TMOV 2.1-2.5: Discussion

2.1: Race comes into the play ... how is it handled in the language and in the blocking?

The basics of black males & Shakespeare

• Only three men: Aaron (villain from Titus Andronicus), Othello (tragic hero), and Prince of Morocco
• Stereotypes about blacks held by Elizabethan audience: villainous, especially given to passion, unsophisticated

Close look at the scene

1. Read through the text as a class.
2. Working in pairs (and one group of three), how is this scene staged? How are Portia and the Prince of Moroco interacting on stage? What tones do they use? Be sure you understand their language before you begin.
3. Big questions --> What does this scene reveal abut Portia? Does the PoM affirm or contradict stereotypes?

2.2: recap, big picture, purpose?

2.3: Jessica's conversion ... what does it signify? At the close of this scene, who are the pairs of lovers?

2.4-2.5: What are your thoughts on Shylock?

Compare the relationship between Jessica & Shylock with that of Portia and her father. Reminder: familial piety is very important, so what is Shakespeare telling us about religion's role in society?