Manipulation In Othello

Through time and events, one’s true character will start to evolve and show. In Othello: The Moor of Venice by William Shakespeare the transformation of the once strong Othello is a main focus of the story. Using various forms of manipulation Iago seeks to destroy Othello, slowly throughout the play Othello descends into a darker and more broken state until his eventual downfall. From beginning to end there is an very recognizable transition and evolution in Othello’s character at first displaying a strong demeanour, then doubt seeds in and he starts to question himself, finally he is broken completely. Othello was a strong, confident and war tested general but had a single weakness, his love for Desdemona. When that idea of true love was

He was summoned as result of the need for him to lead the army in Cyprus against a surprise attack from the Turkish fleet, accompanying them in the great room was Brabantio, who had arrived in a frenzy of anger with accusations towards Othello for using witchcraft to steal his daughter Desdemona. Much can be learned about Othello’s character in this early scene, upon arrival Othello is met with admiration and respect. He meets these accusations with a calm and well processed response. Othello is persuasive in his speech winning over the mind of the Duke and additionally receiving acceptance by Brabantio. In addition to learning about Othello’s early on character, his greatest values are also shown by the way he passionately defends his marriage, his love for Desdemona being his highest

At this point Othello has been completely consumed by the lie Iago has created. Iago’s lie goes perfectly to plan when Othello sees the handkerchief he had given to Desdemona in the hands of Cassio, fully convincing Othello of the lie. In Othello’s prestigious position as captain he decides the shame of having a cheating wife is too much and his only option is to murder her. Iago continuing his goal of ruining Othello, Iago even suggests to “Do it not with poison. Strangle her in her bed, even the bed she hath contaminated” 4.1. 194, fully knowing this is a lie he created. In a delirious state he kills Desdemona before the reveal of Iago’s plan and as a final act killing himself. All that was left of Othello at the end of the play was an emotional and physically broken