CPT - Othello Characters

Question 1

Othello

Answer 1

• Tragic Hero; Othello’s downfall comes from his insecurities and venerability to Iago’s manipulation
• Internal Conflict; Torn between his love for Desdemona and the suspicion planted by Iago
• Strengths; Noble, brave and dignified (respected military leader)
• Weaknesses: Insecurities regarding his race, inability to control jealousy and exceeding trust in Iago

Question 2

Iago

Answer 2

• Master Manipulator; Iago is manipulative, deceitful, and highly intelligent. Driven by his deep resentment (Emilia supposed infidelity and Cassio promotion)
• Villainous yet Charismatic; His motivations seem a mixture of jealousy, vengeance and ambition
• Manipulation; Iago plays the role of the honest and loyal ensign while plotting the destruction of Othello, Desdemona and others

Question 3

Desdemona

Answer 3

• Innocent and Loyal; Desdemona is faithful, loving and devoted to Othello, yet her innocence and naivety make her vulnerable
• Tragic Victim; She is a victim of Othello’s jealousy and Iago’s manipulation, ultimately dies because of misunderstandings

Question 4

Cassio

Answer 4

• Loyal and Honorable; Cassio is Othello’s loyal lieutenant who is unaware of Iago’s plot
• Good-Natured; His reputation as a gentleman contrasts with Iago’s dark nature. His promotion and downfall serve to heighten the tension in the play

Question 5

Emilia

Answer 5

• Truth-Teller; Emilia’s role is significant because she reveals the truth about Iago’s machinations
• Loyal to Desdemona; Despite her loyalty to Iago (her husband), she ultimately exposes him, showing a moral awakening