Gender in Shakespeare’s Othello

English III

Quarter IV

3 Minute Brainstorm

Think about your gender.

What behaviors are expected of you because you are male/female?

Gender in Othello

Gender and gender relations in the play are represented in two major ways:

1. Misogyny

2. Restricted gender roles for women

Misogyny: A Definition

Miso ( to hate)+ gyne ( women)____________

Misogyny: Hatred of Women

“Misogyny is a cultural attitude of hatred for females because they are female.”

Sociologist, Allan G. Johnson

Misogyny

“Misogyny is a central part of sexist prejudice and ideology, and, as such, is an important basis for the oppression of females in a male-dominated society,” sociologist, Allan G. Johnson

What do you think this means? Do you agree with this quote? Why/ Why not?

Consequences of a Male-Dominated Society

What are 2 – 3 consequences of women living in a society where they hold limited power?

Women are excluded from the government Women are expected to be housewives Women are viewed as property, not

independent individuals

Women in Government

In Othello: 1600s Not one woman held a position of power There were no female representatives in the

government

In America: 2000’s Women are the minorities in positions of power Women comprise 50.8% of the population yet 16.

8% of Congress Out of 46 presidents, 0 have been women

Women as Housewives

In Othello: 1600’s Women were expected to perform “housewife” duties

and not hold a job Duties include: cleaning, cooking, and obedience

In America: 2000’s These past expectations have lingering affects on

women entering the workforce Women, on average, earn 80% of what men earn

Women Viewed as Property

In Othello: 1600’s Wives are seen as their husband’s property, not as

individuals

In America: 2000’s These past expectations still have social

implications. The practice of “giving the bride away” at wedding

ceremonies portrays women as a possession being handed down from father to husband.

Extended Learning

Locate an event that depicts gender disparities as they exist today. The event can be political, social, or economical. Write an extended response explaining how the event demonstrates gender disparity. Additionally, explain if you think the event can be traced back to a history of gender oppression. Why/Why not?