Othello The Moor of Venice

Othello The Moor of Venice is a tragedy written by William Shakespeare believed to have been written in 1603 or 1604. The play is set in Venice and Cyprus and tells the story of the Moorish general Othello who marries Desdemona a Venetian noblewoman. At the start of the play Othello has just appointed Cassio as his lieutenant much to the dismay of his ensign Iago who had hoped to be given the promotion. Iago becomes jealous and resentful of Cassio and hatches a plan to destroy him and Othello. Iago manipulates Othello into believing that Desdemona is having an affair with Cassio. Othello becomes consumed with jealousy and believes Iagos lies. He eventually murders Desdemona and then realizes too late that he was deceived by Iago. The play ends with Othello taking his own life and Iago being taken away to be punished for his crimes. Othello is a play that deals with themes such as jealousy betrayal and racism. It is known for its powerful and complex characters as well as its exploration of the human psyche. The play has been adapted into various works of literature film and other media and is often studied and performed today.