relevant and people are able to relate to them. The main themes and issues explored are racism, reputation and honour, manipulation and deceit, relationships between men and women, jealousy and justice.
             The fact that Othello was the only black man in a white society put him in a disadvantaged situation. At the beginning Othello breaks traditional stereotypes of a black Moor. He is modest, caring, thoughtful, self confident and calm of nature but he is still seen and treated as an outsider. When Iago informs Brabantio of Othello and Desdemona's relationship he refers to it by saying 'an old black ram is tupping your white ewe' and 'you'll have your daughter cover'd with a Barbary horse'. He uses sexual imagery to enforce the idea that Othello is black unlike Desdemona. It is when Iago plays on Othello's status as an outsider that Othello's self-doubt grows and he starts to fulfil negative racial stereotypes that are laid out for him. Now days we have recognised the issue of racism and are moving towards controlling it. We are making a conscious effort to treat everyone the same no matter what their colour, race or religion.
             Reputation and honour in the play was very important. Iago had a reputation as being 'honest'. He said things such as 'I'd rather have this tongue cut from my mouth then it should do offence to Michael Cassio'. This enforces the way others see him and believe him to be truthful. Othellos reputation means a lot to him as a good husband and lieutenant. When Iago convinces Othello he is a cuckold, he finds this unbearable to cope with. This statement reinforces the idea planted by Iago that Venetian women have a reputation of ...