Othello

The Silly Shakespeare for Students edition of Othello simplifies this challenging tragedy without losing any of the complexity of the plot, characters, of themes. This edition is perfect for introducing students to the Bard's work, working on a class play or drama club, or teaching speaking and oracy skills while grappling with a piece of classic English literature.

Author Paul Leonard Murray, director of the Belgrade English Language Theater, has cut the play down to an hour or so and made the language more modern and accessible. But he's kept the dynamics of the tragedy of Othello, the Moor as he struggles against prejudices, social barriers, and his own pride and jealousy. We still grapple with Iago's motivations and how innocent to consider Emilia, Iago's wife, and Rodrigo, his companion and pawn. What is the nature of evil and why do people do bad things? This adaptation is written in rhyming couplets which keeps the action moving and engages students. The clever, slightly irreverent wit of the adaptation does not distract from the drama at the heart of the tragedy though.

Also included are notes on playing style, a discussion of the characters and themes in the play, and a full summary to support students. This edition makes putting on Shakespeare easy and fun, even if you've never done drama in class before!

Looking for something different for drama club, student theater, or speaking class? Want to spice up your literature or reading class and give students a new appreciation for Shakespeare? This is the series for you!