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Feminist Lens Essay On Othello

487 Words2 Pages

Gavin Obringer Monroe 2A 03/09/24. Othello Essay In William Shakespeare's "Othello," the character of Iago stands as a fascinating subject for feminist literary analysis. While the play centers on the tragic downfall of Othello and Desdemona, Iago's manipulative actions and his interactions with other characters offer a good example of exploring gender dynamics and power structures through a feminist lens. At first glance, Iago appears to be a straightforward villain motivated solely by jealousy and a desire for revenge. However, a deeper examination reveals that his actions are driven by a complex web of societal expectations and gender norms. Through his manipulation of characters like Othello, Cassio, and even his own wife Emilia, Iago …show more content…

Despite being his wife, Iago consistently belittles and manipulates Emilia, treating her as little more than a pawn in his schemes. For instance, he pressures her into stealing Desdemona's handkerchief, a symbol of her fidelity, without regard for her own agency or well-being. This dynamic reflects the broader societal expectation of women as subservient to men, reinforcing the idea that women exist primarily to serve the desires of their husbands. Furthermore, Iago's manipulation of Desdemona and other female characters can also be seen as an expression of patriarchal control. By sowing seeds of doubt and suspicion in Othello's mind regarding Desdemona's fidelity, Iago effectively undermines her agency and autonomy within their marriage. This echoes the historical reality of women being subjected to male scrutiny and judgment, with their reputations and even lives often hanging in the balance. However, it's important to note that Iago's actions are not solely motivated by a desire to assert patriarchal dominance. In fact, his manipulation of gender norms and expectations serves as a means to an end, namely his own advancement and revenge. By exploiting societal attitudes towards women, Iago is able to manipulate the men around him, ultimately furthering his own

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