preview

Jealousy In Shakespeare's Othello

Decent Essays

‘Othello’ is another of William Shakespeare’s tragedies, embracing the complex ideas and the intrinsic nature of the human condition. The 1603 text encompasses around Othello, a tragic hero who allowed his fatal flaws, honour and reputation, to inevitably lead to his demise. The textual integrity of this Elizabethan tragedy has been preserved, allowing a critical analysis of various issues addressed within the play which still resonates in today’s society. Shakespeare accentuates the vulnerability of humanity, and confronts universal concerns such as discrimination and the effects of jealousy in the form of pride and deceptions. Consequently, Shakespeare’s Othello in conjunction with its relevance in our society allows the audience to gain …show more content…

Shakespeare has represented this concept through, Despite his victories in battle, Othello possesses emotions of self-consciousness and insecurity. This is examined in the quote, “For I am black, and have not these soft parts of conversation...or for I am declined into the vale of years”. (Act 3 Scenes 3) This depicts the uncertainty of living in a Venetian society because of ethnic origin, his lack of depth in speech and the age gap between his lover Desdemona and himself. However, this perception is contradicted by Desdemona’s continual faithfulness towards Othello. “So much duty as my mother show’d to you...so much I challenge that I may profess due to the Moor, my lord.” (Act 1 Scenes 3) suggests Desdemona has no interest in cheating on Othello, and understands the devotion required in a marriage, alike her mother. Shakespeare continues to enforce her loyalty using subtle forms of representation throughout the text. “Have you not sometimes seen a handkerchief, spotted with strawberries in your wife’s hand?” (Act 3 Scenes 3) emphasises this idea, with the symbolic reference of the strawberries being Desdemona’s virgin blood, again demonstrating her faithfulness towards Othello. Answer

Get Access