However, it is important to go beyond this and investigate Othello’s downfall as a result of a more complex persona. Bradley famously termed his ‘fatal flaw’. Othello’s tragic demise is commonly perceived to derive from his most undesired character trait, jealousy, which A.C. Othello murders his wife, Desdemona, then takes his own life. Othello’s fate however takes a turn when Desdemona’s father does not accept him, and his manipulative ensign, Iago, proves untrustworthy, convincing Othello that his wife is unfaithful. His military talents have earned him respect and valuable alliances, and he has even won the affections and hand of the “most exquisite” (Act 2, Scene 3) and beautiful Desdemona.

Although an outsider, as a Moor in a white society, Othello is now accepted due to his conversion to Christianity.

Othello is also a gifted storyteller and has a way with words, sharing his travels and experiences eloquently. This harsh, adventurous, and eventful past shaped him into a “valiant” (Act 1, Scene 3), “brave” (Act 2, Scene 1) and level-headed soldier, and he is now a well-respected, highly ranked member of the Venetian army.

He was sold into slavery at a very young age and spent his youth living in army camps. Othello is a Moor, and a celebrated general in the Venetian army. Of one that loved not wisely but too well.

Othello characters