A04 & A05 Truth & Deception

Question 1

A04: Truth & Deception in Macbeth

Answer 1

Deceptive appearances: Macbeth pretends to be loyal while plotting Duncan’s murder.
Witches prophecies: the witches deceive Macbeth with ambiguous truths, fuelling his false sense of invincibility.

Question 2

A05: “The tragedy of Othello is a tragedy of deception, both from within and without.”

Answer 2

External Deception: Iago’s lies manipulate Othello’s perception of truth.
Internal Deception: Othello deceives himself by believing Iago and doubting Desdemona’s honesty.
Tragic outcome: The play illustrates how deception leads to self destruction and tragedy.

Question 3

A05: Marxist Criticism on Truth & Deception

Answer 3

Class and power: Othello’s insecurities about his race and status make him vulnerable to Iago’s manipulation.
Iago’s envy: Iago exploits class dynamics, using deception to disrupt the social order and bring down those in power.
Deception as Control: Iago’s lies reflect how those in power use deception to maintain control, leading to Othello’s downfall.

This approach highlights how social power and envy drive deception and ruin in the play.