close
test_template

Othello's Soliloquies: a Window into The Tragic Downfall

download print

About this sample

About this sample

close

Words: 438 |

Page: 1|

3 min read

Published: Mar 8, 2024

Words: 438|Page: 1|3 min read

Published: Mar 8, 2024

Table of contents

  1. The First Soliloquy
  2. The Second Soliloquy
  3. The Final Soliloquy

The soliloquies in Shakespearean drama are powerful tools that allow the audience to understand more about the innermost thoughts and feelings of the characters. In the tragedy of Othello, the main character's soliloquies offer deep insights into his inner conflict, which ultimately leads to his downfall. In this essay, I will analyze the soliloquies in Othello to demonstrate how they contribute to the overall themes of the play.

The First Soliloquy

The first soliloquy comes at the end of Act 1 Scene 3, shortly after Othello has just married Desdemona. In this speech, Othello reveals both his love for Desdemona and the beginnings of his mistrust of her. He says, "But that I love the gentle Desdemona, / I would not my unhoused free condition / Put into circumscription and confine / For the sea's worth" (1.3.260-263). Othello is saying that he loves Desdemona above all else, and that he would not give up his freedom for anything except her. However, this line also foreshadows the idea that Othello will eventually feel confined and trapped by his marriage to Desdemona.

The Second Soliloquy

The second soliloquy that is particularly important comes at the end of Act 3 Scene 3, when Iago has just finished manipulating Othello into believing that Desdemona has been unfaithful. In this speech, Othello is struggling with the idea that the woman he loves has been unfaithful. He famously says, "O, that the slave had forty thousand lives! / One is too poor, too weak for my revenge…" (3.3.453-454). Othello is so consumed by rage that he wishes he could kill Cassio (whom he believes Desdemona is sleeping with) forty thousand times over. This idea of excessive rage and disproportionate revenge sets the stage for Othello's eventual downfall.

The Final Soliloquy

Finally, the last soliloquy comes just before Othello kills Desdemona. In this speech, he reveals that he has finally come to understand the depth of Iago's manipulations. He says, "I look down towards his feet - but that's a fable. / If that thou be'st a devil, I cannot kill thee" (5.2.287-288). Othello has finally realized that his trust in Iago was misplaced, and that all of his previous actions were based on lies. This realization comes too late, however, and he goes on to kill Desdemona in a fit of rage.

Get a custom paper now from our expert writers.

Overall, the soliloquies in Othello offer a clear look into the protagonist's mind, and reveal the motivations behind his actions. Through these speeches, we see that Othello is a passionate and deeply emotional man who is also susceptible to manipulation and jealousy. These qualities ultimately lead to his downfall, making Othello a powerful and tragic figure in Shakespearean drama.

Image of Dr. Charlotte Jacobson
This essay was reviewed by
Dr. Charlotte Jacobson

Cite this Essay

Othello’s Soliloquies: A Window into the Tragic Downfall. (2024, March 07). GradesFixer. Retrieved December 8, 2024, from https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/othellos-soliloquies-a-window-into-the-tragic-downfall/
“Othello’s Soliloquies: A Window into the Tragic Downfall.” GradesFixer, 07 Mar. 2024, gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/othellos-soliloquies-a-window-into-the-tragic-downfall/
Othello’s Soliloquies: A Window into the Tragic Downfall. [online]. Available at: <https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/othellos-soliloquies-a-window-into-the-tragic-downfall/> [Accessed 8 Dec. 2024].
Othello’s Soliloquies: A Window into the Tragic Downfall [Internet]. GradesFixer. 2024 Mar 07 [cited 2024 Dec 8]. Available from: https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/othellos-soliloquies-a-window-into-the-tragic-downfall/
copy
Keep in mind: This sample was shared by another student.
  • 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
  • Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours
Write my essay

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

close

Where do you want us to send this sample?

    By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

    close

    Be careful. This essay is not unique

    This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

    Download this Sample

    Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

    close

    Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

    close

    Thanks!

    Please check your inbox.

    We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

    clock-banner-side

    Get Your
    Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

    exit-popup-close
    We can help you get a better grade and deliver your task on time!
    • Instructions Followed To The Letter
    • Deadlines Met At Every Stage
    • Unique And Plagiarism Free
    Order your paper now