Dilemma of Magic and Witchcraft: It’s Relation with the Ethnicity of Elizabethan Age

Abstract

This study explores the elements of supernaturalism and witchcraft as the prominent theme in Shakespeare’s play “Othello”. However, it does not have any direct allusion to ghosts and witches but the role of magic is eminent in this play. It can be overlooked by abundant references to bewitchment, prominent among which are the magical history of handkerchief and the allegation of Brabantio against Othello. This will bring to light that cultural background has a prominent impact on Shakespeare’s plays and the role of magic in Othello imposes threats on Venetian society. Shakespeare’s work will be analysed in the light of New Historicism Theory, which explores the work of art and literature in relation to its cultural context. The study has brougt the role of witchcraft and magic to the surface which is ambiguous in the play and has prominent impact on society and culture of that time.

Keywords: Supernatural Elements, Magic, Bewitchment, Magical History, New Historicism, handkerchief, Venetian Society, Witchcraft