Copyright Date:
2021
Edition Date:
2021
Release Date:
05/25/21
Illustrator:
Choy, Julien,
Pages:
410 pages
ISBN:
1-947808-13-3
ISBN 13:
978-1-947808-13-3
Dewey:
Fic
Dimensions:
22 cm.
Subject Heading:
Othello. (Fictitious character from Shakespeare). Comic books, strips, etc. Juvenile fiction.
Othello. (Fictitious character from Shakespeare). Comic books, strips, etc. Fiction.
Jealousy. Comic books, strips, etc. Juvenile fiction.
Venice (Italy). Comic books, strips, etc. Juvenile fiction.
Venice (Italy). Comic books, strips, etc. Fiction.
Language:
English
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews
An illustrated reimagining of one of Shakespeare's most memorable tragedies.From the very beginning of this clever adaptation, effort is made to prioritize accessibility of both the manga form and the classic Shakespearean play: The frontmatter briefly highlights the reading direction of the panels, and characters are labeled when introduced, coming to life via a striking combination of early modern Venetian dress; quintessential manga hairdos and facial expressions; and pronounced linework. Like the rest of the series, this account of Othello remains faithful to the original. The black-and-white illustrations allow for Iago's conniving manipulations to manifest visually as well as animating characters' bigotry in impactful, distressing ways. However, there are shortcomings: Where the original text may use parentheticals and asides to progress the story, the occasional appearance of parentheses in speech bubbles are a distracting reminder that comics utilize storytelling tools that haven't been fully adopted here. Likewise, panel after panel of Othello's turn to violence and his enraged face obscured by shadow provide a poignant dramatic effect but seem to exacerbate prejudices inherent to both the play and medium. Not only is the titular character visually distinguished from other characters by his shading, hair, lips, and overall size, unfortunately neither Shakespeare nor the illustrator seem wholly prepared for a contemporary conversation regarding racial representation in one of literature's most infamous depictions of othering.Will appeal to manga fans but raises questions around depictions of racialized material. (adapter's notes, character designs) (Graphic fiction. 13-18)
A brilliant general in the service of Venice, Othello is also the newhusband of the adoring - and young - Desdemona, whose innocent hero worship hasblossomed into love. But can a beautiful girl, so much younger than her husband,truly be faithful? Othello's trusted ensign Iago seems to think not. Can Othellotrust him? Can Othello trust anyone? Manga Classics presents Shakespeare'sclassic story of love, hate, vengeance, and betrayal, in its full, originalglory! (This volume features the complete, unabridged text from the ShakespearePlay.)