Study Guide_ Othello

Othello is one of Shakespeare's major tragedies, dealing with themes like ethnic differences, jealousy, and domestic violence.

Key Questions Generated by the Play:

• What is Iago’s motivation for his treachery?

• Why does Othello fail to communicate with Desdemona early on?

• Is there genuine love between Othello and Desdemona?

The play is adapted from Cinthio’s novella A Moorish Captain (1565), shifting focus from heroic tragedies to intimate human relationships, akin to the novel.

Greek Tragedy: Aristotle defines tragedy as a serious action arousing pity and fear, with a catalyst in the protagonist's hamartia (error of judgment) leading to a downfall.

Othello is referred to as ‘the Moor of Venice’ highlighting ethnic differences and racial stereotypes common in Shakespeare's time, reflecting societal views.

Critic responses vary from viewing Othello as a tragic hero to critiques of his actions reflecting monstrous jealousy.

Desdemona's Role:

• Often perceived as passive, yet she displays moments of independence and assertiveness that can be emphasized in performances.

• Critically viewed through the lens of her tragic fate as an innocent victim of Othello's jealousy.

Discourse on Language:

• Contrast between characters’ modes of speech—e.g., Iago uses prose for manipulation while Othello begins with assuredness in verse, which deteriorates under jealousy.

• Language serves as a tool of manipulation, symbolizing the conflicts of truth and perception within the narrative.

The climax involves Desdemona's murder by Othello and his eventual realization of her innocence—leading to his own death, stressing themes of fate, misunderstanding, and tragedy.