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Examples Of Tragic Flaws In Othello

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Othello: A Tragic Hero’s Downfall due to Character Flaws Many people think power comes with protection. While shields and swords provide physical armor, the mind remains unprotected. Having power leaves a vulnerability like no other and creates a harbinger of tragedy. Othello is a Shakespearean tragedy written by William Shakespere that showcases the power of jealousy and tragedy and how those flaws destroy everything in their path. Othello’s tragic downfall is a result of his overly trusting character, vulnerability to jealousy, and his inability to foresee the consequences of his own actions. Othello’s biggest characteristic flaw is trusting people around him by assuming they respect his position and power. Othello trusts Iago as both his friend and Standard-bearer. However, Iago has proved to be selfish as he only follows Othello to benefit himself. “I follow him to serve my turn.” (Oth.1.1.42). Iago maintains this perspective throughout the entirety …show more content…

Whether good or bad one must ruminate on the outcome. However, when emotions are manipulated, consequences are not taken into account. As Othello plans to kill Desdemona he states, “Forth of my heart those charms, thine eyes, are blotted; Thy bed, lust-stained, shall with lust’s blood be spotted.” (5.1.35-36). With Othello so blinded by pure rage and jealousy, he is finding comfort in the fact that her guilty blood will soon be displayed on the sheets when he kills her. Othello is not thinking about the aftermath of his planned murder. His actions showcase his trust in Iago as Othello takes his word over Desdemona’s. The tragic hero is so caught up in his emotions he does not stop to ponder what killing Desdemona would do to not only himself, but the people of Cyprus. His overly trusting character listened to the first piece of advice from Iago without thinking about his future. As a result, he tragically takes his own life out of horror and

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