Othello as Tragic Hero

Essay by wydrap001High School, 11th gradeA+, April 2006

download word file, 5 pages 3.0

If one reads Shakespeare's "Othello", they can come to the conclusion that it might be one of the his most tragic plays ever written by Shakespeare. "Romeo and Juliet", is probably the most famous of his tragic plays, but "Othello", has characteristics that, I think make it even more tragic then his other plays, and therefore for that reason, you can say that Othello is the most tragic hero.

Othello is a noble man, one who has grace with the ladies but also possesses all the virtues of a military leader that he is. He is a general that is experienced in battle. He has shown that he is reliable and well known in the military and is well respected. His valiant personality, is what draws people to him, as it does for Desdemona. The senators value him and hear what he says when he speaks. This is shown here by one of the senators.

"Here comes Barbantio and the valiant Moor", (Act I scene 3, 47) . This is an example of the many comments which shows Othello's character and personality as a person and an officer. They say he is one of the great leaders.

Not only does he posses great character and courage, but also dignity. He keeps his control even when he is being accused of witchcraft during the first encounter with the senators when Desdemona's father confronts him about see his daughter.

"Most potent, grave, and reverend signors,

My very noble and approved good masters;

That I have ta'en away this old man's daughter,

It is most true; true I have married her.

The very head and front of my offending

Hath the extent, no more. Rude I am in my speech,

And little blessed with the soft phrase of peace;"...