Balance Of Power In Othello

Words: 582
Pages: 3

Introduction
Othello is about people wanting power, even if they have to go against their values to achieve it. Othello, the general of the Venetian army, is the main character. Desdemona, Othello’s wife, is the daughter of Brabantio, a Venetian senator. Desdemona is very loving and gentle towards Othello. You can tell Othello cares deeply as well, but it is less evident than Desdemona. Iago is Othello’s standard bearer. He is well liked by almost all characters and is known for his honesty, which he uses to manipulate people into his destruction of Othello and his relationship with Desdemona. Cassio is Othello’s lieutenant prior to being kicked out of his position through evil acts of Iago. There are examples of racism, sexism, loyalty, and overall insecurity which causes the characters to fall into or contribute to acts of manipulation throughout the play.

Background
…show more content…
Many conflicts were sparked by issues such as racism and sexism. There were also battles over balance of power. Women tended to side with each other and were against men. There are also struggles shown in accepting the power Othello has as a black man in their society. Othello and Iago both show examples of taking advantage of people’s innocence. Othello uses Desdemona’s innocence and soft-heartedness to easily manipulate her and murder her. Iago also convinces Othello of Desdemona being dishonest since he is a man that is known for his trustworthiness and honesty. Othello also shows insecurity when informed of Desdemona’s possible dishonesty, immediately turning against her. There is also racism shown when Othello and Desdemona are married. Subsequently Othello is black and Desdemona is white and her father, Brabantio,