Comparison Of Tragic Tragedy In Shakespeare's Othello

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“Trifles light as air / Are to the jealous confirmations strong / As proofs of holy writ.”
(Shakespeare I.iii. 370-372). This quote spoken by Iago, the antagonist in Shakespeare’s Aristotelian tragedy Othello, depicts the Moor’s tragic flaw of jealousy, which is displayed throughout the play. The Moor is Othello, the perceived protagonist in this story as he is the character who is the subject of Iago’s devious plans. In Othello, Othello is the honoured general of the Venetian army who promotes another man to the position of Lieutenant instead of Iago. This spites Iago to plot the downfall of Othello through deception and succeeds due to the presence of Othello’s tragic flaw. Aristotelian tragedies are unique as they accentuate a tragic hero’s …show more content…

In Othello, Othello is a black man who is held in high esteem, a considerable feat in a predominately white Venetian society during the Elizabethan era. Regarded as strong and courageous due to his position of General of the Venetian army, in Act I, Othello reminisces that “[Brabantio] loved [him], oft invited [him], Still questioned [him] the story of [his] life” (Shakespeare I. iii. 149-150). Othello states that Brabantio, Desdemona’s father and senator, enjoyed listening to his grand tales as a former slave and as a warrior on the battlefield. Not only is the content of Othello’s stories admirable, but his confidence proved to impress Brabantio as he continued to invite him to his home and elaborate on his experiences. It is notable that Othello is charismatic, obtaining the honour and close relationship of an important politician. Additionally, Othello’s alluring struggles were overheard by Desdemona and managed to woo her, having her fall in love with him because of his strength. Evidently, Othello garnered the admiration of both the senator of his city and his daughter as a visible minority in …show more content…

ii. 78-79). Upon being informed that his daughter is in a relationship with a black man, Brabantio and his men confront Othello with torches and draw their swords on him, but Othello suggests Brabantio to use his words as they are more powerful than weapons. This statement is significant as he defies the stereotypical brute, violent behaviour that is expected of a black man. Additionally, Othello is elevated as he contrasts the aggressive Brabantio, choosing to speak rather than resort to fighting in order to resolve conflict. In a situation where he is surrounded by angry men with swords and is at risk of legal troubles, Othello remains calm and is able to negotiate with composure. Moreover, Othello displays that he is wary of the difference between his role in military and his civil character as an inferior member of Venetian society, which earns him the respect of the people in Venice. Unfortunately, Othello’s high regards faces a downfall as the play continues, evident through a dark change in

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