Final answer:
The historical setting of Shakespeare's Othello is linked to the Renaissance period, characterized by political tensions and cultural dynamics, as evident in the Venetian conflict with the Ottoman Empire. The narrative reflects the Elizabethan era's concerns and the competitive spirit that influenced the dramatic storytelling of that time.
Step-by-step explanation:
The historical setting of Othello can be linked to the period during which it was written and the prevailing attitudes and events of the time. This play was authored by William Shakespeare, who was known to set his stories against historical backdrops to enhance the narrative and drive the actions of characters. We observe this technique in Othello as it unfolds in the context of the Venetian society's tensions with the Ottoman Empire. Following the practice observed by many writers during the 16th and 17th centuries, Shakespeare skillfully combines a factual setting and creates characters who take part in a plot set against a historical landscape.
The competition mentioned by LibreTexts™ points to a time when Europe was rife with political struggles, such as the conflict between Florence and Milan. Later on, during the Renaissance, the rise of new theatrical spaces like the Elizabethan Theatre provided a canopy for stories ranging from political intrigue to personal rivalry. The narrative in Othello ties back to these real-world historical scenarios, like the aforementioned expansion of the Ottoman Empire under Mehmed II.
The richness of Shakespeare's works often comes from the blend of dramatic personal stories and grand historical events. In Othello, Shakespeare may not directly reference historical figures like Mehmed II or events like the Milanese threat to Florence, but the play's backdrop of a Venice in conflict with the Ottomans, the portrayal of military heroes, and the intricate social dynamics reflect the historical period's tensions and cultural settings, helping Shakespeare to universalize themes like jealousy, betrayal, and racial prejudice, relevant to the society of his time.