Research Mini Project and 5 Minute group Presentations

Historical Context:

Research Mini Project and 5 minute Presentations:  Groups

Group 1:

Venice

1)      Where is it located 2) What was it like in the 16^th century? 3) What was its economic status at that time? (Include pictures of it now and then) 4) What was the Venetian’s relationship with the Turks? (Bring a Map of the Mediterranean at the time and be prepared to show what territory the Venetian Republic covered.

Group 2: Cyprus

1)      Where is it? 2) What was its importance in the 16^th century? 3) How far is it from Venice? 4) what were the politics of the countries nearest it? (Use at least one map in your presentation)

Group 3: Moors

1)      Who are they? 2) What were they doing in Europe in the 16^th century? 3) Are there religious or cultural practices associated with them?

Group 4: Turks

1)What was the Elizabethan attitude towards foreigners in general and non- Christians- such as Turks – in particular? Give examples

Group 5: Actors who played the role of Othello: Ira Aldridge

1)      What biographical details can you find out about the 19^th century American-born black actor Ira Aldridge? 2) What about  his playing of Othello? Was he well received? Why or why not?

Group 6: Paul Robeson

1)      What biographical details can you find out about actor Paul Robeson? How did he play Othello in London in 1930, and in New York in 1943? Was he well received? Why or why not?

Group 7: Recent Othello Productions

1)      What can you find out about productions of Othello in recent years? Has the play been performed locally, for example at the Neptune theatre, or in NS  in the last few years? Why or why not? How was it received?

Group 8: Epilepsy

1)      What are the symptoms of Epilepsy? How was it regarded and treated in the Renaissance? How is it treated now? Are there conditions that render an epileptic particularly vulnerable to a seizure? Othello has a seizure in 4.1. Is it epilepsy?