Othello 3

"I will incontinently drown myself." pg. 1380

Throughout the first few acts of Othello, four major themes have surfaced. The first is jealousy is a powerful, often destructive force. Roderigo is insanely jealous of Othello and Desdemona's relationship with one another. Roderigo is in love with Desdemona and considers suicide because he cannot handle his jealous feelings. The next theme is hatred is often based on preconceived notions. This was exhibited when Brabantio expressed his hate for Othello. The only reason Brabantio claimed hatred was because Othello married his only daughter. Brabantio based his hatred on a preconceived notion rather than considering who Othello was as a person. The third theme of this play is appearance and reality are not always the same. This is displayed through Iago's character. Most people consider Iago to be a very noble and honest man; however, the readers know that he is a very manipulative man with an agenda. The last theme is showing love can often require courage. This is expressed through Othello. When professing his love for Desdemona, he had to be very courageous. He was standing before her father and discussing how he loved her. This takes a plethora of valor to do, but his love for Desdemona is worth it.