Thesis Statement
Although a “tragic” hero’s fate may result in death, some awareness and some gain in self-knowledge, before his death, is involved.
Shakespeare
Aristotle
Othello’s Character
Lago’s Character
Tragedy
Tragic Hero
Shakespeare’s characters are highly developed and one can find anywhere. He is known for his immortal characters and they still live today. As Shakespeare matured, he developed characteristic outward circumstance and Othello is an example of that.
Aristotle was the first great theorist of dramatic art. He considers ethical theory as a field distinct from the theoretical sciences where methodology must match the subject matter along with good actions. It must also respect the fact that in this field, generalizations hold only for the most part. Ethics are studied to improve life; therefore, the principal concern is the nature of human well-being. Aristotle regards ethical virtues such as justice, courage, and temperance as emotional and social skills. (Kraut, Richard. Aristotle’s Ethics)
Othello is a general in the service of Venice. Although insecurity is his weakness, he is defined as a good, courageous, brave and trustworthy man. He was also known for being to open, naïve, and gullible. Due to circumstances created for him, he becomes suspicious of his wife, Desdemona, who is also sincere and honest. From the beginning, friendship between Othello and Iago is represented as a lie. Ironically, he still trusts his worst enemy, Iago, more than he trusts his honest wife; however, it is unknown to him. This is due to the hints, suggestions and deceit that come his way. Because of his tragic flaws, jealously, and his too trusting nature, in the end Othello is defeated.
Iago is the primary cause of the various betrayals. (Ardolino. Explicator, pg 50-53). He is considered Othello’s worst enemy. He served many years under Othello and felt he had been passed over when his close friend,...