Although Othello is a Moor, and although we often assume he is from Africa, he never names his birthplace in the play. In Shakespeare's time, Moors could be from Africa, but they could also be from the Middle East, or even Spain. American actor John Edward McCullough as Othello in 1878.

What is the race of Othello?

Iago makes several references to Othello's race as well, referring to him as an "old black ram" (1.1. 88-89), a "devil" (1.1. 91), and a " Barbary horse" (1.1.

What culture is Othello from?

Othello is a play about a black soldier in a European set-up. The play is set in Venice, a town known for its unique trade and culture. Othello, a black person, is a skillful soldier who is admired by the people of Venice for his courage and achievements.