Question #2

Othello is a tragedy. A tragedy is defined as a dramatic composition, often in verse, dealing with a serious or somber theme, typically that of a great person destined through a flaw of character or conflict with some overpowering force, as fate or society, to downfall or destruction. In my opinion, some points of the play reflect the aspects of a tragedy but some do not. Although I have not reached the end of the play, I do not think Othello has a tragic flaw that most heroes posess in tragedies. One of the aspects that do contribute to the type of play is that of evil Iago. Iago plots against the hero throughout the entire play, which would reflect the "conflict with some overpowering force." I believe that Iago's plan will also cause complete destruction to the city of Venice and it's people. All of these characteristics of tragedies are important for the audience to be aware of. It is essential to know the tragic flaw or the overpowering conflict to understand the themes of the tragedy.