Character Analysis of Othello, Macbeth, and The Tempest

Flashcards analyzing key characters from Shakespeare's Othello, Macbeth, and The Tempest.

Othello

A tragic hero who is trusting and insecure; embodies themes of otherness.

Desdemona

Symbol of innocence; loyal and naive, unintentionally fuels Iago's manipulation.

Iago

The manipulative architect of the plot; represents evil without cause.

Cassio

Charming and well-spoken; contrasts to Othello and serves as a tool in Iago's scheme.

Emilia

The voice of reason and truth in Othello; brings justice.

Roderigo

Iago's gullible pawn; obsessed with Desdemona.

Bianca

Jealous of Cassio; highlights gender and class issues.

Brabantio

Proud and racist; establishes early conflict in Othello.

Duke of Venice

Diplomatic and authoritative; legitimizes Othello’s power.

Lady Macbeth

Manipulative and cold; catalyst for Macbeth's actions.

Macbeth

Ambitious tragic hero, guilt-ridden and an agent of chaos.

Three Witches

Prophetic figures that manipulate and foreshadow Macbeth's downfall.

Banquo

Moral contrast to Macbeth; noble and suspicious.

Macduff

Loyal avenger of Duncan; represents justice.

Hecate

Vengeful goddess and instigator of Macbeth’s downfall.

Prospero

Intelligent and powerful central character of The Tempest; symbolizes control and restoration.

Miranda

Symbol of purity and hope; loyal to Prospero.

Ariel

Servile and loyal agent of magic; instigator of resolution.

Caliban

Primitive and resentful; symbolizes colonization and oppression.

Sebastian

Cunning and ambitious antagonist in The Tempest.

Gonzalo

Moral center in The Tempest; loyal and optimistic.

Ceres

Symbol of nature and fertility; nurturing and protective.

Juno

Majestic and powerful goddess; symbolizes marriage and unity.

Iris

Symbol of divine order; aids in reconciliation.

The Old Man

Witness to Scotland's decline; symbolizes wisdom and reflective nature.