Othello's Tragic Flaw
Ashley Abbondandelo
12/11/12
ENG 102
Othello
Part of what makes Othello such a prevailing play through history is that the characters and situations are universal. Each character is relatable on the fact that every major character is a classic epitome. Iago, a classic villain. A scoundrel with an astonishing ability to manipulate and cause turmoil, and Othello a classic tragic hero who’s own jealousy and deep internalized insecurity of the prejudices surrounding him, helps right into Iagos “evil genius” and ultimately are the key cause in Othello’s unfortunate downfall. Iago is one of the most infamous and puzzling villains in history. Even though he is referred to as “Honest” Iago throughout the play, he lies, cheats, steals, and kills to get what he wants. Iago’s manipulation starts off when he finds out that Othello gave the position of lieutenant, a position that he felt himself deserved, to Cassio, and will do anything to get it. Iago will do whatever it takes to get what he wants. He is able to manipulate anyone who gets in his way. Without any true justification, Iago starts to immediately tear Othello apart by doing anything to hurt him. As the play moves on, Iago becomes construed by his animosity and lies which he even starts to believe them himself, He believes that Othello Ashley Abbondandelo slept with his wife, Emilia, “I hate the Moor, and it is thought abroad that ‘twixt my sheets’ ‘He has done my office”(6-7:236) This triggers an even more profound hatred for Othello. Othello a “Noble Moor” whoes own tragic flaw of deep insecurity and jealousy account for the devastating events in this play. By the hand of Iago, Othello falls into a deep jealous rage. His downfall is his own doing, Othello is not a forsaken victim of destiny, but fueled by the power of jealousy and own insecurities becomes a man of tragic rage. By Iago advertently pulling the string, Othello believes that he is not worthy of love. That all he is is a
12/11/12
ENG 102
Othello
Part of what makes Othello such a prevailing play through history is that the characters and situations are universal. Each character is relatable on the fact that every major character is a classic epitome. Iago, a classic villain. A scoundrel with an astonishing ability to manipulate and cause turmoil, and Othello a classic tragic hero who’s own jealousy and deep internalized insecurity of the prejudices surrounding him, helps right into Iagos “evil genius” and ultimately are the key cause in Othello’s unfortunate downfall. Iago is one of the most infamous and puzzling villains in history. Even though he is referred to as “Honest” Iago throughout the play, he lies, cheats, steals, and kills to get what he wants. Iago’s manipulation starts off when he finds out that Othello gave the position of lieutenant, a position that he felt himself deserved, to Cassio, and will do anything to get it. Iago will do whatever it takes to get what he wants. He is able to manipulate anyone who gets in his way. Without any true justification, Iago starts to immediately tear Othello apart by doing anything to hurt him. As the play moves on, Iago becomes construed by his animosity and lies which he even starts to believe them himself, He believes that Othello Ashley Abbondandelo slept with his wife, Emilia, “I hate the Moor, and it is thought abroad that ‘twixt my sheets’ ‘He has done my office”(6-7:236) This triggers an even more profound hatred for Othello. Othello a “Noble Moor” whoes own tragic flaw of deep insecurity and jealousy account for the devastating events in this play. By the hand of Iago, Othello falls into a deep jealous rage. His downfall is his own doing, Othello is not a forsaken victim of destiny, but fueled by the power of jealousy and own insecurities becomes a man of tragic rage. By Iago advertently pulling the string, Othello believes that he is not worthy of love. That all he is is a