Othello - Question 5

Othello presents largely the theme of seeking revenge. The entire plot is centered around Iago's plans to get revenge first on Cassio then Othello. In addition, Iago's plans cause other characters to seek revenge as well. After witnessing Iago converse with Cassio, he believes it has been confirmed that Cassio has slept with Desdemona. As a result, Othello plans different ways to kill Desdemona to get his revenge by either hanging her (IV.i.174), chopping her up (IV.i.184), or by poisoning her (IV.i.188). This revenge increases the pleasure of the theatrical experience for the audience. Revenge heightens suspicion as to how far the characters will go. The lesson seems rather didactic due to the fact that all characters had negative consequences for their actions, suggesting that Othello was intended not only to give a pleasurable theatrical experience, but also to teach a lesson that seeking revenge has dire consequences.