To what extent can Othello be viewed as a tragic hero?

The key to answering this question successfully is the correct use of terminology as well as coherent analysis of the applicability to each of the five characteristics of a tragic hero- based on Aristotle's definition (Hamartia, Hubris, Peripeteia, Anagnorisis, Nemesis, Catharsis). The main textual evidence of Othello's status as a tragic hero is that he is noble, has a tragic flaw (hamartia) which brings his downfall. Yet an interesting angle students can take on this essay would be to contest the idea that only noblemen can be tragic hero- perhaps using Willy Loman as cross-reference- as well as pointing out that Othello did not actually learn from his mistake, meaning there isn't a full tragic resolution. An important aspect of answering A-Level questions is understanding the command words, and the assessment objectives. 'To what extent' means the students has to evaluate evidence which confirms Othello as a tragic hero, as well as evidence which questions it. The assessment objectives (the AOs) should be evening integrated into the essay; critic's quotes/alternative interpretations (for example, AC Bradley is a good reference for an essay on Shakespeare), cross-referencing other texts to support claims, and textual evidence (ie. symbols, metaphors, style, tone) from the text itself.