Analysis of Othello by William Shakespeare

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Analysis of Othello by William Shakespeare

Shakespeare sets the play in Venice when it was one of the most

powerful and civilised states of Christian Europe. It was one of the

most sophisticated trading places in the world. Shakespeare paints a

picture of Venice as a racist place and so the colour of someone’s

skin was definitely looked upon as important.

Venice held power in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Turks were

threatening to attack areas in the Eastern Mediterranean such as

Cyprus.

Othello, a Moor (North African) black and a professed Christian was

Venice’s most trusted and respected general. As Othello was the

General of the Army he made Cassio, who was a Florentine his

lieutenant. This angered Iago as he was hoping for promotion and to

hold that title. Iago announces his hatred for Othello to a Venetian

gentlemen named Roderigo, but Othello knows little of this, as Iago

hides this well and shows nothing but love for him. In act 3 scene 3

this is shown when Othello makes Iago his lieutenant, after Cassio

angers Othello.

“Now art thou my lieutenant.”

“I am your own for ever.”

That final quote shows the perverted nature of Iago’s evil scheme.

Iago is pleased when Othello gets rid of Cassio and makes him his

lieutenant and so swears loyalty to Othello forever, which is shown in

the quote above. Iago is using Othello to get want he wants and it is

working well, as Othello is falling for his cunning tricks.

Also in act 3 scene 3 Iago announces his love to Othello, which

Othello is not quite sure he believes but knows he is honest.

“If thou dost love me, show me thy thought.”

“My lord, you know I love you.”

“I think thou dost. And for I know thou’rt full of love and honesty.”

As you can see Iago confirms his loyalty and love for Othello, but

underneath Iago is full of hatred, he exploits and betrays their

trust. At this point there is a good use of opposites for love

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