Othello can be defined as a tragic hero because his downfall is caused by a weakness within himself and not by external factors - NSC English HL - Question 12 - 2022 - Paper 2

In discussing whether Othello can be defined as a tragic hero based on his internal weaknesses, it is essential to explore both his noble qualities and his tragic flaws.

Firstly, Othello's military prowess and integrity place him among the upper echelons of Venetian society. He is admired not just for his achievements as a general, but also for his approach to leadership; he is portrayed as dignified, disciplined, and a respectful husband who values Desdemona as his equal.

However, Othello's inherent weaknesses are significant to his characterization as a tragic hero. His misplaced trust in Iago reveals a critical failure in judgment. Iago's manipulation preys upon Othello's insecurities related to his race and status, leading Othello to question Desdemona's fidelity. This demonstrates that Othello, despite his greatness, is susceptible to naivety and doubt, undermining his rationality.

Moreover, Othello's emotional responses, especially his jealousy and rage, drive him further into a spiral of tragedy. His inability to recognize Iago's deceit results in the destruction of his marriage and ultimately leads to his own downfall. Othello's tragic flaw, which includes his susceptibility to emotional manipulation, underscores the argument that he contains weaknesses within himself that substantially contribute to his demise.

In conclusion, I agree with the statement that Othello's downfall is propelled by his internal weaknesses. While external factors do play a role, the crux of Othello's tragedy lies in his inability to discern the truth and his misguided actions stemming from his own insecurities. Therefore, Othello embodies the characteristics of a tragic hero, as his greatest adversary is ultimately himself.