Female "Othellos"

This book examines the contemporary stage adaptations of "Othello" by four notable contemporary playwrights, exploring their adaptive levels, contexts, and strategies in revising the play. It also addresses the anxiety of canonization experienced by these playwrights and their authorial relations with Shakespeare, highlighting the call for new contemporary womens perspectives and the potential for further feminist adaptations.

Format: Hardback
Length: 100 pages
Publication date: 31 July 2018
Publisher: Peter Lang AG

This comprehensive study delves into the examination of contemporary stage adaptations of William Shakespeare's renowned play, "Othello." By exploring the works of four prominent contemporary playwrights, namely Ann Marie MacDonald, Djanet Sears, Paula Vogel, and Toni Morrison, this study aims to analyze their plays both within and outside the framework of adaptation studies. Drawing upon postcolonial and feminist theories, as well as psychoanalytical and adaptation theories, this book delves into the intricate adaptive levels, contexts, and strategies employed by these four women playwrights in their revisions of "Othello." Additionally, it addresses the anxiety of canonization experienced by contemporary women playwrights, which is closely intertwined with their authorial relationships with Shakespeare. Through their interpretations, these playwrights challenge traditional perspectives and offer new feminist interpretations of the play, thereby creating a lasting space for further feminist adaptations. Moreover, "Othello" emerges as a symbol of the ongoing signification process, reflecting the dynamic and evolving nature of artistic expression.

Introduction:
"Othello" is a timeless masterpiece that has captivated audiences for centuries. Its themes of jealousy, betrayal, and power have resonated with audiences across different cultures and time periods. In recent years, contemporary women playwrights have taken up the challenge of adapting this play for the modern stage, offering fresh perspectives and interpretations that challenge traditional notions of gender and race. This study aims to examine the contemporary stage adaptations of "Othello" by these four noteworthy contemporary playwrights and explore their plays both within and outside the framework of adaptation studies.

Postcolonial and Feminist Theories:
Postcolonial and feminist theories provide a rich framework for analyzing the adaptations of "Othello." Postcolonialism examines the ways in which colonialism and imperialism have shaped cultural identities and narratives, while feminism focuses on the representation and empowerment of women in society. These theories help us understand the ways in which contemporary women playwrights have reinterpreted "Othello" to address issues of power, gender, and race.

Psychoanalytical Theories:
Psychoanalytical theories also play a significant role in understanding the adaptations of "Othello." These theories explore the unconscious mind and its influence on human behavior, particularly in relation to gender and power dynamics. By incorporating psychoanalytical insights, contemporary women playwrights have been able to delve deeper into the characters' motivations and emotional states, offering new interpretations of the play's themes.

Adaptation Strategies:
The four contemporary women playwrights employ various adaptation strategies in their revisions of "Othello." Some of these strategies include updating the setting to contemporary times, incorporating modern cultural references, and exploring the intersectionality of race and gender. Others focus on reimagining the characters' roles and relationships, challenging traditional gender stereotypes and power dynamics.

Anxiety of Canonization:
While contemporary women playwrights are celebrated for their innovative interpretations of Shakespeare's plays, they also face the anxiety of canonization. This anxiety arises from the fear of being labeled as mere imitators or derivative artists, particularly when adapting works that are considered canonical. However, these playwrights challenge this notion by demonstrating their unique perspectives and artistic vision.

New Contemporary Women's Perspectives:
Through their adaptations of "Othello," contemporary women playwrights offer new contemporary womens perspectives on the play. They challenge traditional notions of gender roles and power dynamics, highlighting the complexities and nuances of female characters. They also explore the intersectionality of race and gender, examining how these factors shape the characters' experiences and relationships.

Enduring Space for Feminist Adaptations:
"Othello" provides an enduring space for further feminist adaptations. The play's themes of jealousy, betrayal, and power are still relevant in today's society, and contemporary women playwrights continue to explore these themes in innovative and thought-provoking ways. By reimagining "Othello" for the modern stage, they create a platform for feminist discourse and activism, inspiring audiences to think critically about gender and power dynamics.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this study explores the contemporary stage adaptations of "Othello" by four noteworthy contemporary playwrights. By employing postcolonial and feminist theories, psychoanalytical theories, and adaptation strategies, these playwrights have reinterpreted the play to address issues of power, gender, and race. Their innovative interpretations offer new contemporary womens perspectives and create a lasting space for further feminist adaptations. "Othello" emerges as a symbol of the ongoing signification process, reflecting the dynamic and evolving nature of artistic expression.

Weight: 232g
Dimension: 154 x 214 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783631748695
Edition number: New ed