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OTHELLO
A Taste of What's to Come
OTHELLO
ACT TWO
SCENE II
Herald
Oh yay, oh yay, I bring you perks!
Othello has finished off the Turks.
He’s arranged for us a bit of a do,
Which is what I’m out here announcing to you.
He also got married, which we’ll all celebrate
In this town hall square, from five until late.
Go put on your frocks and shine your medallions,
And God bless the Moor and all the Italians!
Dr Paul Leonard Murray’s Silly Shakespeare for Students edition of Othello reimagines this powerful tragedy with accessible language and clever rhyming couplets, capturing the intense emotions and timeless themes of prejudice, jealousy, and betrayal. The core dynamics remain: Othello’s internal struggle, Iago’s sinister manipulations, and the tragic consequences for everyone involved.
This adaptation invites readers to explore deep questions about the nature of evil and the choices people make, all while keeping the action lively and engaging with a touch of humor. Notes on playing style, character insights, and a full summary make it easy for students and educators to bring this classic to life—even if it’s their first encounter with Shakespeare.
Perfect for drama clubs, classrooms, or anyone looking to reimagine the Bard, this fresh take on Othello will captivate both new audiences and seasoned Shakespeare fans!
“Silly Shakespeare” by Paul Murray offers a refreshing and hilarious twist on classic Shakespearean tales, making it a delightful read for both devoted fans and newcomers alike. With sharp wit and inventive reinterpretations, Murray brings the Bard’s iconic characters and stories to life in an accessible and entertaining way that invites readers of all backgrounds to join in the fun. The charm of Silly Shakespeare lies in its perfect balance between respect for the original works and lighthearted, irreverent humor, which brings a fresh perspective to familiar tales.
Adam Stewart
- Founder and Artistic Director Prague Youth Theatre
“What I would have given for Paul Murray’s works (way) back when I was a kid. What Murray has done brilliantly is make Shakespeare approachable for young people (and the young at heart).
Jonathan Glassner
- Producer, Director, Co-creator Stargate SG-1, The Outer Limits, CSI Miami, CSI: NY, The Ark
“…just as exciting as the original…The exuberance that he displays in making this modern-day adaptation come to life under his guidance is admirable.”
Reader’s Favorite
Dr Paul Leonard Murray’s Silly Shakespeare for Students edition of Othello reimagines this powerful tragedy with accessible language and clever rhyming couplets, capturing the intense emotions and timeless themes of prejudice, jealousy, and betrayal. The core dynamics remain: Othello’s internal struggle, Iago’s sinister manipulations, and the tragic consequences for everyone involved.
This adaptation invites readers to explore deep questions about the nature of evil and the choices people make, all while keeping the action lively and engaging with a touch of humor. Notes on playing style, character insights, and a full summary make it easy for students and educators to bring this classic to life—even if it’s their first encounter with Shakespeare.
Perfect for drama clubs, classrooms, or anyone looking to reimagine the Bard, this fresh take on Othello will captivate both new audiences and seasoned Shakespeare fans!
“Silly Shakespeare” by Paul Murray offers a refreshing and hilarious twist on classic Shakespearean tales, making it a delightful read for both devoted fans and newcomers alike. The charm of Silly Shakespeare lies in its perfect balance between respect for the original works and lighthearted, irreverent humor, which brings a fresh perspective to familiar tales.
Adam Stewart
- Founder and Artistic Director Prague Youth Theatre
“What I would have given for Paul Murray’s works (way) back when I was a kid. What Murray has done brilliantly is make Shakespeare approachable for young people (and the young at heart).
Jonathan Glassner
- Producer, Director, Co-creator Stargate SG-1, The Outer Limits, CSI Miami, CSI: NY, The Ark
“…just as exciting as the original…The exuberance that he displays in making this modern-day adaptation come to life under his guidance is admirable.”
Reader’s Favorite
Trivia
Modern Adaptations: Othello has inspired countless adaptations, including the 1995 film starring Laurence Fishburne and Kenneth Branagh, and O, a 2001 modern retelling set in a high school basketball context.
Desdemona’s Name Means “Ill-Fated”: The name Desdemona comes from the Greek word dysdaimon, meaning “ill-fated” or “unlucky,” which foreshadows her tragic end.
The Handkerchief Symbol: The handkerchief Othello gives Desdemona is a crucial symbol in the play. It represents love and fidelity but becomes the “evidence” Iago uses to destroy Othello’s trust in Desdemona.
Iago’s Role as a Villain: Iago is one of Shakespeare’s most complex and manipulative villains. Despite his pivotal role, his motives remain ambiguous. He famously claims to act out of jealousy and spite, but his true reasons are left open to interpretation.
Trivia
Modern Adaptations: Othello has inspired countless adaptations, including the 1995 film starring Laurence Fishburne and Kenneth Branagh, and O, a 2001 modern retelling set in a high school basketball context.
Desdemona’s Name Means “Ill-Fated”: The name Desdemona comes from the Greek word dysdaimon, meaning “ill-fated” or “unlucky,” which foreshadows her tragic end.
The Handkerchief Symbol: The handkerchief Othello gives Desdemona is a crucial symbol in the play. It represents love and fidelity but becomes the “evidence” Iago uses to destroy Othello’s trust in Desdemona.
Iago’s Role as a Villain: Iago is one of Shakespeare’s most complex and manipulative villains. Despite his pivotal role, his motives remain ambiguous. He famously claims to act out of jealousy and spite, but his true reasons are left open to interpretation.