Reflection on Leavis Reading of Othello Essay Example

role in persuading Othello is minor, as he merely poses a harmless question in Act 3 Scene 3 regarding Cassio's honesty. This query, if not spurred by pre-existing jealousy, would have been interpreted as innocent and unassuming.

The comments of others, particularly Iago, present new implications and allegations about the character Othello. This causes instability in his emotions which ultimately leads to the downfall of his love for Desdemona. Andrew Prelusky and other literary analysts share this analysis by emphasizing that tragic heroes must experience a shift from good fortune to misfortune, which Othello fails to do due to his inherent flaws. However, Leavis argues that Othello's inability to learn from his tragic downfall contributes to the story's tragedy. Even in his soliloquy directed towards the audience, Othello requests to be remembered as someone who "loved well but not wisely" and was not inclined towards jealousy.

Although Othello declares his ability to love fully and completely, his behavior in the narrative contradicts this statement as he fails to acknowledge his own imperfections and gives in to jealousy. This indecisiveness and disappointment for readers is heightened by Leavis' claim that Othello's feelings towards Desdemona are uncertain. The uncertainty surrounding the sincerity of Othello's emotions adds further intricacy to the tale.

Leavis posits that Othello did not genuinely love Desdemona but rather used her to fulfill his own desires. Despite appreciating her benevolence and unselfishness, he never truly loved her. Leavis references Othello's final speech bemoaning his mistreatment as evidence that he prioritized his emotions over Desdemona's demise. Although I agree with this depiction of their relationship, I have reservations. Owing to discrimination based on his race, Desdemona's care for

him may have been misconstrued as affection stemming from a desperate longing for love.

Both Leavis and I agree that Othello's relationship with Desdemona declined because of his jealousy and self-destructive behavior. Leavis' analysis aligns with my impartial view on the matter, highlighting these themes in Othello. Furthermore, Andrew Prelusky's independent assessment supports the notion of Othello's tragic downfall, lack of affection towards Desdemona, and unfortunate circumstances.