What makes Othello a Tragedy? Flashcards
what is a tragedy?
based on conflict and the downfall of a high-ranking character
define hamartia
a fatal flaw
what is Othello’s hamartia?
Jealousy
define hubris
excessive pride or self-confidence
define catharsis
a release of a strong emotion
where is catharsis seen in othello?
when Othello realises he killed his wife due to manipulation, he kills himself
when Iago is found out to be a master manipulator
what is Pathos?
evokes pity or sadness for a character
where is pathos seen in Othello?
in act 5 scene 2 when Othello realises he’s murdered his wife under false claims
what are the components that make something a tragedy?
- must depict the downfall of a major character
- must suffer from hubris
- the villain must die as well as the protagonist to provide catharsis and so order can be restored
why is Othello an unconventional tragedy?
Iago is kept alive, when in a classic tragedy he would have died