A Who’s Who guide to Othello

Othello is one of Shakespeare’s tragedies.

This mean the hero has a fatal flaw which leads to his downfall.

Like Macbeth and Romeo and Juliet, Othello ends with a large

body count!

Thursday 6th June

Othello

• General of the Venice army• Highly respected but not a native –

originally from Africa, known as a Moor• Eloquent (Clever speaker) and powerful

figure• A racial and cultural outsider• Before the play starts, has secretly

married Desdemona – but her father doesn’t know this yet!

(Despite his status in the army, being a Moor means he would not approve)

Desdemona

• New bride of Othello• Young daughter of the

powerful Venice senator (politician) Brabantio

• Was seduced by Othello’s heroic war stories

• Her handmaid (Emilia) is Iago’s wife.

Iago

• The villain of the play!• Othello’s ensign – a senior

soldier: Believes he should have been made lieutenant on experience instead of Cassio.

• Hates Othello but the general considers him trustworthy, loyal and honest: Often it is only the audience who know the truth!

• Tricks and manipulates many of the other characters – including his friend Roderigo!

Roderigo

• Young, rich and a bit of an idiot!

• In love with Desdemona – convinced that if he gives him all his money, Iago will help him win Desdemona’s hand (ie. Gullible)

• Jealous of Othello having married his dream girl!

Michael Cassio

• Othello’s lieutenant• Highly educated but

young and inexperienced in battle

• Cares deeply about his reputation

• Iago hates Cassio!