Othello Themes
- Trust and deception: The relationships in Othello often exist on the line between trust and deception, with treacherous Iago commanding trust and honest Desdemona receiving doubt.
- Race and the outsider: Othello's Moorish background places him at a distance from his peers, despite his sterling reputation.
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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 is a good thesis for Othello?
If you need more sample ideas for your Othello essay outline, check them below:
- The role of race in Shakespeare’s tragedy. At the beginning of the plot, Othello’s name is not mentioned, although everyone knows he is dark-skinned and different. ...
- The role of loyalty. Shakespeare showed how loyalty could have both positive and negative attributes. ...
- The role of Desdemona. ...
- Relationships between characters in the play. ...
How is the theme of jealousy presented in Othello?
”The play of Othello shows that power jealousy can overcome people and take control of them. In the play at a point or another each character experiences jealousy for each other, this can be a very dangerous attribute. Jealousy creates power struggles, his mistrust between his and his loved ones and results in him losing what he loves the most.
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 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 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:
Who is Othello's trust in the play?
Unfortunately for Othello, the man who he trusts in the play, Iago, is not what he seems he is scheming, duplicitous and has a deep malevolent loathing for his master. Othello is made to believe that Cassio and Desdemona are the duplicitous ones. This mistake of judgment leads to his downfall.
What are the themes of Othello?
Major themes In Othello are love, jealousy, racial prejudice, appearance versus reality, expectations versus outcome and intrigue.
What is the demise of Othello based on?
The demise of the Othello is based on Jealousy that results what Iago wants. What Iago reveals about the jealousy is, “O beware jealousy; / It is the green ey’d monster, which doth mock / That meat it feeds on” (Act III. scene3, lines 169–170). Iago thinks he knows about jealousy, but his jealousy is not strong as compared to the storm of jealousy he stirs up in Othello. Iago was not aware that his seed of jealousy grown in mind of Othello would grow into very poisonous oaks. Othello’s jealousy was like a furious storm from where escape was not possible. The peak of jealousy was only based on one idea, the idea that his wife, Desdemona, has betrayed him with Cassio, that no other explanation or assurance can penetrate. Jealousy drives him so mad that he cannot stop himself to kill his own beloved wife. Iago avails every chance to raise his jealousy by adding more lies and manipulating those lies into reality for him and he was not aware about motives of his so-called Honest Iago.
What is the marriage of Othello and Desdemona based on?
The marriage of Othello and Desdemona was based on true love but Othello fails to recognize love of her wife, Desdemona, shortly. Initially Othello believes that he is devoted to love but he is defeated in love at the end. He has achieved many victories in the battlefield but in his own home, he loses the battle of love.
What does Iago think of Othello?
Iago thinks he knows about jealousy, but his jealousy is not strong as compared to the storm of jealousy he stirs up in Othello. Iago was not aware that his seed of jealousy grown in mind of Othello would grow into very poisonous oaks. Othello’s jealousy was like a furious storm from where escape was not possible.
What are the different types of love in the play?
We can see different types of love in the play: Desdemona’s love for Othello, Othello’s love for Desdemona, Emilia’s love for her mistress, Desdemona’s love for her maid, Desdemona’s affections for Cassio, Iago’s love for money, Roderigo’s love for Desdemona, are the few examples of the love in the play. The marriage of Othello and Desdemona was ...
What was Othello's jealousy?
Othello’s jealousy was like a furious storm from where escape was not possible. The peak of jealousy was only based on one idea, the idea that his wife, Desdemona, has betrayed him with Cassio, that no other explanation or assurance can penetrate.
Is Desdemona's love in friendship real?
Desdemona’s love in friendship for Cassio is real because she knows that Cassio and Othello are best friends from a long period but the jealous Othello interprets it as adulterous love. We witness Emilia’s true love in friendship for Desdemona. She stood up to witness for the honor of her dead mistress against her own lying husband, Iago, and was killed for her love for her mistress. Iago uses the word “love” in a wider and falser manner than the others. Iago even says he loves Desdemona but his intentions were different from others, he could feel some sexual attraction for her. For Iago, love is nothing but leverage.
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.).
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 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 Othello's fair warrior?
She is, indeed, Othello’s “fair warrior,” and he is happiest when he has her by his side in the midst of military conflict or business (II.i. 179 ). The military also provides Othello with a means to gain acceptance in Venetian society.
Where does Othello move?
The action of Othello moves from the metropolis of Venice to the island of Cyprus. Protected by military fortifications as well as by the forces of nature, Cyprus faces little threat from external forces. Once Othello, Iago, Desdemona, Emilia, and Roderigo have come to Cyprus, they have nothing to do but prey upon one another.
Is Othello a soldier?
The Incompatibility of Military Heroism & Love. Before and above all else, Othello is a soldier. From the earliest moments in the play, his career affects his married life. Asking “fit disposition” for his wife after being ordered to Cyprus (I.iii. 234 ), Othello notes that “the tyrant custom . . . / Hath made the flinty and steel couch ...
What is the theme of Iago's battle with Othello?
Iago's battle against Othello and Cassio certainly counts as an embodiment of this theme. Iago and his evil battle to corrupt and turn the flawed natures of other characters, and he does succeed to some extent. By the end of the play, neither has won, as Desdemona and Emilia are both dead, and Iago revealed and punished. Othello is a tragic character, but one that is neither good nor evil. His flaws are easily manipulated, and he is unable to see the truth while blinded by pride. He is a good soldier and a good man, but this good is twisted and he commits an evil act.
Why is Othello so proud of himself?
The allegations of Desdemona's affair hurt his pride even more than they inflame his vanity and jealousy; he wants to appear powerful, accomplished, and moral at every possible instance , and when this is almost denied to him, his wounded pride becomes especially powerful.
What makes Othello easy prey for Iago?
Othello's lack of self-knowledge makes him easy prey for Iago. Once Iago inflames Othello's jealousy and sets the darker aspects of Othello's nature in motion, there is nothing Othello can do to stop it, since he cannot even admit that he has these darker traits. Even after he has murdered his wife, and has learned that Iago set a trap for him, Othello is unable to acknowledge the character flaws that were manipulated. He asserts he is "honorable" even in murder. This theme is related to pride, as Othello's pride blinds him to his weaknesses, precipitating his downfall.
Why is race important in Othello?
Race is an extremely important theme, as it leads to Othello's insecurity, which Iago is able to manipulate. Despite his standing and military prowess, Othello never feels comfortable in Venice because of his otherness. As a Moor, he is constantly stereotyped as "savage" or "animal", even though he speaks eloquently and displays more gentlemanly qualities than those who judge him. Thus, Othello perceives himself to be a rough outsider, though he is nothing of the sort. Othello's race sets him apart, and makes him very self-conscious; it makes him work hard and look carefully after his reputation, so he is regarded as equal to the white people that surround him. This has perhaps led to his success, but the prejudice that surrounds him - especially with respect to his marriage to Desdemona - has tragic consequences.
What is the meaning of Desdemona in Othello?
The ruin of innocence is a key ingredient to tragedy, but one could interpret that Desdemona did not have to suffer her fate. Othello represents a grey area between good and evil, where self-interest clouds even the best intentions, and people on both sides end up dead.
What is Iago's character?
Especially relevant to the issue of Iago 's character; for although he is called "honest" by almost everyone in the play, he is treacherous, deceitful, and manipulative. This also applies to Desdemona, as Othello believes that she is deceitful and impure, although she is really blameless and innocent. This theme contributes greatly to the tragedy, as Iago is able to engineer his schemes due to the perception of others of his honesty. Othello's decision to murder his wife is hastened by a conversation in which Cassio speaks of Bianca; Othello assumes the man is talking about an affair with Desdemona.
What is Othello's decision to murder his wife?
Othello's decision to murder his wife is hastened by a conversation in which Cassio speaks of Bianca; Othello assumes the man is talking about an affair with Desdemona. Misrepresentation allows Iago to gain trust and manipulate other people; he is able to appear to be "honest," in order to deceive and misdirect people.
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 meaning of the play Othello?
Othello is tragedy written by William Shakespeare, that demonstrates the power and strength of reputation. The play describes how Othello and Desdemona attempt to build a life together, disregarding their ]
What does Othello believe about Cassio?
6.Othello also believes the story about Cassio wiping his beard on the valuable handkerchief. The only ‘proof’ is Iago’s word, which is a lie. Othello is fooled in other ways too – he hears a scream and then assumes Cassio is dead, but he is only injured. However, the most important difference between reality and appearance is that Othello continues to think that Iago is of ‘exceeding honesty’, but everyone in the audience knows this isn’t the case.
What does Othello say about Desdemona?
The ugly imagery that follows this declaration of abandonment—Othello finds Desdemona to be a mere “creature” of “appetite” and imagines himself as a “toad” in a “dungeon”—anticipates his later speech in Act IV, scene ii, in which he compares Desdemona to a “cistern for foul toads / To knot and gender in,” and says that she is as honest “as summer flies are in the shambles [slaughterhouses], / That quicken even with blowing” (IV.ii.63–64, 68–69). Othello’s comment, “’tis the plague of great ones,” shows that the only potential comfort Othello finds in his moment of hopelessness is his success as a soldier, which proves that he is not “base.” He attempts to consider his wife’s purported infidelity as an inevitable part of his being a great man, but his comfort is halfhearted and unconvincing, and he concludes by resigning himself to cuckoldry as though it were “death.”
Why is Iago upset in Jealousy 1?
Jealousy 1: The play opens with a discussion of jealousy. Iago is upset because Othello selected Michael Cassio as his lieutenant. He is jealous of Cassio’s position both in the military and with Othello’s service. This initial jealousy is the catalyst for the play’s sequential plot of mixed jealousy and destruction.
What is the gender relationship in Othello?
Gender relations are pretty antagonistic in Othello. Unmarried women are regarded as their fathers’ property and the play’s two marriages are marked by male jealousy and cruelty (both wives are murdered by their own husbands). Most male characters in Othello assume that all Venetian women are inherently promiscuous, which explains why female sexuality is a huge threat to men in the play. Othello is easily convinced his wife is cheating on him and feels emasculated and humiliated as a result.
What is the purpose of Othello's decision to kill Desdemona?
He believes himself to be cuckolded by Desdemona and must defend his honour. At the same time, he feels that he must defend mankind and all other men from a woman who would betray her husband so. He ultimately decides that he must end her life. In Othello, Shakespeare explores factors that play an important role in the formations of one’s identity – race, gender, social status, family relationships, military service, etc. Othello is also concerned with how an individual’s sense of identity (which can break down and be manipulated by others) shapes his or her actions.
When was Othello written?
It was written around 1604 ]
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 are the main themes of Desdemona?
The main themes of the play include love, an inconsistency of the military heroism, and fear of isolation. The symbols of the play are the handkerchief, and the song “willow”.
How does Othello confuse his identity?
Othello confuses his identities (being soldier and lover) while desperately adhering to his former identity i.e. of a soldier. The manifestation of his possessiveness rapidly transfers from the conformist i.e. “Farewell the peaceful mind” to the bizarre. One can easily guess that Othello is leaving bad habit and is completely occupied with his identity as a soldier.
What does Brabanzio do to Othello?
There they find out that Othello is gone to have a meeting with the duke so Brabanzio decides to accuse Othello in front of the duke and accumulated senate. The plan of Brabanzio backfires. The Senate and the duke are on the side of Othello and shows sympathy toward him. Othello is given a chance to defend himself.
Why does Iago hate Othello?
Iago claims that he hates Othello as he, in favor of soldier Cassio, has promoted to the rank of lieutenant and passed over Iago. Iago and Roderigo go to inform Brabanzio that his daughter Desdemona has been kidnapped and married to Othello, the Moor. Brabanzio gathers some officers in search of Othello.
How old is Iago in Othello?
He is Othello’s ensign (an ancient job), and the antagonist of the play. He is about Twenty-eight years old. He deliberately hates Othello just because he has been promoted to the rank of lieutenant. Iago’s seeks revenge from the Othello by making him against his dear ones. His motivations, throughout the play, are never expressed clearly as if they originate in obsessive and he seems to find aesthetic joy in destruction and manipulation people.
Where is Othello sent to?
As Othello was a soldier, we see throughout the play that his married life is much affected. Just as he gets married, he is sent to Cyprus. In Cyprus when he tries to enjoy his marriage, an emergency alarm is rung in the whole town, though the matter was not that serious. We see that he asks for “fit disposition” for his wife.
Who does Iago give Othello a handkerchief to?
He gives that handkerchief to Bianca, a prostitute to copy its embroidery for him. Too much consumed by jealousy, Othello falls into abstraction and has fits of epilepsy. Othello writes something on the ground, meanwhile, Cassio enters but Iago tells him to return a few minutes back. Here Iago plays another game.