Throughout history, relationships have been the focal point of a myriad of literature, mainly focusing upon both the highs and lows of them. Shakespeare especially focuses on relationships in much of his work, ranging from “Romeo and Juliet” to “Othello.” All writers use this theme to convey the fundamentality of relationships within life and the effect that the human condition may have on these relationships.
In the given extract, Shakespeare utilizes the characters of Iago and Roderigo to present Othello and Desdemona’s relationship as a rather dark and dangerous one. Iago, when telling Brabantio that an “old black ram is tupping [his] white ewe.” Shakespeare’s use of animalistic imagery here serves to not only disgust the Jacobean audience but also to manipulate the viewer into believing in the barbarity of this act that Iago is desperately trying to convince Brabantio of.
An Old Black Ram is Tupping Your White Ewe Analysis
The significant contrast between the “black ram” and the “white ewe” instantly brings you to believe that Othello is a dark entity that is harming the pure Desdemona; however, this is not the case. Within the Jacobean period, racism was abundant within society, and this is heavily reflected by Shakespeare’s representation of this form of discrimination in his play. Not only is Othello regarded as the “Moor” throughout the entirety of the play, but he is also described as a “black ram” and as the “devil”. During this period, the devil was represented through the color black, thus one can see that Iago’s use of the adjective “black” implies that he regards Othello as the devil and that his actions towards Desdemona are that of malicious intent rather than love.
The meaning of black ram in this context emphasizes Iago’s racist manipulation, leveraging societal prejudices to turn Brabantio against Othello. By saying “an old black ram is tupping your white ewe,” Iago aims to provoke a visceral reaction, painting a lurid picture to amplify Brabantio’s fears and prejudices.
Black Ram Tupping Your White Ewe Analysis
However, as a modern reader, you can understand that the color of someone’s skin does not represent any person’s character or their intentions. This was very different for the time of the play, meaning that the Jacobean audience would form their opinion of Othello around his race rather than his worth to the military and his worth to Desdemona. Along with racial issues, you can see how manipulative the relationship between Iago and Othello is. From the outset, Shakespeare constructs Iago to be deceptive towards Othello and be artificial in the way in which he speaks about him. This arguably stems from Othello’s choice to promote Cassio instead of Iago, thus presenting the relationship between both Othello and Iago as entirely dependent on materialism rather than genuine friendship.
Analyzing Iago’s Manipulation
The phrase “an old black ram is tupping your white ewe” is laden with layers of meaning, revealing Iago’s cunning use of language to incite racial and moral outrage. The black ram represents Othello, while the white ewe symbolizes Desdemona, suggesting an inappropriate and unnatural union. This imagery not only plays on racial differences but also on the notion of purity and corruption, further inflaming Brabantio’s protective instincts and societal prejudices.
Further Analysis of Black Ram Imagery
The repeated use of the phrase “black ram tupping your white ewe” and its variations throughout the play highlights the deep-seated racism and the theme of otherness that Shakespeare explores. This line exemplifies how Iago’s manipulation operates on multiple levels, exploiting both personal and societal biases to achieve his ends. The black ram, symbolizing Othello, is depicted as a predator, while the white ewe, representing Desdemona, is portrayed as a helpless victim, reinforcing the racial and gender stereotypes of the time.
Iago’s Deceptive Nature
Shakespeare’s use of the “black ram” imagery in “Othello” serves as a powerful tool for Iago to manipulate those around him. By invoking such a vivid and offensive image, Iago is able to play on the fears and prejudices of characters like Brabantio, thus advancing his own malicious agenda. The black ram imagery is not just a racial slur but a strategic move to undermine Othello’s character and position, setting the stage for the tragic events that follow.
Shakespeare’s “Othello” employs the imagery of “an old black ram is tupping your white ewe” to explore themes of race, manipulation, and societal norms. This phrase encapsulates the racial tensions and personal vendettas that drive the play’s tragic narrative. The black ram imagery serves as a reminder of the power of language and prejudice in shaping perceptions and actions, making “Othello” a timeless reflection on the darker aspects of human nature.
