This talk reflects on the psychological, emotional and physical consequences of different types of violence in and beyond Othello—that is to say, in contemporary times. I argue that the white identity formation process itself, and more importantly and harmfully, allegiance to its ideals, inherently impedes racial equality; the white identity formation process itself works to reify white superiority in overt and covert ways. This is especially evident as I read the figure of Iago in relationship to other characters in the play, especially the play’s male figures who become targets of his sexual violence. Furthermore, I use Othello to reflect on how early modern drama can amplify the “white voice,” a concept Jennifer Stoever and I examine in Shakespeare Studies (vol. 50, Autumn 2022); and within this talk I accentuate the personal-critical-experiential to consider the Black (male) Shakespearean voice and how it, too, can be subject to white violence.
This event will be held online via Zoom. You can access the meeting using this link: https://columbiauniversity.zoom.us/j/4855059036. Please find the full Zoom invitation below.
The meeting will be held from 7-8:30pm EST, with announcements from 7-7:15pm, the talk 7:15-8:00pm and Q&A from 8-8:30pm. We will also host a casual social/cocktail half hour after the meeting. Since there won't be a dinner and we have no space constraints, an RSVP is not required. But I am still circulating the Evite for the sake of consistency and to preserve our sense of community. You can find announcements from our seminar members at the end of this email.
Columbia University encourages persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. The University Seminar participants with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations or who have questions about physical access may contact the Office of Disability Services at 212-854-2388 or [email protected]. Disability accommodations, including sign-language interpreters, are available on request. Requests for accommodations must be made two weeks in advance. On campus, Seminar participants with disabilities should alert a Public Safety Officer that they need assistance accessing campus.
