I need to write an essay on the character of Othello. Can anyone give me hints on the structure of the answer?

Expert Answers

An illustration of the letter 'A' in a speech bubbles

Essentially, Othello can be defined by look at Iago as his foil. Othello is very idealistic and therefore sees things in a very ideal manner. Pay attention to how singularly focused Othello becomes after Iago convinces him that Desdemona is sleeping with Cassio. Iago is able to project his distorted view of the world in Othello's mind adn cause Othello to act in a tragic manner. If you wish to write an essay on Othello, you might want to chart his change after scene three.

Approved by eNotes Editorial Team
An illustration of the letter 'A' in a speech bubbles

You would start such an essay from two directions. First, you'd figure out what you think of Othello. Who is he, essentially? What are his defining characteristics? The section of the enotes study guide analyzing him would help with that: http://www.enotes.com/othello/36679

Second, you'd approach the assignment from the essay side. What will you prove, show, or argue about Othello? Focus on developing that answer into a good clear thesis and you're on your way.

See eNotes Ad-Free

Start your 48-hour free trial to get access to more than 30,000 additional guides and more than 350,000 Homework Help questions answered by our experts.

Get 48 Hours Free Access
Approved by eNotes Editorial Team