To what extent does Othello conform to the classical idea of tragedy?

Othello is probably the closest Shakespeare came to writing a tragedy which conforms to the Aristotelian interpretation of the form. Multiple tropes of classical tragedy may be found in the play. For instance, Aristotle claimed that a tragedy's protagonist must have a hamartia - a flaw which leads to their downfall. It could be said Othello's hamartia is the infallible faith he places in Iago. If Othello had at least once questioned Iago's judgement, then his downfall and the play's tragic climax could both have been averted, demonstrating that the character of Othello conforms to the classical idea of a tragic protagonist. 

Aristotle also claimed that a tragedy must contain a perepeteia - a sudden moment of realisation that catalyses the play's tragedy. In Othello, it could be said the perepeteia is when Othello finds Desdemona's handkerchief, and Iago subsequently tries to convince him of her disloyalty. This moment sees Othello's character change from one of civility and benevolence to one of vengefulness; a transition which results in the play's tragic end. 

Related English Literature A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do you approach feminism and femininity in an essay on Shakespeare’s 'King Lear?' (OCR marking criteria)


Explore the way in which authors present women in Bram Stoker’s Dracula and one other key Gothic text


Text A: Charles Dickens , David Copperfield 1850, Text B: Twain, introduction of Chapters from my autobiography,1906. Document C: Magritte, Décalcomania 1966- How do writers/artists use their chosen medium to reveal their inner self?


What is an example of a strong analysis of a quotation?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences