Othello Paper

Most people possess a weakness or a flaw that brings upon tragedy during their life. In Shakespeare’s Othello, the villainous Iago manipulates Othello, Iago, and Cassio’s weaknesses in order to accomplish his ends. Cassio’s propriety, Othello’s quick temper and passion and Roderigo’s unrequited love for Desdemona eventually contribute to all of their downfalls.
Iago plans to destroy Othello by depending on Othello’s inability to control his passionate side. Othello’s temper is first seen during Act II when Cassio becomes drunk and quarrels with Roderigo. When Othello discovers Cassio’s actions, Othello becomes infuriated and quickly allows his passion overcome his reason, just as Iago had predicted. Othello warns men not to get in his way when his temper begins to take over stating that, “passion, having my best judgment collied, / Assays to lead the way” (II.iii.198-199). Othello’s tendency to become o...