In Othello, there are many characters and relationships used to explore the flaws of contemporary society. Tragedy as a form was popular in Jacobean times, with plays that explore a hero falling from a high position of power due to factors such as hubris or fate. This does form the basis of Othello, but, with such an opportunity to comment on human behaviour and social conventions, Shakespeare crafts the play with unusual aspects. As well as altering the classic form of Aristotle's tragedy by having several subplots and the play taking place over months, he makes the protagonist black. From a dominant reading, this may appear immediately refreshing and commendable but the content of the play makes it hard for some audiences and readers to come to terms with Shakespeare's beliefs. Ultimately, he presents Othello as a conflicted man who sometimes lives up to his 'Moorish' stereotype which also having the ability to rise above it. Shakespeare does this to highlight the problems of integration and cohesion but it is from a humanitarian stance, rather than a racist one.
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