Title: The Role of Islam in Shakespeare’s Othello

This thesis examines the role of Islam in William Shakespeare’s Othello, situating the play within its historical and cultural context. It argues that Othello’s identity as “the Moor” is shaped not only by race but also by early modern European perceptions of Islam. The first chapter explores economic and diplomatic relations between England and Islamic regions, such as the Ottoman Empire and Persia, showing how these interactions influenced English views of Islam. It also analyzes cultural representations, including fears of conversion and the idea of “turning Turk,” as well as Venice as a site of cross-cultural contact. The second chapter focuses on Othello, examining how religion, race, and otherness intersect in the construction of the protagonist. Through key elements such as marriage, the handkerchief, and the tragic ending, it shows how Islamic associations contribute to Othello’s marginalization. The final chapter reviews critical approaches, from early character-based readings to postcolonial interpretations. Overall, the thesis demonstrates that Islam plays a subtle yet important role in shaping the play’s exploration of identity and otherness.