Kaufmann , Miranda. “Making the Beast with two Backs” – Interracial Relationships in Early Modern
England.” Literature Compass, 2015, pp.22–37.
SUMMARY
Miranda’s article is less of an argument, and more of a collection of research on the presence of peoples from the continent of Africa in Europe (primarily Shakespeare’s England). She pulls from a variety of sources and corroborates much of what Dr Onyeka said in the RSC debate we watched for class. This article is situated among many that use Othello as a foundation for exploring the presence of interracial relationships in Elizabethan England. Whereas other criticism might focus on racial dynamics in the play, or even on the possibility of Desdemona and Othello’s relationship, Kaufmann endeavors to show that a relationship like theirs was not only possible but very present in England. As Kaufmann develops her points and covers her research, it becomes clear (although not stated directly) that she trying to disprove the “lascivious moor” stereotype used in Othello. Her article is divided into three main sections. The first provides parish records to demonstrate the many legal interracial marriages that occurred during Shakespeare’s time. Her middle section is much longer and focuses on both illegitimate and legitimate children from interracial relationships. She also covers how “fornication” was illegal, and the practice of white masters having sex with their Black slaves. Her final sections explores the possibility of Black female prostitute (of some fame) named Lucy – and whether she is connected at all to Shakespeare’s “Dark Lady” sonnets.
*Ben Mathews
