Othello Questions
In Othello, Iago can be considered a stage Machiavel, a character who embodies the principles of Machiavelli in The Prince. Do some research on The Prince and pay attention to the characteristics of a Machiavellian prince. Is Iago the ideal Machiavellian “prince?” Why or why not? Make sure to address specific Machiavellian principles and specific moments in the play in which Iago either reflects or does not reflect these principles.
Note: It would be wise to cite The Prince for this paper.
Iago is sometimes called the finest villain that Shakespeare had ever written. However, make an argument defending Iago against critics who see him as simply an evil, deceiving villain. How might Iago not be single-handedly responsible for Othello’s downfall? How can he be seen as “honest,” too? What specific mitigating factors might help defend him?
What makes Cassio, Emilia, and Roderigo essential to understanding the major characters of the play? How might these supporting characters be dramatic foils for the three major characters – Othello, Desdemona, and Iago? What do they specifically reflect of these characters? Make sure to address all three supporting characters in your essay.
Some would argue that the conflicts in the play result from characters becoming isolated from each other and their society. What does the play say about this theme of isolation? Which characters are isolated and what effect does isolation have on them? What specific evidence is provided that isolation has played a factor in their successes or failures?
Critics often point out that Othello is trapped between “appearances and reality” and that is a central theme of the play. What does this phrase “appearances versus reality” mean in this play and how is Othello specifically “trapped” between them? What specific characters, settings, or other elements in the play represent either side – either “appearance” or “reality?”
Many readers are confused by Desdemona’s seeming passivity in her death and see her as simply a tragic victim by the end of the play, completely changed from her first appearance. Analyze the character of Desdemona. How might she be seen as a strong or weak character whose specific choices and decisions can be seen as either admirable or pitiful?
