Othelle The Tragic Hero

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Othello, the moor of Venice, is a great warrior and a leading general who make his name and glory is war. He finds himself facing not only military problems but domestic ones. Othello becomes jealous, but we can defectively avoid the argument about whether he was naturally jealous or not, by looking for error of judgment rather than moral flaw.

Shakespearean tragedies are all concerned with conflict which terminates in catastrophe. In his tragedies Shakespeare is concerned with seeming and being, with appearance versus reality, which in Othello these are epitomized in the hypocrite Iago: Hypocrisy is the only evil that walks invisible except to God alone.

Shakespeare has held back from introducing Othello directly. Instead Othello had been presented in fiercely racial terms such as “thick lips”, “old black ram”, “Barbary horse”, “lascivious Moor”, “devil”, in the first scene. (Act 1, scene 1)

Nevertheless in the second scene through his manner and bearing, Othello immediately counters the uncomplimentary image which has been so painstakingly constructed. He is presented as a man who rejects impulsive action in a way that is soothing and calming. Othello is a hero, a great warrior, and in love with his wife Desdemona. Othello trusts Desdemona with everything. Othello, “My life upon her faith. Honest Iago,” (Act 1, scene 3, 293)

The authority of his command reflects not only supreme confidence in his military prowess but also a great self-control and rationality. He is articulate and confident in himself and of his role in society. Othello defends his marriage in a sophisticated approach, speaking in an ardent manner to defend his position. His faith is absolute and he is prepared to stake his life upon his certain knowledge of Desdemona’s love.

Nevertheless despite his self-control and his noble image, Othello
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