Othello's characteristics

To define Othello's characteristics, I will be using two extracts taken from the play (lines 75-90 and lines 130-155) to support my views on Othello's character.

The first extract (lines 75-90) takes place in Act 1 Scene 3, where Brabantio publicly accuses Othello of abducting and seducing his daughter, Desdemona, in front of the Duke and the Venetian Senators. The extract is Othello's explanation to Brabantio, to elucidate what really happened between him and Desdemona.

Despite Brabantio's insults and wild accusations, Othello begins his explanation in a calm, respectful and graceful manner:

"My very noble and approved good masters"

If he had replied in an argumentative or antagonistic tone, it would show that there is an element of truth within Brabantio's accusations. However, by replying in such a calm manner and a respectful tone, shows that Othello has nothing to conceal.

As Othello is confident of himself in this situation, he agrees with Brabantio's accusation:

"That I have tane away this old man's daughter,

It is most true"

But he only agrees to the extent that he did take Desdemona away; as he then goes on to say "it is most true; true that I have married her".

From the Library of Congress: TITLE: Thos. W. Keen...

Othello Relating His Adventures - Steel engraving,...

Othello

From my point of view, for Othello to admit that he did take away Brabantio's daughter, but in the sense that "taken" is a figure of speech for marrying her, and not in the way that Brabantio has accused him of. This shows that Othello did not mean any harm within his actions, and does not see himself guilty for what he has done.. The fact that he still speaks in a peaceful tone and manner symbolises that he is overly confident and sees the situation from his perspective that he has done no wrong towards Brabantio.

Although the...