Morality and Destiny in Othello Essay -- Othello essays

Morality and Destiny in Othello They are questions as old as civilization itself. Does man have control over his own destiny? Is man ultimately held accountable for his actions by a higher power? inside the plays of William Shakespeare can be found such fundamental questions and conflicts of humanity, as well as situations, attitudes, and problems that continue to hold strong universal meaning to this day. During his lifetime, morality was at the forefront of societys concerns. Outstanding men such as Newton, Copernicus, Bacon, and Locke were leading great advances in science and reason, and these new ways of thinking, combined with the need for order and ghostlike stability provided the perfect foundation for the development of the morality-based style of writing which is especially evident in his powerful tragedies. ..........Shakespeares tragic heroes and villains have flaws which are synonymous with Christian sins. Greed, lust, envy, and jealousy are consistently among the i ssues that arise with these characters. The idea that improper dealings with such evil emotions must surely lead to a terrible pot is consistently demonstrated. Sylvan Barnet notes that after creating this world of certain consequences the author adds a special twist to his tragedy for it insists that the good are rewarded and the bad are penalise (227). In William Shakespeares classic tragedy, Othello, the playwright emphasizes the belief in mans inability to control his own destiny because of the actions of rivals, the emotional conflict within himself, and the moral guidance of the universe. ..........From the intrusion of this tragic play, conflict begins to brew in the soul of the title characters ensign, Iago. ... ...use of the actions of rivals, the emotional conflict within himself, and the moral guidance of the universe. Introduction I......Iago plants the seeds of hate. .......A..... Iago plots against Othello. ......B......Others are affected by Iagos web of revenge. ......C......Coincidence and opportunities for deceit arise. II.....Emotional conflict brews within the minds of the characters. ......A......Othello struggles with trust and honor. ......B......Iago is a product of his own insecurities. ......C......Roderigo, Emelia, and Cassio fight their emotions. III....In a triumph of morality, Gods justice prevails. .......A.....Desdemona dies an innocent death, and Othello commits suicide. .......B......Cassios honor is reinstated. .......C. ....Iago declares his ease and realizes his punishment. Conclusion