Othello character analysis Flashcards
Othello’s psychological trauma can be representative of?
the conflict between European colonisation and freedom of identity from a postcolonial reading
Why does Othello’s love fail?
he is victim to Iago’s manipulations due to his own insecurities. Shakespeare presents true tragedy as hierarchal, colonial, capitalist society urges you to sacrifice in order to succeed.
How is Othello presented as a mediator (resolves conflict) at the beginning (act1- 3)?
he is prudent, doesn’t cause conflict, doesn’t believe in violence- Brabanzio doesn’t spark his temper. Instead of using his physicality to indicate strength, he uses his voice and to prove himself worthy to the senate. Suggests he is immune to toxic masculinity that defines many men in literature.
how is Othello presented to have a messiah type persona (act 1-3)
As a leader, he is loyal and is seen as a peacemaker and inspires. However this would have been controversial from a Jacobean audience as due to the excessive white washing of the church.
how is Othello presented as an adoring husband in the beginning (act 1-3)?
he respects her opinions and views Desdemona beyond her child bearing duty. There is mutual respect and no power conflict. Love gives him strength
How is Othello presented as gullible?
repetition of “good Iago” and “most honest”. Naivety can be seen as his harmatia
How is Othello presented as a tortured soul at the end (act 3-5) using the quote “Thou hast set me on the rack” (act 3, scene 3)?
The quote is a metaphor connoting to medieval torture indicating Iago’s growing power over Othello due to his doubts. Shakespeare presents Othello’s greatest enemy as his own mind.
How is Othello’s fragile masculinity portrayed?
due to Desdemona’s betrayal he feels that his manhood and triumphs have been stripped away. He feels humiliated and craves validation.
Analysis the quote “yet she must die, else she’ll betray more men”
her death is symbolic of male victory over deceitful female sexuality. He chooses male solidarity over romantic love. His internalised misogyny is revealed as he feeds into the popular idea of women as deceitful during the Jacobean Era.
How is Othello portrayed as a misogynist against Emilia?
calls her a “whore” and “brothel-keeper”. He views women as sexual and deceitful. Believes Emilia and Desdemona are working together against men feeding into the idea that all women conspire to cause men ill.
