Othello | William Shakespeare
“Othello” is a tragedy written by William Shakespeare, believed to have been written in 1603. The play revolves around Othello, a Moorish general in the Venetian army, and his ensign, Iago. The central theme is jealousy and its destructive consequences.
The plot unfolds as Iago manipulates Othello into believing that his wife, Desdemona, is unfaithful. Iago’s deceitful tactics lead Othello to become consumed by jealousy and suspicion. As a result, Othello’s trust in Desdemona erodes, and he becomes increasingly irrational.
The climax of the play occurs when Othello, overwhelmed by jealousy, murders Desdemona. Later, he discovers the truth about Iago’s deception, leading to a tragic resolution. Othello, realizing the gravity of his actions, takes his own life. The play explores themes of racism, love, betrayal, and the destructive power of jealousy, making it one of Shakespeare’s most intense and emotionally charged tragedies.
Quotes
“I am one, sir, that comes to tell you your daughter and the Moor are now making the beast with two backs.” – Iago, Act 1, Scene 1
“Good name in man and woman, dear my lord, Is the immediate jewel of their souls: Who steals my purse steals trash; ’tis something, nothing; ‘Twas mine, ’tis his, and has been slave to thousands; But he that filches from me my good name Robs me of that which not enriches him, And makes me poor indeed.” – Iago, Act 3, Scene 3
“O, beware, my lord, of jealousy! It is the green-eyed monster which doth mock The meat it feeds on.” – Iago, Act 3, Scene 3
“I kiss’d thee ere I kill’d thee: no way but this; Killing myself, to die upon a kiss.” – Othello, Act 5, Scene 2
“It is the cause, it is the cause, my soul, — Let me not name it to you, you chaste stars! — It is the cause. Yet I’ll not shed her blood; Nor scar that whiter skin of hers than snow, And smooth as monumental alabaster.” – Othello, Act 5, Scene 2
“This look of thine will hurl my soul from heaven, And fiends will snatch at it. Cold, cold, my girl! Even like thy chastity. O cursed, cursed slave! Whip me, ye devils, From the possession of this heavenly sight! Blow me about in winds! roast me in sulfur! Wash me in steep-down gulfs of liquid fire!” – Othello, Act 5, Scene 2
“I bleed, sir; but not kill’d.” – Cassio, Act 5, Scene 1
“I will be found most cunning in my patience; But — dost thou hear? — most bloody.” – Iago, Act 2, Scene 3
“He that is robb’d, not wanting what is stolen, Let him not know’t, and he’s not robb’d at all.” – Othello, Act 3, Scene 3
“I know not that; but such a handkerchief — I am sure it was your wife’s — did I today See Cassio wipe his beard with.” – Iago, Act 3, Scene 3
“I pray you, in your letters, When you shall these unlucky deeds relate, Speak of me as I am. Nothing extenuate, Nor set down aught in malice. Then must you speak Of one that loved not wisely, but too well.” – Othello, Act 5, Scene 2
“But I do think it is their husbands’ faults If wives do fall: say that they slack their duties And pour our treasures into foreign laps, Or else break out in peevish jealousies, Throwing restraint upon us; or say they strike us, Or scant our former having in despite; Why, we have galls, and though we have some grace, Yet have we some revenge.” – Emilia, Act 4, Scene 3
“Villain, be sure thou prove my love a whore! Be sure of it. Give me the ocular proof; Or by the worth of mine eternal soul, Thou hadst been better have been born a dog Than answer my waked wrath!” – Othello, Act 3, Scene 3
“But, O, what damned minutes tells he o’er Who dotes, yet doubts, suspects, yet strongly loves!” – Desdemona, Act 3, Scene 3
“I’ll see before I doubt; when I doubt, prove; And on the proof, there is no more but this: Away at once with love or jealousy!” – Othello, Act 3, Scene 3
“If after every tempest come such calms, May the winds blow till they have waken’d death! And let the laboring bark climb hills of seas Olympus-high and duck again as low As hell’s from heaven!” – Othello, Act 2, Scene 1
“Excellent wretch! Perdition catch my soul But I do love thee! And when I love thee not, Chaos is come again.” – Othello, Act 3, Scene 3
“I should be wise, for honesty’s a fool And loses that it works for.” – Iago, Act 3, Scene 3
“Reputation is an idle and most false imposition: oft got without merit and lost without deserving.” – Iago, Act 2, Scene 3
“Our bodies are our gardens, to the which our wills are gardeners.” – Iago, Act 1, Scene 3
Themes
Jealousy: Perhaps the central theme of the play, jealousy drives the characters to make irrational decisions and engage in destructive behavior. Iago’s manipulation exploits Othello’s insecurities, leading to tragic consequences.
Race and Otherness: Othello, as a Moor in a predominantly white society, grapples with issues of race and otherness. The play highlights the racial prejudices that exist and explores how they contribute to Othello’s sense of alienation.
Love and Marriage: The play depicts different forms of love and the complexities of marital relationships. The love between Othello and Desdemona is contrasted with the toxic relationship between Iago and Emilia.
Manipulation and Deception: Iago’s manipulation of those around him is a driving force in the play. The theme of deception is explored as characters are misled by Iago’s cunning schemes, leading to tragic outcomes.
Appearance vs. Reality: Characters often misinterpret situations, leading to tragic consequences. The contrast between how things appear and the reality of the situation is a recurring motif.
Honor and Reputation: Othello is deeply concerned with his honor and reputation, and this concern becomes a vulnerability that Iago exploits. Cassio’s reputation is also at stake, and the characters grapple with the importance of public perception.
Power and Authority: The play explores power dynamics both in the military and in personal relationships. Othello’s position as a military leader and the power struggles within the play contribute to the overall tension.
Sexual Politics: The play touches on issues of gender and sexuality. Desdemona’s agency, Emilia’s views on marital relationships, and the treatment of women in the society of the play are all elements that contribute to this theme.
Fate and Free Will: The characters’ destinies seem to be shaped by both their own choices and external manipulations. The play raises questions about the extent to which individuals have control over their own lives.
These themes in Othello, woven together in the intricate plot, contribute to the complexity and enduring impact of “Othello” as a tragic exploration of human nature and society.
Imagery
Animal Imagery: Throughout the play, especially in Iago’s speeches, there is a recurring use of animal imagery to dehumanize and degrade characters. Othello is often referred to as an “old black ram,” Desdemona as a “white ewe,” and Iago compares Cassio to a garden for which he is the weeder.
Light and Darkness: Imagery of light and darkness is used to represent good and evil, truth and deceit. Othello often speaks of Desdemona’s purity as a bright light, while Iago frequently associates himself with darkness.
Heavenly Bodies: References to celestial bodies, such as stars and the moon, are used to symbolize fate, destiny, and the cosmic forces influencing human lives. Desdemona herself uses this imagery in describing her love for Othello.
Green-Eyed Monster: The famous metaphor for jealousy is presented by Iago when he speaks of the “green-eyed monster” that doth mock the meat it feeds on. This vivid imagery captures the destructive nature of jealousy.
Handkerchief: The handkerchief, a gift from Othello to Desdemona, becomes a powerful symbol in the play. Its white color symbolizes purity, and its loss becomes a catalyst for Othello’s increasing jealousy.
Garden Imagery: In the play, characters are often compared to plants, and love is portrayed as a delicate flower. Iago, in particular, uses garden imagery to describe his manipulation of those around him.
Military Imagery: Given Othello’s role as a military general, the play is rife with imagery related to warfare. Othello frequently uses militaristic language, and references to battles, soldiers, and strategy abound.
Poison Imagery: Iago often employs imagery associated with poison and disease, highlighting the corrosive nature of his schemes. This imagery reinforces the idea that Iago’s manipulation is a toxic force.
Moor Imagery: Othello’s race is frequently described using imagery associated with darkness and blackness. This racial imagery reflects the prejudices of the time and contributes to Othello’s sense of otherness.
These images and use of imagery, not only serve to create a vivid and evocative atmosphere in the play but also contribute to the deeper themes and emotions explored in “Othello.”
Characters
Othello: The protagonist of the play, Othello is a Moorish general in the Venetian army. He is well-respected for his military prowess but becomes tragically consumed by jealousy. Othello is a complex character, noble yet vulnerable to manipulation.
Desdemona: Othello’s wife and the daughter of a Venetian nobleman, Desdemona is a virtuous and innocent woman. She becomes the target of Iago’s schemes, leading to tragic consequences.
Iago: The main antagonist of the play, Iago is Othello’s ensign. He is a master manipulator and a cunning villain. Iago’s motives for orchestrating the downfall of Othello are complex and often attributed to jealousy and a desire for revenge.
Cassio: Othello’s loyal and honorable lieutenant, Michael Cassio is well-liked and respected by his peers. Iago uses Cassio as a pawn in his schemes to manipulate Othello.
Emilia: Iago’s wife and Desdemona’s maid, Emilia plays a significant role in the unfolding of events. She becomes instrumental in revealing Iago’s deceit and manipulation.
Brabantio: Desdemona’s father and a Venetian senator, Brabantio is initially upset by his daughter’s marriage to Othello due to racial and cultural differences.
Roderigo: A wealthy Venetian who is infatuated with Desdemona, Roderigo becomes a pawn in Iago’s schemes. Iago uses Roderigo’s feelings for Desdemona to further his own plans.
Duke of Venice: The political leader of Venice, the Duke is involved in military matters and plays a role in the resolution of the conflict between Othello and Brabantio.
Criticisms of Othello
Racial Stereotyping: One of the major criticisms of “Othello” is the racial stereotyping and the portrayal of Othello as an outsider due to his Moorish origins. The play reflects the racial prejudices of its time, depicting Othello as a figure who is exoticized and ultimately meets a tragic fate.
Misogyny: Some critics argue that the play contains elements of misogyny, particularly in the treatment of Desdemona. The female characters, including Desdemona and Emilia, are seen by some as passive and victimized, with limited agency.
Iago’s Motivation: The character of Iago is often criticized for his seemingly motiveless malignity. While his manipulation skills are masterful, some critics find his reasons for destroying Othello and others to be inadequately explained or insufficiently developed.
Cassio’s Role: Cassio’s character and his role in the play have been criticized for being somewhat underdeveloped. Some argue that Cassio’s relationship with Bianca and his involvement in the unfolding events could have been explored in more depth.
Pacing and Structure: Some critics find fault with the pacing of the play, suggesting that certain scenes could be condensed for a more streamlined narrative. The play is also criticized for its somewhat abrupt ending, with Othello’s swift descent into tragedy.
Inconsistencies in Othello’s Character: Othello’s rapid transformation from a confident and respected military leader to a jealous and irrational murderer has been questioned by some critics. The abruptness of this change has been seen as a weakness in character development.
Depiction of Love: The speed with which Othello and Desdemona fall in love and marry has been a point of contention. Some critics argue that the rapid development of their relationship makes it less believable, raising questions about the depth of their connection.
Treatment of Women: The treatment of women in the play, especially in Iago’s harsh and manipulative treatment of his wife Emilia, has been criticized. The female characters’ roles are often seen as subservient and subjected to male dominance.
While “Othello” has its critics, it’s important to recognize that the play is a product of its time, and interpretations can vary. Many also appreciate its exploration of complex themes, its psychological depth, and the masterful use of language and imagery.
Legacy of Othello
“Othello” has had a profound and lasting impact on literature, drama, and popular culture. Some aspects of its lasting legacy include:
Exploration of Race and Identity: “Othello” is often studied for its exploration of racial and cultural issues. The character of Othello, a Moor in a predominantly white society, has been a subject of analysis regarding racism and the treatment of the outsider. The play prompts discussions on the representation of race in literature and the arts.
Psychological Complexity: The psychological depth of characters, especially Othello, has made the play a rich source for analysis of human emotions and the consequences of unchecked jealousy. Othello’s tragic flaw and the manipulation by Iago are subjects of psychological scrutiny.
Themes of Jealousy and Betrayal: The themes of jealousy, betrayal, and the destructive consequences of unfounded suspicions resonate across time. The play remains a powerful exploration of human emotions and the impact of deceit on personal relationships.
Shakespearean Language and Poetry: “Othello” is renowned for its eloquent use of language and poetry. Many memorable quotes and speeches from the play continue to be quoted and studied, contributing to Shakespeare’s lasting influence on the English language.
Adaptations in Literature and Film: Numerous adaptations and reimaginings of “Othello” have been created in various art forms, including literature, film, and theater. These adaptations often explore the play’s themes in different cultural and historical contexts.
Cultural References: References to “Othello” are widespread in popular culture, from music to literature to film. Characters and lines from the play have been reinterpreted and referenced in countless works, showcasing the play’s enduring impact on storytelling.
Influence on Drama and Playwriting: Shakespeare’s plays, including “Othello,” have played a foundational role in the development of drama. The complexities of character, plot, and themes in “Othello” have influenced subsequent playwrights and dramatists.
Academic Study and Analysis: “Othello” remains a staple in literature curricula worldwide. It continues to be studied in schools and universities, providing students with opportunities to explore Shakespearean drama, literary analysis, and historical and cultural contexts.
Overall, the lasting legacy of “Othello” lies in its exploration of universal themes, its enduring characters, and its ability to provoke thought and discussion about issues that continue to be relevant in contemporary society.
Summary of Othello
Act 1
Exposition: The play begins in Venice, where Iago expresses his resentment toward Othello for promoting Cassio over him. The exposition also introduces Othello’s recent marriage to Desdemona and the racial tension present in Venetian society.
Rising Action: Iago sets his plan in motion to manipulate Othello by exploiting his insecurities about Desdemona’s fidelity. Cassio’s involvement with Bianca becomes a part of Iago’s scheme.
Scene 1:
The play opens with Iago expressing his resentment toward Othello for promoting Cassio over him. Roderigo is upset over Othello’s marriage to Desdemona, and Iago vows revenge. Iago reveals his plan to manipulate Othello by sowing seeds of doubt about Desdemona’s fidelity.
Scene 2:
Othello is introduced, and Brabantio, Desdemona’s father, accuses him of using witchcraft to win Desdemona’s love. Othello defends himself, and Desdemona speaks in support of their love. The Duke of Venice intervenes, and Othello is called away to Cyprus to defend against a Turkish invasion.
Scene 3:
Desdemona and Othello are reunited in Cyprus. Cassio arrives, and Iago begins to set his plan in motion by suggesting to Roderigo that Cassio is a rival for Desdemona’s affection. Iago also reveals his intention to use Cassio in his scheme.
Scene 4:
Othello and Desdemona celebrate their arrival in Cyprus. Iago continues to manipulate, insinuating to Othello that Cassio and Desdemona are having an affair. A brawl breaks out, and Othello orders Cassio’s demotion.
Scene 5:
Desdemona, Emilia, Iago, and Cassio arrive in Cyprus. Iago continues to manipulate, sowing further seeds of doubt in Othello’s mind. Desdemona and Othello reunite, but tension is palpable. Iago continues to work on Othello’s jealousy, setting the stage for the escalating conflicts in the following acts.
Act 2
Rising Action: Othello arrives in Cyprus with Desdemona, Cassio, and other characters. Iago continues to manipulate situations, making Othello suspicious of Cassio and Desdemona. Cassio is involved in a brawl and loses his position.
Scene 1:
Montano, the governor of Cyprus, awaits Othello’s arrival. Cassio arrives, and Iago gets him drunk in the hope that his behavior will lead to Othello’s displeasure. A brawl breaks out between Cassio and Roderigo. Othello arrives, stops the fight, and dismisses Cassio from his position.
Scene 2:
Othello leaves Desdemona in Iago’s care and departs for a military inspection. Iago seizes the opportunity to further his plan. Cassio, upset about his dismissal, seeks Desdemona’s help in regaining Othello’s favor.
Scene 3:
Desdemona and Cassio speak privately, but Iago manipulates appearances to make it seem suspicious. Iago encourages Othello to doubt Desdemona’s faithfulness. Cassio, desperate to regain Othello’s favor, employs the help of the clown to deliver a message to Desdemona.
Act 3
Rising Action: Iago continues to manipulate Othello, making him believe that Desdemona and Cassio are having an affair. Othello becomes more jealous, and the tension between characters escalates.
Scene 1:
Cassio, desperate to regain Othello’s favor, seeks Desdemona’s assistance. Iago uses this meeting to further manipulate Othello, implying that Cassio and Desdemona are involved romantically. Othello becomes increasingly suspicious and jealous.
Scene 2:
Othello questions Desdemona about her relationship with Cassio. Desdemona pleads for Cassio’s reinstatement, but Othello, consumed by jealousy, becomes further convinced of her infidelity. Iago continues to stoke Othello’s suspicions.
Scene 3:
Desdemona tries to convince Othello of Cassio’s innocence, but Othello remains unconvinced. Iago suggests that Desdemona and Cassio may be having an affair, intensifying Othello’s jealousy. Othello orders Iago to kill Cassio.
Scene 4:
Desdemona, Cassio, and Emilia discuss Othello’s strange behavior. Desdemona is worried about Othello’s mood, and Cassio reveals that he thinks Othello’s behavior is due to a personal matter. Lodovico arrives from Venice, bringing orders for Othello to return.
Scene 5:
Desdemona tries to reconcile Othello and Cassio, but Othello becomes increasingly aggressive and abusive. Desdemona, bewildered by Othello’s behavior, turns to Iago for guidance. Iago uses this opportunity to further poison Othello’s mind against Desdemona.
Act 4
Crisis: Othello’s jealousy reaches its peak. Iago arranges for Othello to witness a conversation between Cassio and Iago that further fuels Othello’s suspicions. Othello becomes consumed by jealousy and begins to plan Desdemona’s murder.
Scene 1:
Iago manipulates Roderigo into believing that Cassio’s dismissal will make Desdemona more available. Cassio speaks with Bianca, and Iago uses this interaction to make Othello believe that Cassio is talking about Desdemona. Othello becomes consumed by jealousy.
Scene 2:
Othello questions Emilia about Desdemona’s behavior and accuses her of infidelity. Emilia defends Desdemona’s innocence, but Othello remains unconvinced. Iago encourages Othello to eavesdrop on a conversation between him and Cassio.
Scene 3:
Othello hides and listens as Iago questions Cassio about his affairs with women. Iago manipulates Cassio into talking about Bianca, making it sound as though he is discussing Desdemona. Othello, believing he has heard proof of Desdemona’s infidelity, becomes increasingly enraged.
Scene 4:
Desdemona tries to convince Othello of Cassio’s innocence, but Othello is now firmly convinced of her guilt. Desdemona, Emilia, and Lodovico witness Othello’s escalating abuse. Othello strikes Desdemona in front of others, solidifying the public perception of her guilt.
Act 5
Climax: Othello confronts Desdemona, and in a fit of jealousy and rage, he smothers her. Emilia discovers the truth about Iago’s deception.
Falling Action: Iago’s manipulations are revealed, and the consequences of his actions become apparent. Othello, realizing the gravity of his mistake, takes his own life.
Resolution: Iago is arrested and brought to justice. Cassio is left in charge, and the play ends with the characters reflecting on the tragic events that unfolded.
Scene 1:
Iago manipulates Roderigo into attacking Cassio, intending to kill him. The plan goes awry, and both Cassio and Roderigo are wounded. Iago seizes the opportunity to kill Roderigo and further implicates Cassio in the plot.
Scene 2:
Othello, convinced of Desdemona’s infidelity, decides to murder her. Desdemona prepares for bed, unaware of Othello’s intentions. Emilia discovers Roderigo’s body and realizes the depth of Iago’s deception.
Scene 3:
Desdemona, in bed, awaits Othello. Othello enters, confronts Desdemona, and ultimately smothers her to death. Emilia arrives with news of Roderigo’s death and discovers Desdemona’s murder. Othello confesses to killing Desdemona and reveals Iago’s deceit.
Scene 4:
Lodovico and Cassio arrive, and Iago’s villainy is exposed. Emilia denounces Iago and reveals his manipulations. Othello, realizing the extent of his tragic error, kills himself. Iago is arrested, and the play concludes with a sense of devastation and the exposure of Iago’s malicious schemes.
This act marks the tragic resolution of the play, with the consequences of Iago’s manipulation leading to death and destruction. Othello’s realization of his fatal mistake, the exposure of Iago’s deceit, and the demise of several characters contribute to the tragic and somber conclusion of “Othello.”