William Shakespeare's Othello and The Tragic Hero

William Shakespeare's Othello and The Tragic Hero

If one reads Shakespeare's Othello, they can come to the conclusion that

it might be one of the his most tragic plays ever written by Shakespeare. Romeo

and Juliet, is probably the most famous of his tragic plays, but Othello, has

characteristics that, I think make it even more tragic than his other plays, and

therefore for that reason, you can say that Othello is the most tragic hero.

Othello is a noble man, one who has grace with the ladies but also

possesses all the virtues of a military leader that he is. He is a general that

is experienced in battle. He has shown that he is reliable and well known in

the military and is well respected. His valiant personality, is what draws

people to him, as it does for Desdemona. The senators value him and hear what

he says when he speaks. This is shown here by one of the senators. "Here comes

Barbantio and the valiant Moor", (Act I scene 3, 47) . This is an example of

the many comments which shows Othello's character and personality as a person

and an officer. They say he is one of the great leaders.

Not only does he posses great character and courage, but also dignity.

He keeps his control even when he is being accused of witchcraft during the

first encounter with the senators when Desdemona's father confronts him about

see his daughter.

"Most potent, grave, and reverend signors,

My very noble and approved good masters;

That I have ta'en away this old man's daughter,

It is most true; true I have married her.

The very head and front of my offending

Hath the extent, no more. Rude I am in my speech,

And little blessed with the soft phrase of peace;"

(I, iii, 91)

This is an example of how Othello deals with style and grace under fire,

when he is accused of witch craft, by marrying Desdemona. He neither, yells or

screams, but explains in a manner that captivates his audience, and draws them

in to listen.

A major sign that Othello shows his rage and jealousy occurs in Act III,

scene 3, when Iago is talking with Othello and tells him that Desdemona is a

whore. Othello's breakdown, almost to choke Iago, simply asks Iago

"Villain, be sure thou prove my love a whore, Be sure if

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." (Act III, scene 3)

This a point in the play where Iago starts unveil his malicious plan.