On play itself

Question 1

Othello is a tragedy of misunderstanding. No one among the characters understands anyone else.

-John Wain

Answer 1

BUT Iago does understand Othello (in order to manipulate him)

Question 2

Othello is about the wanton (excessive motiveless) destruction of happiness

Wibbard, Othello

Answer 2

• frustration = more impact added to dramatic irony
  -Iago’s irrational goal = more intimidating, creates fear (makes Iago more fearless- makes him more inhumane)

Question 3

Othello is a black man, as calculated, in those times, to inspire horror as Iago to inspire confidence

S.L Bethel (diabolic images in Othello)

Answer 3

-link to context (AO3)
-his race inspire horror on its own

Question 4

the men without gall, the woman without brains or sense
-Thomas Rhymer

Answer 4

DISAGREE!! bravery could be seen in both Iago and Othello

Question 5

Othello is a tragedy of racial conflict. His colour heightens the tragedy
-Paul Robeson

Answer 5

AGREE

Question 6

Othello is Shakespeare’s noblest tragic figure

John Wilson

Answer 6

link to his suicide as a “heroic act”

Question 7

Othello is a perfect except he is too easily jealous. when he says “not easily jealous” it is the most appalling piece of self-deception

Laurence Olivier

Answer 7

-pace of manipulation
-Iago mirrors him (O is the one who demand for I to tell him)

Question 8

Iago is entirely disconnected from the feelings of humanity, almost lunatic malice, depraved by ambition and revenge

Hazlitt

Answer 8

DISAGREE!! his motive is rational and is relatable