Othello by William Shakespeare is a tragedy written in 1603 about the Moorish general Othello who, after promoting Michael Cassio over Iago, becomes the victim of Iago’s malicious scheme. Iago deceives Othello into believing his wife, Desdemona, is unfaithful, which leads to jealousy, betrayal, and multiple tragic deaths. The play includes themes of racism, manipulation, and domestic violence.

Othello by William Shakespeare is widely praised for its compelling exploration of jealousy, race, and betrayal. Critics commend its rich character development and timeless themes. However, some find the plot implausible and Iago's motivations unconvincing. Overall, it remains a powerful and thought-provoking tragedy.

Ideal for readers who appreciate intense drama, complex characters, and timeless themes of jealousy, love, and betrayal, Othello by William Shakespeare captivates those who enjoy works like Macbeth and Wuthering Heights. Fans of tragic heroes and classic literature will find it compelling.

Dark / Mysterious / Unnerving / Emotional / Romantic

- Othello features one of Shakespeare's most famous stage directions, "He smothers her," a direction that is both understated and dramatic, occurring at a pivotal moment in the play.
- The character of Othello is unique in Shakespeare's works as he is one of the few protagonists who is a person of color, which has sparked extensive analysis and discussion regarding race and representation in literature.
- The first recorded performance of Othello was on November 1, 1604, at Whitehall Palace in London, making it one of the earlier plays performed during the Jacobean era.

**Iago**  
A captain in the Venetian defense forces who is passed over for promotion by Othello in favor of Cassio. Iago seeks revenge on Othello, exploiting other characters’ insecurities and instigating chaos through manipulation.

**Roderigo**  
A rejected suitor of Desdemona, manipulated by Iago to serve his schemes. Roderigo is tricked into giving Iago money and is led to try ruining Cassio's career.

**Brabantio**  
A Venetian senator and Desdemona's father who opposes her marriage to Othello because of Othello's race. His bigotry and misogyny provide a foundation for the insecurities Iago exploits.

**Desdemona**  
A good-natured Venetian woman who falls in love with Othello. She elopes with him, defying societal expectations and demonstrating strong will.

**Cassio**  
Othello's new lieutenant, admired for his manners and looks. Envy from Iago leads to Cassio's career being sabotaged due to a manipulated incident.

**Emilia**  
Iago's wife, who serves as Desdemona's attendant and confidante. She unwittingly aids Iago's plot against Cassio but later advocates for Desdemona's innocence.

**Bianca**  
A woman in Cyprus who loves Cassio, one of her clients. She is used by Iago as a scapegoat within his schemes.

**Lodovico**  
A Venetian and relative of Brabantio and Desdemona, who arrives in Cyprus to deliver orders from Venice. He witnesses key events that reveal Iago’s plot.

**Gratiano**  
Another Venetian and relative of Brabantio and Desdemona, who accompanies Lodovico to Cyprus and plays a role in the unfolding of events.

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