Othello--Question Two

Shakespeare's play "Othello" can be categorized as a tragedy. It is considered a tragedy because it tells a sad, complex story with deeper themes such as racism, jealousy, and greed. These themes are clearly visible in the first scene of the first act. We quickly see Iago's jealousy of Othello; he is angry because Othello did not choose him for second in command (I.i.7-17) & is jealous of the man chosen who has "never set a squadron in the field, nor the division of battle knows more than the spinster...mere prattle without practice" (I.i.21-26). Racism is blatant in Brabantio's speech to Othello about him using black magic to steal his daughter; he makes racist comments, such as the one about his "sooty bosom" (I.ii.70). Greed is apparent throughout the entire first act in Iago because he is clearly full of trickery and plotting in order to gain whatever he wants. These themes are able to easily classify "Othello" as one of Shakespeare's tragedies. It is vital that the audience understand & feel these themes to help them in realizing that this play is a tragedy.