It is believed that Shakespeare wrote Othello in 1603. This play too is a tragedy that revolves around Othello, a Moorish general in the Venetian army, and his treacherous ensign, lago. As some of you might already know, a Moor is a native of North Africa.
A general with great military feats, Othello was married to Desdemona, the daughter of a Venetian senator Brabanzio. While on a mission in Cyprus, his ensign lago manipulates Othello to believe that Desdemona was cheating on him. A vengeful Othello kills his wife only to realise later that he was manipulated. A heartbroken Othello then kills himself. Jealousy leads to his tragic downfall.
Othello is portrayed in the play as a plainspoken, honest man. He is brave and celebrated which becomes the source of lago’s intense hatred for him- lago is one of Shakespeare’s most sinister villains. Othello’s status as an outsider leaves him vulnerable to the plots of lago.
Picture Credit : Google