Choose A Main Character From Othello And Write A Complete Es

Choose A Main Character From Othello and Write a Complete Essay

Choose a main character from Othello and write a complete essay that focuses on their growth, development, change, and motivations as a character. Your essay should include an introduction with an appropriate thesis statement, and the introduction should provide the author’s name, the title of the story, and identify the character being discussed. The thesis statement should clearly outline what you intend to prove about this character.

There should be at least three body paragraphs, each focusing on different aspects of the character’s development throughout the play. Consider how the character is revealed at the beginning, including examples and quotes that describe their initial traits. Analyze how the character changes over the course of the play, citing specific examples and quotes that demonstrate these changes—whether in actions, attitudes, beliefs, or self-image—and explain why these changes are significant. Near the end of the play, describe the character’s state and provide quotes or examples that illustrate their transformation. Conclude whether these changes are for the better or worse.

The essay must include an effective conclusion that summarizes your main points and provides a thoughtful closing. It should be approximately 1000 words, with no specific mention of outside sources beyond the play itself. The Works Cited page should be on a new page, formatted correctly in MLA style, including only the primary source—the play Othello.

Paper For Above instruction

William Shakespeare’s tragedy Othello offers a profound exploration of human emotions, motivations, and the destructive potential of jealousy and trust. Central to the narrative is Othello himself, a character whose growth, development, and downfall are intricately depicted through the play’s progression. This essay examines Othello’s initial portrayal, his evolving character, and his eventual demise, emphasizing how his internal struggles and external manipulations contribute to his tragic end.

At the outset of Othello, Othello is depicted as a noble and esteemed military general, respected for his valor and integrity. He is characterized by his calm demeanor, confidence, and deep love for Desdemona. For instance, in Act 1, Scene 3, Othello’s speech reveals his self-awareness and dignity: “Rude am I in my speech, / And little blessed with the soft phrase of peace,” (1.3.81-82). This demonstrates his acknowledgment of his outsider status but also his pride in his accomplishments and his sincere love for Desdemona. Early in the play, Othello’s trust and confidence in others make him appear honorable yet somewhat naive to the treacheries that surround him. His initial portrayal as a virtuous and confident leader forms the foundation of his character, setting up the tragic arc that unfolds throughout the play.

As the play progresses, Othello’s character undergoes a significant transformation driven by suspicion, jealousy, and insecurity. Iago’s manipulation plays a crucial role in sowing doubts about Desdemona’s fidelity. Othello begins to exhibit signs of internal turmoil; his language shifts from composed to agitated. A pivotal moment occurs in Act 3, Scene 3, when Othello laments, “O, beware, my lord, of jealousy! / It is the green-eyed monster which doth mock the meat it feeds on” (3.3.165-166). Despite this warning, Othello’s faith diminishes, and his sense of self begins to waver. His change is marked by increasing paranoia, rash actions, and emotional outbursts, illustrating his decline from rationality to destructive obsession. His transformation underscores the destructive power of manipulation and the fragility of trust, revealing a tragic loss of reason and the decline of his noble character.

Near the end of the play, Othello’s tragic downfall culminates in acts of violence driven by misplaced jealousy. His realization of the truth—that Desdemona was innocent—comes too late to save her or himself. A poignant quote near his demise in Act 5, Scene 2, encapsulates his remorse and tragic recognition: “I kissed thee, ere I killed thee. No way but this, / Killing myself, to die upon a kiss” (5.2.363-364). This moment reflects both his remorse and the irreversible nature of his actions. Othello’s character at this point can be described as a broken, remorseful man, devastated by his inability to discern truth from deception. His change from a proud, noble leader to a despairing murderer is catastrophic, emphasizing his tragic flaw—his susceptibility to doubt and jealousy. The transformation is for the worse, illustrating how internal flaws, exploited by malicious external forces, can lead to devastating consequences.

In conclusion, Othello’s character arc is a tragic journey from noble strength to tragic downfall. Initially portrayed as a noble military leader with profound love and trust, his character is gradually eroded by jealousy and manipulation, leading to irrational actions and ultimate destruction. His transformation highlights the destructive effects of insecurity and suspicion, as well as the devastating consequences of misplaced trust. Shakespeare’s depiction of Othello offers a timeless reflection on human vulnerability and the tragic costs of internal and external conflicts, emphasizing the importance of trust and the dangers of allowing destructive emotions to dominate reason.

References

• Shakespeare, William. Othello. Edited by Barbara A. Mowat and Paul Werstine, Folger Shakespeare Library, 1992.