OTHELLO Tragedy Shakespearian tragedies occur when at least

OTHELLO

Tragedy ■ Shakespearian tragedies occur when at least one character dies—death is the single most definitive element of a tragedy. ■ Typically very dramatic ■ In the case of Othello, it involves love and lies at the heart of its plot

Moor ■ This is a term that refers to Muslim inhabitants of various regions, including Italy, during the Middle Ages. ■ These people were originally from North Africa. ■ The Moors were typically seen in a negative light —as an outsider

Othello ■ ■ Christian Moor General within armies in Venice, Italy Typically respected by those around him Eloped and married Desdemona (before play begins) – People look down on the marriage because “mixed” marriages were not common, so people would react poorly out of their own

Desdemona ■ Daughter of Brabantio ■ Secretly eloped and married to Othello (before play begins) – Loves him for who he is, although he becomes accused of working magic on her for making her love him

Brabantio ■ Desdemona’s father ■ A Venetian senator ■ Friend of Othello

Iago ■ Is an officer of Othello’s ■ Villain of the play ■ Othello did not choose to promote him to his lieutenant, and although Iago doesn’t appreciate this, his motives for messing with people aren’t entirely clear. It’s quite possibly self-satisfaction. ■ Despite being the villain, most of his actions control the direction of the play

Roderigo ■ A gentleman who is in love with Desdemona ■ He gave Iago a lot of money to get Iago to help him win over Desdemona ■ Ends up working together with Iago

Emilia ■ Wife to Iago ■ Attendant to Desdemona

Michael Cassio ■ Othello’s appointed lieutenant ■ Young and inexperienced, he is resented by Iago ■ Devoted to Othello

Bianca ■ A courtesan (prostitute) in Cyprus ■ In love with Cassio

Minor Characters ■ ■ ■ ■ Senators Montano, Governor of Cyprus Gentlemen of Cyprus Lodovico and Gratiano, two noble Venetians Sailors Clown Messenger, herald, officers, ect.