what are the major themes of othello

Othello: Themes

• Jealousy Jealousy, or the “green-eyed monster” as Iago refers to it, is the main theme of Othello. Iago’s professional and personal jealousy is integral for the plot progression. ...
• Women The role of a woman in society is one of the central themes in Othello. ...
• Appearance vs. Reality One of the most critical themes of Othello is appearance vs. reality. ...

Full Answer

What are the universal themes in Othello?

This is undoubtedly true of Shakespeare’s Othello, as it explores the universal themes of racism, jealousy and the role of women, which are also applicable to modern times, as is displayed in Geoffrey Sax’s …show more content… During Shakespeare’s time, racism towards foreigners was an accepted attitude, and even Othello himself believed it.

Why is jealousy a theme in Othello?

This, in turn, creates a new Othello to emerge, one “utterly possessed, calling out for blood and vengeance” . The theme of jealousy is prominent throughout the play as it motivates the characters’ actions. The major characters of Iago and Othello clearly possess this jealousy and show how it affects them.

What are facts about Othello?

Othello. Othello is a Moorish (African) general in the Venetian army and an eloquent storyteller who is respected, but often treated as an outsider. He has promoted Cassio to lieutenant while leaving Iago as ensign. Othello falls in love with Desdemona and they secretly marry; later, he leaves to Cyprus to stop the Turks.

How is Iago jealous in Othello?

Iago is jealous of Othello because of his senseless hate for him. “Even now, now, very now, an old black ram is tupping your white ewe” (1.1.90-91). As Iago speaks to Brabantio, he shows his hate right off the bat by disrespecting Othello and referring to him as a black ram. Iago shows these traits very out and about because he wishes he ...

What is a thematic statement in Othello?

Othello Theme 2: Jealousy All of the action and consequences that unfold are the result of jealousy. Iago is jealous of Cassio's appointment as lieutenant over him, he also believes that Othello has had an affair with Emilia, his wife, and harbors plans for revenge on him as a result.

What are the themes in Act 1 of Othello?

In Act 1, Scene 1 of Othello, the biggest theme is jealousy. Roderigo is jealous of Othello because he wanted to marry Desdemona, and Iago is jealous that he was overlooked for a promotion. Iago's jealousy will be the driving force throughout the rest of the play as he plots to ruin Othello.

What is the main meaning of Othello?

Definition of Othello : a Moor in the military service of Venice, husband of Desdemona, and protagonist of Shakespeare's tragedy Othello.

What is the theme of Othello Act 2?

Unjustified hatred leads to unfounded projection of emotions and unnecessary conflict instigation. We know Iago feels wrong done for the promotion he felt he was deserving of, being given to Cassio.

Is sexism a theme in Othello?

Sexism In Othello Analysis Othello reinforces racism and sexism in a very subtle way; while some argue that Shakespeare undermines the racist and sexist ideas imposed on the characters by calling attention to the racism and sexism in the times, the play seems to disprove this.

What was Othello's tragic flaw?

Some say that Othello's tragic flaw was jealousy which flared at suspicion and rushed into action unchecked by calm common sense. A more modern interpretation would say that Othello's tragic flaw was that he had internalized, that is taken into himself, the prejudices of those who surrounded him.

What does Othello teach us about society?

“Othello” is a cautionary tale. It prompts us to check our reflexive feelings and to befairer and more generous toward those whom we might dismiss or pigeonhole. It also encourages us to be more forgiving of others' trespasses.

What type of tragedy is Othello?

Othello is also a domestic tragedy: the tragedy of marriage. Othello and Desdemona have a passionate love which could be seen as a threat to the rules established by patriarchal order: their intense, emotionally charged and equal marriage challenges ideas about class, race and the conformity of women.

What is the significance of Othello's subplot in 1.3?

The subplot in which Iago gets Cassio drunk and causes him to humiliate himself, also indicates the importance of "reputation, reputation, reputation.".

What is the most prominent form of prejudice in Othello?

The most prominent form of prejudice on display in Othello is racial prejudice. In the very first scene, Roderigo and Iago disparage Othello in explicitly racial terms, calling him, among other things, "Barbary horse" and "thick lips.".

Why is Othello susceptible to Iago's ploys?

Othello is susceptible to Iago's ploys because he himself is so honest and straightforward.

What evidence does Iago provide for Othello?

But Iago instead provides the circumstantial evidence of the handkerchief, which Othello, consumed by his jealousy, accepts as a substitute for "ocular proof.". Othello's jealousy impedes his ability to distinguish between reality and….

What does Iago mean by jealousy?

Iago refers to jealousy as the "green-eyed monster.". As this metaphor suggests, jealousy is closely associated with the theme of appearance and reality. For instance, at one point Othello demands that Iago provide "ocular proof" of Desdemona's infidelity—he demands to see reality.

What is the central conflict in Othello?

Jealousy. Jealousy motivates the central conflicts of Othello: Iago’s resentment of Othello, and Othello’s suspicion of Desdemona. Iago is immediately revealed as a jealous character: in the first scene, he complains that Cassio has been promoted instead of him even though “I am worth no worse a place” (1.1.).

Why is Othello a soldier?

The military also provides Othello with a means to gain acceptance in Venetian society. While the Venetians in the play are generally fearful of the prospect of Othello’s social entrance into white society through his marriage to Desdemona, all Venetians respect and honor him as a soldier. Mercenary Moors were, in fact, commonplace at the time. Othello predicates his success in love on his success as a soldier, wooing Desdemona with tales of his military travels and battles. Once the Turks are drowned—by natural rather than military might—Othello is left without anything to do: the last act of military administration we see him perform is the viewing of fortifications in the extremely short second scene of Act III.

How is Othello deceived?

In Othello, Othello simultaneously believes he is being deceived by characters who are honest while failing to see the deceit and treachery of characters who are tricking him. Othello refers to Iago as “honest” multiple times, showing that he is totally blind to the way Iago is tricking and manipulating him. Othello is so deceived by Iago, he believes Iago is actually incapable of lying: “I know thou’rt full of love and honesty / And weigh’st thy words before thou giv’st them breath” (3.3.).

What does Iago do to revenge Othello?

Appropriately, Iago decides to seek revenge by using jealousy as a weapon against Othello, “practicing upon his peace and quiet / Even to madness” (2.1.).

What is the epileptic fit of Othello?

Iago capitalizes on this uneasiness, calling Othello’s epileptic fit in Act IV, scene i, “ [a] passion most unsuiting such a man.” In other words, Iago is calling Othello unsoldierly. Iago also takes care to mention that Cassio, whom Othello believes to be his competitor, saw him in his emasculating trance (IV.i. 75 ). Desperate to cling to the security of his former identity as a soldier while his current identity as a lover crumbles, Othello begins to confuse the one with the other. His expression of his jealousy quickly devolves from the conventional—“Farewell the tranquil mind”—to the absurd:

How is Othello isolated from the other characters?

And, most prominently, Othello is visibly isolated from the other characters by his physical stature and the color of his skin. Iago is an expert at manipulating the distance between characters, isolating his victims so that they fall prey to their own obsessions.

What is commonplace at the time of Othello?

Mercenary Moors were, in fact, commonplace at the time. Othello predicates his success in love on his success as a soldier, wooing Desdemona with tales of his military travels and battles.

What is the theme of Shakespeare's Othello?

The text is a rich tapestry of plot, character, poetry, and theme – elements which come together to form one of the Bard's most engaging tragedies.

What is the story of Othello about?

The story of Othello is propelled by feelings of intense jealousy. All of the action and consequences that unfold are the result of jealousy. Iago is jealous of Cassio’s appointment as lieutenant over him, he also believes that Othello has had an affair with Emilia, his wife, and harbors plans for revenge on him as a result.

Why does Othello believe Iago over his wife?

This mistake of judgment leads to his downfall. Othello is prepared to believe Iago over his own wife because of his faith in his servant’s honesty; “This fellow’s of exceeding honesty” (Othello, Act 3 Scene 3 ). He doesn’t see any reason why Iago might double cross him.

Why is Iago envious of Othello?

Iago also appears to be envious of Othello’s standing in Venetian society; despite his race, he has been celebrated and accepted in society. Desdemona’s acceptance of Othello as a worthy husband demonstrates this and this acceptance is due to Othello’s valor as a soldier, Iago is envious of Othello’s position.

Why did Iago kill Roderigo?

Iago’s treatment of Roderigo is also duplicitous, treating him as a friend or at least a comrade with a common goal, only to kill him in order to cover up his own guilt. Fortunately, Roderigo was savvier to Iago’s duplicity than he knew, hence the letters exposing him.

Why is Othello important?

Othello holds an important position of power and influence. He has been accepted into Venetian society based on his bravery as a soldier. Iago uses Othello’s race to ridicule and belittle him, at one point calling him “thick lips”.

Who is convinced that Othello has used trickery to get Desdemona to marry him?

Brabanzio is convinced that Othello has used trickery to get Desdemona to marry him:

What is the theme of Othello?

Another theme that reasserts itself from time to time in the play is that of racial prejudice. Othello is aware of the prejudice against him and that despite being a valiant soldier, he is not someone who belongs to the Venetian lot. It also fills him with an inferiority complex; something that makes him vulnerable to Iago’s vicious plan. Iago does not attack him directly but weakens him by sowing doubts in his mind about his wife’s character. Still, it is the inferiority complex in Othello that makes him a vulnerable target.

What is the love and hatred of Othello?

Love, passion, and hatred are at the core of Othello. The drama begins with Othello and Desdemona falling in love and ends when Othello’s hatred for his beautiful lover is at its peak and makes him murder her. On the one side, there is an intense love and on the other, equally intense hatred. Othello and Desdemona fall in love and their love is deep and pure until Iago has injected poison into their relationship. Iago is full of hatred for Othello and he cannot help it because it’s in his nature to backstab others.

Why does Othello stop believing his heart?

However, Othello stops believing his own heart once Iago has spoiled his ears. His mind cannot listen to his conscience and he believes everything Iago says. Iago cannot be loyal to anyone because of his false ego and for his evil nature. Desdemona’s and Cassio’s betrayal is a lie but Othello is confused and his mind clouded because ...

Why does Desdemona hate the Moor?

He hates the Moor for being his senior, for being from an inferior race and for having promoted Cassio in his place. Desdemona’s love is true but Othello cannot survive deception. He cannot bear being cuckolded and his hatred gets just as strong as his love was at the beginning.

Why is Cassio's relationship with Bianca weak?

In the case of Cassio and Bianca, their relationship is weak for it lacks dignity. Overall, personal relationships in Othello are a poor mess and the mess grows till relationships have stretched too far and broken.

Is Othello a lion?

Othello has the strong heart of a lion when it comes to military affairs but in terms of personal relationships, he is highly unstable, and lacking in terms of patience and confidence. Iago does not have much time or value for such things. In the case of Cassio and Bianca, their relationship is weak for it lacks dignity.

Does Iago attack Othello?

Iago does not attack him directly but weakens him by sowing doubts in his mind about his wife’s character. Still, it is the inferiority complex in Othello that makes him a vulnerable target. His color turns him into a target and Iago finds it easy to isolate him.

What are the themes of Othello?

Themes are central to understanding Othello as a play and identify ing Shakespeare' s social and political commentary . In Othello, the major themes reflect the values and the motivations of characters. Love. In Othello, love is a force that overcomes large obstacles and is tripped up by small ones. It is eternal, yet derail-able.

What is the importance of appearance and reality in Othello?

Appearance and reality are important aspects in Othello. For Othello, seeing is believing, and proof of the truth is visual. To "prove" something is to investigate it to the point where its true nature is revealed.

What does Iago think of Othello?

Iago has noticed Othello's tendency to insecurity and overreaction, but not even Iago imagined Othello would go as far into jealousy as he did. Jealousy forces Othello's mind so tightly on one idea, the idea that Desdemona has betrayed him with Cassio, that no other assurance or explanation can penetrate.

What happens when Othello kills Desdemona?

Upon seeing that she was innocent and that he killed her unjustly, Othello recovers. He can again see his life in proportion and grieve at the terrible thing he has done. Once again, he speaks with calm rationality, judging and condemning and finally executing himself.

How does Desdemona cope with prejudice?

Shakespeare's Desdemona copes with prejudice by denying it access to her own life. Her relationship with Othello is one of love, and she is deliberately loyal only to her marriage.

What is jealousy in Othello?

Jealousy is what appears to destroy Othello. It is the emotion suggested to him by Iago in Act 3, Scene 3. Iago thinks he knows jealousy, having rehearsed it in his relationship with Emilia to the extent that Emilia believes jealousy is part of the personality of men, but Iago's jealously is a poor, weak thought compared to the storm of jealousy he stirs up in Othello.

What does Othello find in his marriage?

Othello finds that love in marriage needs time to build trust, and his enemy works too quickly for him to take that time. The immediate attraction between the couple works on passion, and Desdemona builds on that passion a steadfast devotion whose speed and strength Othello cannot equal.

What is the theme of Othello?

Othello is the most famous literary work that focuses on the theme of jealousy. It runs through an entire text and affects almost every central character. One might even say that jealousy is the main theme of Othello. However, the exploration of racism, sexism, and deception is essential to the play.

How does the girl fall in love with Othello?

She falls in love with Othello through the stories about his heroic past. In a way, she falls in love with the representation of Othello and not with Othello himself. She does not know him very well. Therefore she cannot immediately understand what causes this sudden change in Othello’s behavior.

Why is Iago jealous of Othello?

Iago, the actuator of the plot, is jealous and hateful towards Othello because he did not get the position of Lieutenant. Iago cannot stand others being more successful than he is, and that is why he comes up with a plan of revenge. Besides the professional jealousy that Iago has towards Othello, he is also jealous of Cassio, the solder that was promoted ahead of Iago. He claims:

What does Othello compare himself to in his last speech?

In his last speech, Othello compares himself with “a circumcised dog,” reducing himself to the lowest of the lowest. It drastically contrasts with the way Othello describes Desdemona in this last speech. He says:

Why does Desdemona have power over Othello?

Alongside the female oppression in Othello and continuous female abuse in Othello, Desdemona has power over her husband due to her sexuality. Desdemona is not afraid to use her sexuality to persuade Othello. For instance, when she decides to talk about Cassio’s case, Desdemona knows how strong her influence on Othello is. Otherwise, she would not agree to talk to Othello about that. She is beautiful, she is young, and Othello desires her.

Why is Bianca a character?

Bianca is a crucial character because she creates a parallel with Othello, a parallel with Desdemona, and a parallel with Emilia. She is not involved in scheming, Iago is not trying to use her in his plot, and she has the authority of her own.

How many female characters are there in Othello?

There are only three female characters in Othello —Desdemona, Emilia, and Bianca. All of them are maltreated by their partners. These three females have different socioeconomic statuses, and it dictates the way male characters approach them and the level of freedom and respect they get.

What is the theme of Othello and Desdemona?

Othello and Desdemona defending their love is an example of the theme of racism in Othello.

What is Othello based on?

Othello is based largely on jealousy and misinformation . Many texts, especially plays, use these ideas to create conflict between characters and thereby advance the plot. Think of another work, either by Shakespeare or another writer, that employs misinformation in a similar way to Othello. Write an essay comparing and contrasting the two works. Is one more effective than the other? How does misinformation contribute to the dramatic irony of the play?

How does Iago manipulate Othello?

Iago manipulates Othello, Rodrigo, and Cassio by targeting their insecurities and desires. He uses Rodrigo's jealousy over Desdemona choosing Othello to get Rodrigo to hire him to ruin Othello. He uses racist accusations of bewitchment, appealing to Desdemona's father's pride in his social standing, to isolate Desdemona. Iago then convinces Othello he is his only friend while stoking his jealousy of Cassio, who was promoted in Iago's place.

What is the titular character in Othello?

The titular character is a Moor, and many characters judge him on the basis of his skin. When Othello elopes with a white woman, Iago tells the woman's father that 'even now, an old black ram/is tupping your white ewe', thereby equating Othello and Desdemona with animals (Act 1, Scene 1, lines 97-98).

What is the ultimate power of Othello?

Within Othello, the ultimate power is arbitrary: it rests with societal expectations. Othello is a powerful military commander, yet he is vulnerable to attacks upon his character and mindset because of racism. Cassio is also a successful military man, but he still cannot marry Bianca because of classism. Desdemona is the daughter of a wealthy man, but her father has the ultimate say in whom she weds because of sexism; hence, Desdemona opts to elope with Othello. If power is ultimately given to people based on factors they cannot help (class, race, gender), then what is Shakespeare saying about the nature of power?

Why is Othello considered a Shakespeare play?

Othello is considered one of the more challenging Shakespeare plays to stage because of the racism in the text. Other such plays include The Taming of the Shrew and The Merchant of Venice. Consider these plays carefully. What are their merits? What are their drawbacks? Write a paragraph explaining your thoughts: should these plays be staged? How can theatre directors and actors work to stage them in a way that works for modern audiences?

What is the origin of Othello?

William Shakespeare's Othello, written in 1603 or 1604, was an adaptation of an Italian short story . One of Shakespeare's most iconic tragedies, Othello 's appeal has lasted over four centuries in part due to its timeless themes.

The Incompatibility of Military Heroism & Love

The Danger of Isolation

Jealousy

Deception and Treachery

• In Othello, Othello simultaneously believes he is being deceived by characters who are honest while failing to see the deceit and treachery of characters who are tricking him. Othello refers to Iago as “honest” multiple times, showing that he is totally blind to the way Iago is tricking and manipulating him. Othello is so deceived by Iago, he belie...

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Justice

Relationships Can Be Painful

Love and Hatred

Loyalty and Betrayal

• Another important theme in the drama is that of loyalty and betrayal. Whether it is Cassio or Desdemona, both are loyal to Othello. However, Othello stops believing his own heart once Iago has spoiled his ears. His mind cannot listen to his conscience and he believes everything Iago says. Iago cannot be loyal to anyone because of his false ego and ...

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Racial Prejudice

Courage and Cowardice