1. The Tragedy of Othello, the Moor of Venice William Shakespeare

2. Tragedy Setting: Act I: Venice Italy = wickedness, murder & loose morals Beautiful & loose women Hot-tempered, aggressive & easily jealous men Act II-V: island of Cyprus

3. Tragedy Major conflict: Othello & Desdemona marry and attempt to build a life together, despite their differences in age, ethnicity and experience. Their marriage is sabotaged by the envious Iago, who convinces Othello that Desdemona is unfaithful.

4. Othello General (outsider) Reputation for courage & good judgment Diplomatic Impassioned Elopes with Desdemona

5. Iago Othello’s ancient Driven by revenge Wicked charming Clever & conniving Plants the seed of doubt

6. Desdemona Beautiful and pure Loyal Compassionate, generous Trusting Loves Othello above all else

7. Cassio Lieutenant Friend of Othello’s Helped him woo her Charming gentleman Educated & well- mannered Roderigo Enamored with Desdemona Gentleman Wealthy Easily mislead

8. Shakespeare’s Universe Greek & Roman concepts of good & evil: Sin of hubris Man/god(s) place Illness, disease Healing Aristotle's tragic hero: has to be worthy Audience has to be able to identify with the hero & feel pity Has a tragic flaw Has to fall Before his end must experience a catharsis, recognize flaw & feel sorrow