Sierra on Othello Intro

Introduction to Othello (Sierra Miranda)

Solomon Alexander Hart:  Othello and Iago Shakespearian scene, 1855 (oil on canvas)
https://www.mutualart.com/Artwork/Othello-and-Iago-Shakespearian-scene/D48BB327680BCD29

In his intro to Othello, Walter Cohen discusses what makes the play so “painfully moving” for the audience. Through the course of the play, the audience sees the Othello’s love for Desdemona cause a tragic end for both. Iago, the antagonist, has suspicions that his wife, Emilia has committed adultery with Othello. To get back at him, he convinces Othello, the protagonist, that his wife Desdemona has committed adultery with Cassio. Although referred to as “Honest Iago”, and coming off as attempting to help everyone in the play, he is actually dishonest as he himself says “I am now what I am” (1.1.163). Through planted evidence, he ignites jealousy and rage causing Othello’s demise as Othello murders his wife and then commits suicide. Cohen notes how the audience experiences an overwhelming sense of loss at the end of the play and how they can relate as “we, too, operate via best guesses. This is the way of the world” (Choen, 1291).

            Also found in the intro is Shakespeare’s references to race, sexual anxieties, and religious concerns throughout the play. There are multiple references to Othello’s African race. Stereotypes include Africans not naturally being jealous, but once provoked they were fierce, naïve nature (1.3.377-380), and the belief that Africans attribute magical powers to objects (the handkerchief, 3.4.64-72).  Typical to Shakspearian work, there are hidden sexual references as “to die” (2.1.181-182) means to have an orgasm and “spotted with strawberries” (3.3.431) refers to the presence of blood upon losing virginity. As a murderer and one who committed suicide, Othello is therefore condemned from meeting Desdemona in heaven. Tragedy is bound to happen with the racial prejudices, Iago’s manipulation, and Desdemona’s and Othello’s love for each other.