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Abstract
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This research focuses on analyzing William Shakespeare's Othello through the lens of postcolonial theory, emphasizing the concepts of "otherness" and identity formation. The study aims to shed light on the tensions experienced by Othello, the play's protagonist, as an individual of Moorish descent striving to integrate into Venetian society, which perceives him as the "Other." The research draws upon Edward Said's theory of Orientalism to understand how Othello's identity is constructed as the "Other," where colonial discourse enforces a dichotomy between the "civilized" and the "primitive." According to Said, “The Orient is not only an academic subject but a creation of the Western imagination.” This idea is evident in Othello through the way Venetian society views and treats Othello, emphasizing his race and culture to reinforce his status as an outsider, despite his military accomplishments. By interpreting the play through this theoretical framework, the research uncovers how colonialism perpetuates cultural and racial hierarchies, using them as tools for maintaining structures of power.
The study further explores the interplay between individual identity and societal power structures, revealing how colonial ideologies shape not only societal perceptions of Othello but also his self-perception. By analyzing these tensions, the research seeks to uncover the depth of Othello’s tragedy and how the play reflects broader issues of identity, discrimination, and colonialism. Moreover, the research examines the roles of other characters, such as Desdemona and Emilia, to highlight the intersectionality of race and gender in a patriarchal and racially biased society. It underscores how these characters navigate their limited agency, drawing attention to the compounded forms of marginalization within the play. This comprehensive analysis connects the colonial dynamics embedded in Othello to critical literary inquiry, offering insights into how the play interrogates and cri
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