Othello Goes to Lisbon, 1765.

This article explores the earliest documented circulation of Shakespeare's Othello in Portugal in 1765. It discusses the broader trend of Anglophone communities in the 18th century reading English literature, as they sought to reconcile their Catholicism with Britain's Protestant society. The article also examines the presence of Shakespeare's works in Portugal before the 19th century, including translations and adaptations. It highlights the role of the English College in Lisbon in promoting Anglophone print culture and fostering an Anglo-Portuguese social community. The article delves into the shipment of books to the English College, including a diverse range of works intended for both English and Portuguese readers, such as Othello and The Funeral: or, Grief A-la-Mode. It also explores the relationship between the English College and the British state, as well as the reception of Shakespeare in Portugal. Overall, this article provides valuable insights into the reading habits and cultural exchange between England and Portugal during this period. [Extracted from the article]