In this play, we witness the avertable fall of the main character Othello. The humor in this tragedy imparts hopeful moments by digressing us from what we expect. The play is generally told from the view of the antagonist Iago, yet we learn to sympathize with Othello. In what is supposed to be a serious tragedy of the downfall of Othello, these temporary moments of mocking and humor, gives us a sense of hope. After Othello “stole” Brabantio’s daughter, Roderigo and Barbantio both draw their swords ready to attack when Othello replies “Keep up your bright swords, for the dew will rust them” (Shakespeare 59-60). This scene creates a mood that is different from our assumption made from the title. If the readers are misdirected, they are in for a big surprise.
What may deviate the reader is that unlike many tragedies Othello’s destiny was not up to the will of the gods. In this tragedy there was not a god or force to challenge, only Iago. He had a chance to turn everything around as we all hoped, but he did not. Amidst all of the unfortunate scenes leading to the fall of Othello, there are scenes that create a more positive atmosphere than just an all around serious tragedy. A reader, who recognizes that destiny is in Othello’s hands in addition to humorous moments, will believe that the play might be headed for a different direction.
Although we can all predict the play differently, we can all enjoy a good laugh the same way. In Shakespeare time, his audience incorporated groups that belonged to different social classes. Iago is manipulative and has a way with words. His ability to play with words in his speeches perhaps can only be understood from the educated higher class as illustrated in this quote ”I am one, sir that comes to tell you your daughter and the Moor are now making the beast with two backs.” (117-118). A humorous scene, however can be enjoyed from all. In the scene when Iago tells Othello about a made up incident when he heard Cassio talking out loud in his dream about his affair with Desdemona, Iago said”As if he plucked up kisses by the roots that grew upon my lips; then laid his leg over my thigh, and sighed and kissed, and cried ‘Cursed fate that gave thee to the moor.” Playing out this scene, I imagine Iago trying to act it out using different voices, as Othello foolishly takes it all in. To some extent Othello’s naivety is so extreme it becomes humorous.
Shakespeare gave the ending away in the title. Therefore, adding humor gives the reader a sense of hope that maybe it is not such a serious tragedy and things might turn out differently. As for the audience, everyone is always looking for comfort regardless of status; we are always looking for those comforting, soothing parts as much as we all enjoy a sad story.
