Othello: Tragic Hero

Othello: Tragic Hero

Tragic Hero
Othello, the protagonist in The Tragedy of Othello by William Shakespeare, downfalls from a highly respected general to a jealous man who murders his own wife and himself. To begin, Othello, general from Venice, receives high respect from the townspeople. The Duke of Venice requests Othello to go to Cyprus after the news that a Turkish fleet will soon arrive: “Valiant Othello, we must straight employ you/Against the general enemy Ottoman” (1.3.53-54). The Duke requests Othello to go to war, not only because of superior military experience, but also due to his high rank. Once there, however, Othello suffers from a moral dilemma: “the green eyed monster.” Othello becomes convinced that his wife, Desdemona, behaves unfaithfully to him with his lieutenant, Cassio. Othello exclaims, “…Yet she must die, else she’ll betray more men…” (5.2.6). Othello plans the death of Desdemona, which includes smothering her in her bed. Othello believes Desdemona should no longer live due to the ideas that have fabricated in his head regarding her unfaithfulness. Due to Othello’s jealousy, Desdemona suffers greatly. Finally, after killing Desdemona, Othello begins to suffer with tremendous guilt. This ultimately leads to his tragic death. Following Othello is learning about the handkerchief, Othello’s guilt worsens. He asks for the truth regarding the handkerchief: “…How came you, Cassio, by that handkerchief/That was my wife’s?” (5.2.371-372). With Desdemona dead, Othello discovers the truth concerning the handkerchief and kills himself for murdering his wife due to the great remorse he feels. In conclusion, Othello’s jealousy corrupts his outstanding leadership, which eventually leads to his tragic downfall.

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