Yes, yes, and more. There is more complexity in this play than an investigation of fault will satisfy. People are entangled emotional creatures, without sure foundations, and so easily toppled by all kinds of insecurities and jealousies.
Political, social, and economic status have always been tempting measurements of personal worth and meaning---sources of strength and security. But, these false foundations will ultimately fail and everyone caught in the wake suffers.
I would agree that Iago had a powerful influence, as the story is really framed and driven by his frenzied mind. But I found a much greater power demonstrated by Desdemona and Emilia. Although Emilia is a little bawdy and Desdemona a little naive, when the moment of crisis presents, they show loyalty, integrity, love, and self-sacrifice, and somehow that lingers in my mind long after the tale of Iago's deceit and Othello's fits of jealousy.
I agree that because of his success people see him as a trustworthy person. He is able to betray them in such great ease because it is assumed that a man of his status is not one to tell lies. I found it interesting how in Act three Othello begs Iago to tell him what he is thinking. Othello sees Iago to be a great man and relies on his knowledge of the situation rather than trying to find the facts for himself.
Since Iago seems to have the power influence in this story, it causes me to wonder who really is at fault.
Is it Iago for telling lies or would it be Othello for foolishly falling for them?
Iago is of a higher status so does that make what he did alright just because he was of higher class?
Does Othello’s class signify the fact that he became so blind?
What do you think?
No comments:
Post a Comment