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What a laugh. In that body of criticism which cares about "tragic heroes" and whether particular characters fall into the definition of that term, everyone is always looking for the "tragic flaw" without which, we are told, someone cannot be a tragic hero. Therefore Macbeth is ambitious and Hamlet is "the man who cannot make up his mind". The characters are reduced to this one characteristic, and considered as one-dimensional as possible so they can fit the definition. Basically, "tragic hero" equals "one-dimensional."

But anyway, Othello is not as one-dimensional as all that. Yes, as the play unfolds he becomes more and more obsessed with the issue of whether his wife has been unfaithful to him. That's called character development. But right up until the end (well, Desdemona's end) he is struggling with his doubts (which he tells himself are proven) and with the genuine love he so obviously feels for his wife. I'd say that Othello may be not one-dimensional enough to be a tragic hero.

If you want a really one-dimensional Shakespearean character, check out Aaron in Titus Andronicus.

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Who said that a tragic hero could either be a nobleman or a common man?

Othello


What is the name of the author of Othello?

Othello was written by William Shakespeare. Shakespeare clearly views the events of the play as tragic. He seems to view the marriage between Desdemona and Othello as noble and heroic, for the most part.


What is the significance of Desdemona's handkerchief?

Desdemona's handkerchief in Shakespeare's "Othello" serves as a symbol of love, fidelity, and the tragic consequences of jealousy. Originally a gift from Othello, it represents their bond, but when it falls into the hands of Iago, it becomes a tool for manipulation and deceit. Iago uses it to convince Othello of Desdemona's infidelity, ultimately leading to Othello's tragic downfall. Thus, the handkerchief embodies the themes of trust and betrayal that permeate the play.


Whose fault was it for everyone dying at the end of the book Othello?

In Shakespeare's "Othello," the tragedy of the characters' deaths can primarily be attributed to Iago's manipulative schemes, which exploit the vulnerabilities and insecurities of Othello and others. Iago's deceitful nature drives Othello to jealousy and rage, leading to tragic decisions. However, Othello's own flaws, particularly his susceptibility to jealousy and his failure to seek the truth, also play a significant role in the unfolding tragedy. Ultimately, it is a combination of Iago's manipulation and Othello's tragic flaws that leads to the devastating conclusion.


What are the similarities and differences between Othello and Richard III?

Othello was the one being manipulated whreas Richard III was the one manipulating everyone. Both are tragic heroes

Related Questions

Who is Othello in shapespeare?

Othello is one of Shakespeare's tragic heros.


What was the climax of the novel OTHELLO?

The climax of Shakespeare's "Othello" occurs in Act 5, Scene 2, when Othello confronts Desdemona about her alleged infidelity, believing Iago's deceitful accusations. In a fit of jealousy and rage, Othello ultimately murders Desdemona. This tragic act marks the turning point of the play, leading to the unraveling of Othello's character and the revelation of Iago's manipulations, culminating in the tragic downfall of Othello and the destruction of those around him.


Who said that a tragic hero could either be a nobleman or a common man?

Othello


What is the name of the author of Othello?

Othello was written by William Shakespeare. Shakespeare clearly views the events of the play as tragic. He seems to view the marriage between Desdemona and Othello as noble and heroic, for the most part.


Who is the betrayer of the moor?

In Shakespeare's play "Othello," the betrayer of the Moor is Iago. He orchestrates a series of manipulations and deceitful actions that lead to Othello's tragic downfall.


What is the significance of Desdemona's handkerchief?

Desdemona's handkerchief in Shakespeare's "Othello" serves as a symbol of love, fidelity, and the tragic consequences of jealousy. Originally a gift from Othello, it represents their bond, but when it falls into the hands of Iago, it becomes a tool for manipulation and deceit. Iago uses it to convince Othello of Desdemona's infidelity, ultimately leading to Othello's tragic downfall. Thus, the handkerchief embodies the themes of trust and betrayal that permeate the play.


Whose fault was it for everyone dying at the end of the book Othello?

In Shakespeare's "Othello," the tragedy of the characters' deaths can primarily be attributed to Iago's manipulative schemes, which exploit the vulnerabilities and insecurities of Othello and others. Iago's deceitful nature drives Othello to jealousy and rage, leading to tragic decisions. However, Othello's own flaws, particularly his susceptibility to jealousy and his failure to seek the truth, also play a significant role in the unfolding tragedy. Ultimately, it is a combination of Iago's manipulation and Othello's tragic flaws that leads to the devastating conclusion.


Who are some tragic heros in literature?

Macbeth Hamlet King Lear Othello to name a few


What are the similarities and differences between Othello and Richard III?

Othello was the one being manipulated whreas Richard III was the one manipulating everyone. Both are tragic heroes


What elements of a traditional greek tragedy is found in Othello a prophet or seer to predict the end or a main character in a position of power?

In "Othello," elements of traditional Greek tragedy are evident through the character of Othello himself, who occupies a position of power as a general. The play also features a prophetic element in the form of Iago's manipulations, which foreshadow Othello's tragic downfall. Additionally, the theme of fate versus free will parallels the tragic inevitability found in Greek tragedies, as Othello's choices, influenced by Iago, lead to his ruin. These elements combine to create a narrative steeped in the tragic consequences of hubris and deception.


Is ambition a main theme is Othello?

Yes, ambition is a central theme in Shakespeare's "Othello." Characters like Iago demonstrate how unchecked ambition can lead to manipulation and betrayal, as he schemes to destroy Othello out of envy and a desire for power. Othello's own ambitions, both personal and professional, contribute to his tragic downfall, as they make him vulnerable to Iago's machinations. Ultimately, the interplay of ambition and jealousy drives the play's tragic events.


Do you agree that Othello is a domestic tragedy?

Certainly. It is a tragedy, as the characters we sympathize with end up dead. It is domestic, because the locus of the tragic events is the marriage between Othello and Desdemona.