Othello is a tragic play by William Shakespeare about love, jealousy, betrayal, and racism. It tells the story of a noble African general in the Venetian army who is destroyed by the manipulations of his envious subordinate.
Plot Summary:
Othello, a respected Moorish
general in the Venetian army, secretly marries Desdemona, a
noblewoman. Their love defies social and racial expectations, which sparks
resentment in some around them.
Iago, Othello’s ensign, is furious
when Othello promotes Cassio over him. Driven by jealousy and hatred,
Iago plots to ruin Othello. He plants seeds of doubt in Othello’s mind about
Desdemona’s faithfulness, falsely suggesting she is having an affair with
Cassio.
Using manipulation and planted evidence — most notably
Desdemona’s handkerchief, which Iago plants in Cassio’s room — Iago
convinces Othello that Desdemona has betrayed him.
Consumed by jealousy, Othello murders Desdemona in a fit of
rage. When the truth is finally revealed — that Desdemona was innocent and Iago
was the true villain — Othello is devastated. In deep remorse and guilt, he takes
his own life.
Key Characters:
- Othello
– A Moorish general; noble, but tragically jealous.
- Desdemona
– Othello’s loyal and innocent wife.
- Iago
– The manipulative villain who orchestrates Othello’s downfall.
- Cassio
– Othello’s loyal lieutenant.
- Emilia
– Iago’s wife and Desdemona’s maid, who ultimately exposes Iago.
Themes:
- Jealousy
– “The green-eyed monster” that destroys lives.
- Racism
and Outsidership – Othello is judged for being a Moor.
- Manipulation
and Deceit – Iago's lies drive the tragedy.
- Honor
and Reputation – Social image influences fatal
decisions.
- Love
and Betrayal – Trust is tested and tragically broken.
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