Themes: Tragedy
In Othello, the theme of tragedy is central, defined by the downfall of the noble protagonist, Othello, due to his tragic flaw. The play diverges from the Greek ideal of tragedy, which focuses on a hero's flaw leading to their doom, yet it retains key elements such as the exceptional nature of the tragic hero and the presence of a fatal flaw. Othello's jealousy and misplaced trust in Iago catalyze his tragic end, intertwining themes of fate, catharsis, and the struggle between good and evil.
Othello, a Moorish general in the Venetian army, embodies the tragic hero. His status as an outsider due to his race and his noble standing make him an exceptional figure. His tragic flaw, or hamartia, is his susceptibility to jealousy and insecurity, which Iago exploits. This flaw leads to his mistrust of Desdemona and ultimately her murder. Othello's downfall evokes fear and pity, achieving the cathartic effect typical of tragedy.
The setting of the play contributes significantly to its tragic nature. The transition from Venice, a symbol of order and civilization, to Cyprus, a place of chaos and isolation, mirrors Othello's descent into madness. In Venice, Othello is respected and in control, but in Cyprus, he becomes vulnerable to Iago's manipulations. This geographical symbolism underscores the themes of racial and cultural conflict, heightening the tragedy.
Desdemona's role in the tragedy is complex. Her innocence and loyalty make her an easy target for Iago's schemes. Her loss of the handkerchief, a symbol of Othello's love, and her subsequent lies about it, fuel Othello's jealousy. Despite her strengths, such as her defiance of societal norms, her naivety and inability to perceive deceit contribute to her tragic end.
The tragedy in Othello is further compounded by the role of chance and accident. The entire plot hinges on the accidental loss of the handkerchief, which Iago uses to convince Othello of Desdemona's infidelity. Emilia's failure to reveal the truth about the handkerchief until it is too late highlights the role of miscommunication and misunderstanding in the tragedy. This reliance on accident and luck rather than pure cleverness detracts from the traditional notion of a tragic flaw leading to inevitable doom, yet it underscores the chaotic and unpredictable nature of human life.
Expert Q&A
In Othello, what is Othello referring to when he says: "It is the cause, it is the cause, my soul."
When Othello says, "It is the cause, it is the cause, my soul," he is referring to his justification for killing Desdemona, which he believes is her supposed adultery. This repetition indicates Othello's need to convince himself of the righteousness of his actions. He addresses his "soul," highlighting the internal conflict he faces, and refuses to name the "cause" aloud, fearing it might taint the purity of the "chaste stars."
What is the conclusion of Othello?
Othello concludes with Othello, driven by Iago's manipulations and his own jealousy, killing Desdemona. Emilia reveals Iago's deceit, leading Iago to kill her. Othello, realizing Desdemona's innocence, takes his own life. Iago is captured but refuses to confess, and Cassio is appointed in charge of Cyprus. The play ends tragically with multiple deaths, highlighting the destructive power of jealousy.
What is the explanation of this quote from Othello?
Yet this is the curse of honorable
Prerogativ'd are they less than the base.
Tis destiny unshunnable like death.
Even then this forked plague is fated to us when e do quicken.
This quote from Othello reflects Othello's realization that men of high status, like himself, are destined to face certain tragedies due to their rank. In his soliloquy, Othello acknowledges his fate and hints at the inevitability of his downfall, driven by his tragic flaw. This moment foreshadows his eventual succumbing to jealousy and the belief in Desdemona's infidelity.
What is the ultimate message in Shakespeare's Othello?
The ultimate message in "Othello" reflects on themes of racism, jealousy, and the dangers of trusting unconfirmed rumors. The play highlights the destructive power of jealousy, as Iago manipulates Othello's insecurities, leading to tragedy. Additionally, it explores racial stereotypes prevalent in Shakespeare's time, showing Othello's initial defiance and eventual downfall. Ultimately, the play warns against acting on rumors, as Othello's belief in Iago's lies leads to his and Desdemona's demise.
Do Othello and Desdemona get what they deserve?
How does evil overcome good in Shakespeare's Othello?
Discuss the relationship between love and hate in Othello.
In "Othello," love and hate are intertwined as Desdemona and Othello's genuine love is destroyed by Iago's hatred. Iago's animosity stems from personal grievances and racial prejudice, leading him to exploit Othello's insecurities about his worthiness of Desdemona's love. This manipulation, fueled by societal racism and sexism, ultimately leads to tragedy. The play illustrates how love is vulnerable to external societal forces like hate, echoing themes seen in Romeo and Juliet.
What is the significance of Othello being a domestic tragedy?
Analyze the injustice against individuals in Othello.
While many of the characters in Othello are concerned with questions of justice, injustice against individuals permeates the story. The plot begins with Iago believing he has been dealt a great injustice when Othello passes him over for a promotion.
Shakespeare's techniques for establishing conflict, tension, and confusion in the initial scenes of Othello
In the opening scenes of Othello, Shakespeare establishes conflict, tension, and confusion through dramatic irony, foreshadowing, and vivid imagery. The use of Iago's deceit and manipulation, combined with the chaotic and dark setting, sets a tone of uncertainty and impending doom, effectively drawing the audience into the play's central conflicts.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.
