Othello by William Shakespeare

Introduction

Othello (c. 1603) is Shakespeare's most intimate tragedy. Othello, a Moorish general, secretly marries Desdemona. Iago, passed over for promotion, vows revenge through psychological manipulation.

Iago: The Artist of Destruction

Iago has no clear motive—Coleridge called it "the motive-hunting of motiveless malignity." He orchestrates conversations, plants a handkerchief, and watches as Othello's love curdles into murderous jealousy.

The Tragedy of Trust

Othello trusts the wrong person—Iago—and distrusts the right one—his wife. The handkerchief becomes the pivot of the entire tragedy.

Key Takeaways

• Jealousy is self-fulfilling
• Evil can be motiveless
• Trust wisely