The Tragic Tragedy Of William Shakespeare s Othello

Tragedy is described as a drama that has pain, suffering, and loss. In the Merriam- Webster dictionary, we can see tragedy being defined a â€Å"disastrous event† (Webster). We also see in the dictionary that a serious drama that involves a hero’s downfall and an unhappy ending can also be classified as a tragedy. Aristotle, the famous Greek philosopher, provides a more comprehensive definition of tragedy based on drama in a play. Kennedy Gioia gives us, Aristotle’s definition of a tragedy that says â€Å"is an imitation of action of high importance, complete and of some amplitude; in language enhanced by distinct and varying of beauties; acted not narrated; by means of pity and fear effecting its purgation of these emotions.† (Kennedy Gioia†¦show more content†¦Another one of Othello’s flaw was the fact that he can be easily fooled or tricked into believing anything. Othello is just like any other heroes in a play or tragedy. Aristotle states in his definition of a tragic hero that the hero must have a tragic flaw as one of his characteristics. Kennedy Gioia points this out in Aristotle’s definition of tragic hero that â€Å"the hero downfall is the results of his flaw or weakness of character† (Kennedy Gioia 905). Othello was able to be deceived by man who he believed was a friend to him, but Iago only wanted to bring Othello down because of his hatred for Othello. It was because this character flaw that Othello was able to murder his own wife. Iago said that Othello has a â€Å"free and open nature, that thinks men honest that but seem to be so, / And will as tenderly be led by the nose† (1.3.376-378). It’s because of this character flaw that Iago can bring Othello s downfall when Othello starts to believe Iago lies about his wife having an affair. Iago plants the seed of doubt about Othello s wife having an affair with his second in command, Cassio. Iago says to Othello to †Å"Look to your wife; observe her well with Cassio.† (3.3.211). Othello believes that his wife is having an affair due to Iago s lies and Iago bring Othello proof that was false because Othello wouldn’t believe him without any proof of some sort. Othello believes Iago because ofShow MoreRelatedThe Tragedy Of Othello By William Shakespeare757 Words   |  4 Pages The Tragedy of Othello by William Shakespeare William Shakespeare uses many literary devices to enhance and provide greater complexity in his works. More specifically, the theme, symbolism, and dramatic irony are used to enrich Shakespeare’s The Tragedy of Othello. The plot is definitely engaging but the theme allows for an universal human correspondence, furthering the depth of the author’s message. The element of symbolism contributes to the theme of Shakespeare’s tragedy. 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