Adversity in Othello

1367 Words6 Pages
During the first act of Othello, the reader is introduced to antagonist of the play; Iago who goes out to seek revenge on Othello, of who he believes is a close friend. Iago, who by occupation must serve his superior, Othello, states “I follow him to serve my turn upon him”, ironically instead of keeping his loyalty as Othello’s friend, implies that his real “loyalty” as such is to use it against him in a state of revenge. Iago’s intention to bring adversity upon Othello is further developed in the negative statement “… not I for love and duty” openly announcing his intentions, ironically being honest to them. His first act of trickery begins as Iago sets up to inform Desdemona’s father, Brabantio about his daughter’s marriage to Othello. ”Zounds sir, you’re robbed.” (Ii87) this overstatement implies to Brabantio that his daughter is with Othello against her own accord. Iago’s state of revenge magnifies as he continues to deceive his friend.

Further into the first act, Othello’s adversities begin to show of his race and sudden loss of power which shows that his skin colour and upbringing is not accepted in the community. He is constantly referred to as “the moor” metaphorically stereotyping his character, for “moors” were people who descended from Africa. Brabantio, furious by the intentions of marriage of his daughter to “the Moor” believes that Othello used drugs and witchcraft to steal his daughter from him “O thou foul thief! Where hast thou stowed my daughter… though hast enchanted her” (1ii62-64) this overstatement shows the sudden disregard of Othello’s previous power in the community as an army general and the immediate hatred he receives as a result of the colour of his skin. Iago once again plans to ruin Othello as he suspects his wife has been unfaithful with Othello, and goes out to destroy his marriage, just adding to Iago’s anger causing him to
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