The Theme of Jealousy in Othello by William Shakespeare

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The Theme of Jealousy in Othello by William Shakespeare

Othello is a unique tragedy in that it focuses on the destruction of love through sexual

jealousy. Jealousy is not inherited in a person, but developed from the fatal factors of their

character. Othello is plagued with his ego and pride which contributes to his demise. Othello is,

however, a truly romantic character because he is very passionate and full of deep feelings. It keeps

a person wondering what could have possibly brought the sweet Desdemona to be his wife. Was it

because he has lived a life of adventure and war and he is somewhat exotic due to his origins and

dark complexion? On the other hand, is it because she fell head over heels in love with him because

he represented all that was noble and strong. She tells her father, Brabantio, that she fell in love

with his character and the wonderful stories that he has told her about his life. Whatever the case

may be, Desdemona represents the innocence, truth and goodness of the play. She truly represents

the goodness and light associated with "true love." Her father troubled by her love for Othello

insists that she abandon her love for the Moor and obey his wishes. She tells Brabantio how she

loves him according to her bond. "My father I do perceive here a divided duty. To you I am bound

for the life and education; My life and education both do learn me How to respect you. You are the

lord of duty; I am hitherto your daughter. But here's my Husband, And so much duty as my mother

showed To you, preferring you before her father, So much I challenge that I may profess Due to

the Moor my lord!" This young beautiful and bold women asks the Duke if she c...

... middle of paper ...

...at kind of behavior in his Lieutenant. Desdemona

pleads his case to Othello, because she knows him to be a good man. Iago uses the fact that

Desdemona is interceding on Cassio?s behalf, to further convince Othello that Desdemona is

cheating on him, with Cassio. He hopes this will remove Cassio and open up the way for him to

become Lieutenant.. Othello could always wonder if Desdemona really loved him, or if she was

just using him to rebel against her father. With Iago constantly putting these ideas in his head,

Othello was convinced to kill his wife. Often, reputations and a person?s true character are very

different. People rely on their previous experiences or knowledge of others to make judgments

about them. Iago used this to his advantage to manipulate everyone.

Bibliography:

1. Funk and wagnalls new encyclopedia

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