Othello Essay
Othello, the noble Moor of the Venetian state, is the plays protagonist and is of central focus throughout the course of the play. Othello is powerful character by nature and uses his hierarchal position as the general of the armies of Venice to rule with pride and integrity, all those close to him are respectful of his status and are humbly invigorated by his stature as a warrior. The extent of Othello’s importance to the Venetian army , with which he holds true with firm allegiance, is first supported by his arch enemy and antagonist, Iago, who mutters: “With safety cast him”. (I.i.147). Clearly Othello has some influence as military character and further more his capabilities as a warrior are trusted by his fellow colleagues. “Keep up your bright swords, for the dew will rust them”. (I.ii.59). At this point Shakespeare appeals to Othello at the height of his power. He illuminates his positive character traits portrayed in his eloquence, his moral strength, and kind disposition. He is the embodiment of an idealized male figure, and outward projection of confidence and high self-esteem. However, Othello’s premises are put to the test when forced to play the part of judge in distinguishing perpetrator, from victim in the “brawl” scene between Cassio, Othello’s long serving lieutenant, and Montana. Othello’s honest nature and social status persist in controlling the situation but his judgment is put under some scrutiny when faced with Iago’s sly trickery, using misdirection to feign Cassio’s blame, consequently leading to Cassio’s expulsion from the position of lieutenant, and ironically Iago is reinstated as Othello’s new lieutenant. (II.iii.229). It is Othello’s “free and open nature” that allows Iago’s underhand approach to pass by unhindered and exposes an existential flaw in Othello’s judgment of character. (I.iii.381). Additionally , there is a concurrent motif prevalent in the play in relation to sight or apparent blindness. When Iago reputedly reports Cassio wiping his beard with the handkerchief he gave to Desdemona as a symbol of their undying love, out of revulsion Othello demands “ocular proof” as evidence of this calamitous act. (III.iii.442-444). Othello has a tendency to make premature assumptions about things he has not yet seen and tends to act irrationally when faced with a decision of dire circumstance. His quickness to react, often with ill consideration exposes his susceptibility to be manipulated by the truth, and often plays into the hands f Iago.