Exploring the Views Expressed by Other Characters about Othello in Act 1

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Exploring the Views Expressed by Other Characters about Othello in Act 1

The tragedy “Othello” (1924) is written by William Shakespeare, it is

the story of Othello, the protagonist and tragic hero of the play. A

moor commanding the armies of Venice, he is a celebrated general and a

heroic figure.

The events that occur in the first half of the act are all in

anticipation of the lead character Othello who we are not immediately

introduced to until act 1 scene 2.

The play begins mid-way through a conversation between Iago and

Roderigo, they provide a distinctive image of the hero, and implicitly

reveal aspects of their own characters too.

Othello is not mentioned by name at all in the first scene and all

references are distinctly derogatory. Iago and Roderigo both refer to

Othello as ‘he’, ‘him’ and is often described as the ‘moor’ this

prejudicial reference clearly locates Othello’s social and cultural

background in Venetian society and then is insultingly referred to as

“thick lips” a racial slur said by Roderigo. They conjure up a picture

of Othello as a ‘proud’ general who fills his speeches with epithets

of war, “His own pride and purposes evades them with a bombast

circumstance” here Iago accuses Othello of being arrogant. Who

appoints a lieutenant out of favouritism, rather than reason. This is

implied by Iago when he states “Preferment goes by letter and

affection”.

Iago is Othello’s ensign, and Shakespeare’s greatest villain. His

public face of bravery and honesty conceals a satanic delight in

manipulation and destruction. Passed over for a promotion by his

commander, he vows to destroy the moor.

Iago feels that he was best suited to hold the position of

lieutenant, as opposed to Cassio. From this Iago manufactures

accusations of adultery these accusations are merely excuses to

validate his actions and greed. Iagos quest is for personal gain as

opposed to just being evil.

His speech provides evidence of his jealousy of Othello.

The theme of appearance is explored predominantly through the

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