Victimization in Shakespeare’s Othello Essay Example

exploitation is distinctly noticeable. His role might not be significant in the narrative, but he is portrayed as a quiet individual that is recurrently exploited, specifically by Iago.

As an example, Roderigo harbors a deep affection for Desdemona and yearns to be in her company. Iago assures him that he can facilitate this by sowing discord between Desdemona and Othello. However, Iago demands extreme payments from Roderigo for his help. From Iago's own confession to Roderigo, "Thus do I ever make a fool of my purse" (I. iii. 363), it is evident that Roderigo is being heavily manipulated through steep charges for the services rendered. Another instance of how Roderigo is taken advantage of comes into view when he reluctantly agrees to execute Cassio's murder at Iago's command; believing such a deed would get him closer to Desdemona.

Iago articulates, “Now, whether he kill Cassio, / Or Cassio him, or each do kill the other, / Every way makes my gain” (V. i. 12-14). This monologue reveals Iago's indifference about the fate of Roderigo, and it shows how he manipulates his friend to do his bidding, regardless of the risks. It becomes evident that Roderigo is consistently mistreated throughout the play. Additionally, Desdemona is arguably the most victimized character. There is an instance where Othello unjustly accuses her of infidelity, resulting in him slapping her. In evident confusion about her husband's anger, Desdemona utters, “Why, sweet Othello? / Devil! I have not deserved this” (Shakespeare IV. i. 223-225).

Despite her innocence, Desdemona suffers unjust abuse and subjugation from Othello as a result of the misleading information he receives about her. The unwarranted

accusations lead to an escalation in torment when she is fatally wounded by Othello. As she succumbs to her injuries, acknowledging her blamelessness, she utters with her last breath, "I die a guiltless death" (V. ii. 125). At the moment of her passing, Othello's judgment is obfuscated by confusion; however, once he grasps the full truth, he recognizes his grave mistake and confesses his unfair treatment towards Desdemona. There is no denying the extensive pain that she endures throughout the play.

Shakespeare's Othello clearly depicts a persistent theme of victimization. Desdemona undergoes unjust treatment due to Othello's misguided actions, which are stimulated by Iago's fabricated tales of her supposed unfaithfulness. Similarly, Roderigo is exploited and forced to agree to all of Iago’s demands while compensating him with exorbitant fees for his assistance. Cassio also suffers mistreatment as Iago devises a plan that nearly leads to his demise. The prevalence of victimhood, a distressing element still prevalent in our society today, aligns with sentiments of envy, anguish and vengeance within the drama.