Othello (Arkangel Shakespeare)
by William Shakespeare, David Threlfall, Arkangel Cast
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Book Summary Information
Author: Arkangel Cast, David Threlfall, William ShakespeareNarrator: Don Warrington
Edition: Music CD
Format: Unabridged
Published: 2005-08-10
ISBN: 1932219269
Publisher: BBC Audiobooks America
Book Reviews of Othello (Arkangel Shakespeare)
Book Review: A Wonderful Dramatization
Summary: 4 Stars
I love listening to British dramatizations of literary works! The Archangel Casts rendition of Shakespeare's "Othello" is extremely well done. Shakespeare's original text is read in a vibrant fashion, complete with sound effects and music. The themes of jealousy, revenge, racism, and deception are clearly evident.
The primise of this play concerns a Moorish general in the Venetian army who is in love with a Senator's daughter, Desdemona. The couple marry, much to the anger and chagrin of Desdemona's father, Brabantio. Before the couple can consummate their marriage, Othello is sent to Cypress in order to defend the island from Turkish invaders. Desdemona pleads to be allowed to accompany him, and is granted permission. She will follow her husband in the company of Iago, Othello's "ensign," or servant, who has his own agenda. Iago is bitterly angry with Othello for promoting an officer named Cassio to the rank of Lieutenant when Iago feels he is the one who deserves the job. Iago also believes that Othello slept with his own wife, Emilia. Resolving to be avenged, the psychopathically evil and manipulative ensign concocts a diabolical plan to convence Othello that Desdemona is having an affair with Cassio. What follows is a psychological drama in which Othello wrestles with doubts and confusion as he tries to learn the truth and ultimately descends into madness. Move over soap operas!
The cast in this dramatization is excellent. David Threlfall is unsurpassable as Iago. His soft, seductive voice, (almost reminiscent of melting chocolate), simultaneously throbs with pretended concern and demonic joy. His soliluquies will chill you as you listen to his remorseless tones crescendo into jeering laughter. Anne Marie Duff is wonderful as Desdemona, providing the listener with a portrayal of innocence and heartbreaking sadness and fear. A special note needs to be made for Clive Swift who portrays Brabantio so well. Swift portrayed Richard on "Keeping Up Appearances," and I enjoyed listening to him in a serious role.
My only complaint about this production is Don Warrington who plays Othello. His accent is very thick, and it might help you to have a text of the play in front of you when he is speaking. This is the only reason I gave this dramatization four stars, but please do not let this put you off. The production is excellently done and should be listened to. Please give it a chance.
Summary of Othello (Arkangel Shakespeare)
Othello, a Moorish general in the service of Venice, has married Desdemona, beautiful daughter of a Venetian Senator. But Iago, Othello's malignant ensign, is determined to destroy their happiness. Cunningly bending the greatness of Othello's nature to his own purposes, Iago persuades the Moor that Desdemona is unfaithful to him. Tormented in a hell of jealousy, Othello moves inexorably toward the destruction of his innocent wife and himself. This great tragedy confronts the mystery at the heart of evil and contains some of Shakespeare's most magnificent dramatic verse. The play is performed by Don Warrington, David Threlfall, and the Arkangel Cast.General Books
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