Behind The Curtains

Throughout the history of literature, specifically in ancient Grecian and Italian literature, the central values of strength, will and loyalty were always emphasized. The ancient cultures emphasized these particular values in literature because, according to history text books, they were reflecting their every-day society. Shakespeare, on the other hand, uses his place as a writer to develop a different idea of the ancient values of culture in Venice. The Shakespearean classic Othello includes a great deal of drama. Although Shakespeare was not living in Venice during this period, could this possibly be a more realistic way of thinking?
The drama in the life of Othello was indeed overemphasized, however this play focused on the imperfections and betrayal that existed in the life of the ancient hero. It is a completely different outlook then what other literature has given us, but perhaps it is more realistic in ways that historical accounts on heroes from the past were not. Othello includes the disrespect and condemnation of women by important figures, the influence of race in relationships, and political corruption. Although the ending of Othello was over-dramatic, it symbolized that the hero's life is not so grand, innocent women are not always rewarded, and evil can indeed prevail. Stories such as Othello make me appreciate drama more, not only because of the entertainment but I feel as though there are issues buried within drama that other forms of writing leave out whether it is on purpose or not.