Characters: Othello (Grade 12 NSC Matric English HL): Revision Notes
Characters: Othello
Introduction to Othello's character
Othello serves as the tragic hero of Shakespeare's play, yet he begins as a somewhat distant figure from much of the early action. In the opening scenes, other characters discuss him using racial slurs rather than his actual name, referring to him through derogatory terms that emphasise his otherness in Venetian society. This technique allows Shakespeare to build mystery around Othello whilst simultaneously highlighting the racial prejudice he faces.
The protagonist doesn't appear until well into the first act, and we don't hear his name spoken until Act 1, Scene 3. This delayed introduction creates anticipation and allows the audience to form impressions based on how others perceive him before meeting the man himself.
Shakespeare's dramatic technique of having Othello discussed before he appears creates a powerful contrast between the racist characterisations others make of him and his actual noble presence when he finally enters the stage.
Othello's position in Venetian society
Military leadership and respect
Despite being a cultural and racial outsider in Venice, Othello holds tremendous value as a military leader. His skills as a soldier and commander make him essential to Venetian society, and he enjoys significant respect from the government. The Duke and Senate clearly trust him, as evidenced by their willingness to place him in complete military and political command of Cyprus.
Othello's importance to Venice is demonstrated through his military achievements and the confidence placed in him by the state. Even in his final moments, he reminds the Venetians of the service he has provided to their state, showing his awareness of his contributions to their society.
The outsider's appeal
Othello possesses what can be described as an exotic appeal that draws others to him, particularly those who consider him their social peer, such as Desdemona and Brabantio. His stories of adventure and his worldly experiences captivate his audience. He openly acknowledges this appeal when speaking to the Duke about winning Desdemona's affection through his tales of adventure and hardship.
Othello's Storytelling Power
Othello demonstrates remarkable skill in captivating his listeners through storytelling. The Duke's response to Othello's account of wooing Desdemona suggests that his narrative power is genuinely compelling and persuasive - the Duke himself admits he would be drawn to such tales.
Character traits and self-awareness
Eloquence and speech
Throughout the play, Othello displays exceptional eloquence and command of language. However, he shows interesting self-consciousness about his speaking abilities, sometimes presenting himself as less articulate than he actually is. He claims to be "rude" in his speech and "little blessed with the soft phrase of peace," yet his actual speaking demonstrates remarkable sophistication and power.
This contradiction between his self-perception and his actual linguistic abilities reveals his awareness of being different from other Venetians. His eloquence remains consistent throughout most of the play, though it becomes strained when he falls under the increasing pressure of Iago's psychological manipulation.
Self-consciousness about difference
Othello frequently acknowledges his status as an outsider, whether because he recognises the exotic appeal he holds for others or because he feels defensive about his differences from typical Venetians. This self-awareness manifests in various ways throughout the play, from his discussions of his background to his reactions to accusations and suspicions.
His consciousness of being different creates both strength and vulnerability in his character. Whilst his unique background and experiences give him appeal and authority, they also make him susceptible to feelings of insecurity that Iago expertly exploits.
Tragic transformation
Vulnerability to manipulation
Despite his strength and composure, Othello proves vulnerable to Iago's psychological manipulation. His position as an outsider, combined with his deep love for Desdemona and his trust in Iago, creates the perfect conditions for his downfall. Iago skilfully plays on Othello's insecurities about his race, age, and cultural differences.
The manipulation gradually erodes Othello's usual composure and eloquence, showing how even the strongest individuals can be broken down through persistent psychological pressure and exploitation of their deepest fears and insecurities.
The Perfect Storm for Manipulation
Iago's success comes from exploiting the intersection of Othello's greatest strengths and vulnerabilities: his love for Desdemona becomes jealousy, his trust becomes gullibility, and his awareness of being different becomes crippling self-doubt.
Maintained dignity
Even in his final moments, Othello manages to regain some of his characteristic composure and dignity. His final speech demonstrates his return to eloquent expression and his ability to influence both the characters on stage and the audience watching. This recovery of his noble bearing in death reinforces his status as a tragic hero rather than merely a victim.
The tension between Othello's victimisation at Iago's hands and his own capacity for terrible action creates the complexity that makes him a compelling tragic figure rather than simply a sympathetic character.
Exam tips
- Quote analysis: Pay attention to how Othello's language changes throughout the play - from eloquent and controlled to fragmented and violent, then back to dignified in his final speech.
- Character development: Track Othello's transformation from respected military leader to jealous husband to tragic hero who recognises his errors.
- Themes connection: Link Othello's character to major themes like racism, jealousy, manipulation, and the conflict between appearance and reality.
Key Points to Remember:
- Othello is both an insider (respected military leader) and an outsider (racial and cultural minority) in Venetian society
- His eloquence and storytelling ability are key strengths that attract others to him, particularly Desdemona
- He shows self-awareness about his differences from other Venetians, which creates both confidence and vulnerability
- His transformation under Iago's manipulation demonstrates how psychological pressure can destroy even noble characters
- He regains his dignity in death, reinforcing his status as a tragic hero who recognises his errors too late