Iago's Personality

Ideas about Othello

In what way is this play about race?

Considering that the protagonist is black, it brings in the idea of isolation. It is an important part of the play as he is isolated, placed on a pedestal so his fall is even more dramatic. In effect Shakespeare isolates the issue that racial prejudice is a timeless issue that will continue through time. Insecurity and vulnerability, allows Iago to attack him, makes relationship between Desdemona and Othello foundations shaky. Confirms Elizabethan stereotypes about race it was written for an audience that could accept racist stereotypes as truisms without acknowledging their own racism. A tragic flaw; makes Iago jealous; thus the downfall of Othello is imminent

Is it a dramatic device?

Shakespeare - concerned with racism? Imagery -dichotomy - conflict white/black; a discussion of humanity - confirming the Elizabethan stereotypes

Power

Iago - his disposition to know all the other characters flaws, undermines peoples in position of authority; his ability as a puppeteer

Cassio - young and handsome; educated; superficial power

Othello - military power and authority; meritocracy where status is gained on merit undermined by the idea that the duke orders him what to do; superficial power limited to their positions; undermining the power all the time; highlight how superficial his power is, it is undermined by Iago all the time

Desdemona - women are dutiful, are repressed by their position as possessions of their masters

In what way is this a play about the relationships between men and women?

Shakespeare recognises the role of women through their relationships. Othello and Desdemona's relationship conveys the ideas of love, lust, based on strong foundations or not. Stereotypical view that Elizabethan's held about black men.

Contrast between Desdemona and Othello and Emilia and Iago.

In what way has the theme of deception been established?

The one deceitful character is being portrayed as honest, revealed Othello's