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Essay / Research Paper Abstract
A 3 page essay that discusses Aristotle's definition of tragedy and then shows how Shakespeare's Othello fits this definition, describing his character and downfall. Bibliography lists 3 sources.
Page Count:
3 pages (~225 words per page)
File: KL9_khothechar.rtf
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Unformatted sample text from the term paper:
must be "good or fine" but also have a "tragic flaw," which causes the protagonist to "mistakenly bring about his own downfall-not because he is sinful or morally weak, but
because he does not know enough" (McManus). Examination of the character of Shakespeares Othello demonstrates that he perfectly fits with Aristotles parameters. In the first act, Shakespeare establishes Othello
a good man who has high values and considerable life experience. The speech that Othello makes before the Duke of Venice, defending himself on the charges brought against him by
Desdemonas father Brabantio, relates his life story and establishes this understanding of Othellos character. Othello relates that he is of noble birth, as he is descended from African royalty and
also that he has endured considerable hardship, but he has always triumphed over adversity and risen to his current position as leader of the Venetian military due to his skill
and intelligence. After hearing this speech, which Othello delivers eloquently, but also without ostentation, the Duke comments that Othellos tale would "win my daughter too" (I.3.171). Othellos speech is
set against the overt and vicious racism that occurs in the opening conversation between Iago and Roderigo. Iago describes Othello as an "old black ram" (I.i.88), "the devil" (I.i.91), as
well as a "Barbary horse" (I.i.111). As this indicates, the two men are particularly repulsed at the thought of Othello and Desdemona making love, as they know that
they have recently been wed. As this indicates, the nobility of Othellos spirit is contrasted against his physical appearance and the fact that he is of African descent. The
beginning of the play also establishes that Othello is insecure within European society, as he is well aware of his position as "other" due to the color of his skin.
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