'Othello' exhibits a similar belief to our own world that stupidity causes more harm than evil. It is challenging to determine the validity of this perspective in Shakespeare's tragedy as both concepts are prevalent. Two relevant passages will be analyzed.
In fulfilling his desires, Iago exploits foolishness, which is exemplified in Act 2 Scene 3. Cassio's intoxication leads him to make foolish remarks about Desdemona, stating that she is beautiful and delicate. This act of stupidity provides Iago with ammunition to use against Othello, exploiting Cassio's attraction to Desdemona.
During a conversation with Iago, Cassio expresses admiration for his general's wife, referring to her as "perfection." However, Iago seems to be manipulating Cassio by questioning him about her and suggesting that he cannot control his feel
...ings. This occurs before Cassio has even had a drink. In the Elizabethan era, such thoughts were considered incestuous and sinful and could result in death if revealed. Therefore, Cassio's unguarded thoughts could be used against him. Despite Iago offering him wine, Cassio refuses.
Despite acknowledging his poor ability to handle alcohol, Cassio is not exhibiting stupidity. His statement "I have poor and unhappy brains for drinking" implies awareness of his limitations. However, Iago persistently taunts him, claiming superiority in drinking: "Why, he drinks you with facility your Dane dead drunk.. " Eventually, Cassio succumbs to peer pressure and says "To the health of our General!" His weakness in yielding suggests foolishness as he risks the consequences of getting drunk for the sake of camaraderie with his acquaintances.
- Othello Jealousy essays
- A Doll's House essays
- A Midsummer Night's Dream essays
- A raisin in the sun essays
- A Streetcar Named Desire essays
- An Inspector Calls essays
- Death of a salesman essays
- Everyman essays
- Fences essays
- Hamlet essays
- Hedda Gabler essays
- Iago essays
- King Lear essays
- Macbeth essays
- Much ado about nothing essays
- Oedipus Rex essays
- Oedipus The King essays
- Othello essays
- Pygmalion essays
- Romeo And Juliet essays
- Tartuffe essays
- The glass menagerie essays
- The Importance of Being Earnest essays
- The Merchant Of Venice essays
- The Taming of The Shrew essays
- Twelfth Night essays
- Waiting For Godot essays
