MeAgaisntIB - IOC English Commentary

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• published: 06 Nov 2011
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IOC Scored 27/30 - Read below for this example. This extract, within act 3 scene 3, is a true reflection of the themes jealousy, manipulation, magic in the play "Othello." The dialogue between Othello and Iago largely contributes to the development of the plot, as well as highlights Shakespeare's two main character, allowing the audience to develop an opinion about them. Shakespeare uses language, imagery, literary devices and characterization to illustrate the significance of the scene, and draws attention to major themes. Iago's conniving character plants seeds of jealousy in Othello, through manipulation. Iago is therefore able to trigger "The green-eyed monster" within Othello, by exploiting Othello's vulnerability and insecurities. It's his insecurities that results in Othello demise. Shakespeare uses imagery to illustrate the them jealousy to the audience. Iago establishes the state of jealousy in Othello's mind by suggesting it already exists. Iago warns Othello of "The green-eyed monster," that is jealousy. Shakespeare personifies jealousy within this metaphor, forming the imagery of a monstrous and diabolical entity, one that is crazed with jealousy, depicted in a grotesque and demonic manner. In the Shakespearian era colors where often paired with emotions, or personal qualities. The color green symbolizes both jealous and envy, suggesting that Othello is also not only jealous, but envious of the other characters race and upbringing. The verb "feed" is used to personify the jealous that manifests and eats away at the "meat" of whom is posses. This monster comes to represent Othello's dark feelings within him which overrides any sense of reason and rationality, which perpetuates and causes his downfall. Irony is also utilized in Iago's speech to portray the control that Iago have over Othello, through power of manipulation. Iago cleverly uses deception to subtly insinuate hidden meanings, all the while acting loyal and sincere, to absolve Iago of any responsibility. Ironically, Iago's speech points out to Othello his flaws, Othello has no idea of the significance of Iago's statements, and so neglects them. The dramatic irony placed in the end of Iago's warning, reintroduces the theme magic, to be used against Othello, who was believe to possess magic in the beginning scenes. Iago seems to be enchanting or casting a spell over Othello. "Who dotes, yet doubts, suspects, yet strongly loves!" This phrase was written in iambic pentameter, the rhythm achieves when said out-loud by Iago, holds a magical power by emphasizing the words, "dotes,""doubts,""suspects,""loves." The irony here is that, Othello was perceived to hold magical power in his words, but now Iago is using Othello's "magic" against him. Iago premeditates Othello's actions by casting a spell upon Othello, ultimately outlining and foreshadowing his future. Repetition of "Proof" is a key in this extract. Othello claims that he won't be destroyed by jealous. He reason that Desdemona "had eyes and chose" him, despite his race. However, Othello indicates that he is a bit more jealous and suspicious of Desdemona than he lets on. Othello insists upon "proof" before doubting her. The audience can see that at this point that Othello begin to doubt his wife by trying to reassure himself of her innocent and warm nature, "my wife is fair, feeds well, loves company," he says. "where virtue is here and more virtuous," Othello feels the need to, firstly, dissolve his insecurities, secondly, defend his wife as he still loves her, but thirdly, to uphold his reputation, in the chance that these accusations were to be true. The dialogue within this extract mark the turning point of the plot, and begins to reveal Othello's character and Iago's power over Othello. It also portrays Othello in a weak and pathetic light, and Iago as a clever and powerful character. This causes the audience to begin to change their initial views and judgements towards these characters. Instead of empathizing Othello, the audience turns to root for Iago. Shakespeare use of irony highly influences how they view characters in the play as the audience knows more than the characters themselves. Audiences can further develop their own opinions and as an effect feel more involved and active in the play. Ultimately, this scene effectively depicts the main themes and characters of "Othello." [More to come]