The full title of the play Othello by William Shakespeare is The Tragedy of Othello, the Moor of Venice. Written in 1603, this piece of literature impresses a lot of readers even nowadays. The play tells a tragic tells story of the Moor Othello and his loyal wife, Desdemona.
Detailed answer:
The play Othello is one of the most popular ones worldwide. Being an iconic piece of art, it is becoming increasingly popular every day. Othello is the commonly known title of the play. But do you know that this a shortened version? Initially, the book is called The Tragedy of Othello, the Moor of Venice. Thus, the play’s title reveals its genre – the tragedy and the core theme – racism.
The play is incredibly insightful. The entire book explores the issues of racial prejudice and betrayal. The main character of the play is a Moorish general of the Venetian army – Othello. Being a representative of different rase, Othello faces numerous offenses from the surrounding people. The main antagonist of the play, Iago, hates Othello and openly expresses his immoral attitude:
“I hate the Moor:
And it is thought abroad, that ‘twixt my sheets
He has done my office: I know not if’t be true;
But I, for mere suspicion in that kind,
Will do as if for surety. He holds me well;
The better shall my purpose work on him.”
(Act 1, scene 3)
Constantly experiencing insults, Othello finally gives up and accepts his outsider status. He becomes incredibly vulnerable and loses his mind. Meanwhile, Iago continues implementing his evil plan and hurts more and more innocent people. The tragic end of the play never leaves the readers indifferent.
The Tragedy of Othello, the Moor of Venice is not an original Shakespeare’s idea. The play is based on the novel Un Capitano Moro by Cinthio. However, due to Shakespeare’s outstanding artistic skills, the play remains popular for several sentries already.
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