The hoodwinking of Othello

While reading Othello I have begun wondering about the structures of a comedy versus and tragedy. William Shakespeare’s “Othello” functions in a very different manner in comparison to the other plays we have read and the ways the plot develops. As discussed in class, Comedy and Tragedy are characterized in two very different ways. Essentially you have the sadness of the tragedy and happiness and laughter of a comedy. These two plays plot lines are developed in very opposite ways. This question of the function of comedies and tragedies led me to reflect upon previous readings. Throughout each of Shakespeare’s plays there are definite characters who participate in perpetuating the plot. These characters are developed within both comedies and tragedies, helping in the continuation and end of the play.

Within comedies such as “Much Ado About Nothing” and “Twelfth Night” there is an understanding that whatever happens will be resolved in a funny and enjoyable way. Within these plays are characters like Sir Andrew and Sir Toby; two equally riotous components to the cast who develop much of the comedy and the hilarity of events ensuing in the plot. Andrew and Toby’s drunken escapades, tricks and slander in combination with Feste and Maria play to the audience’s pleasures and laughter. Similarly, Leonato, Don Pedro and Claudio’s join in with fooling Benedict. This develops the comedy and joyfulness of the plays plot and eventual outcome. These sporadic events are crucial in creating a comedy, creating a lighthearted feeling about the events taking place. These characters are those who develop the plot and there participation in the plot is crucial in both the comedic sense and the functionality of the overall play.

In each of these comedies the characters perpetuate the elements of comedy and allow the audience to experience happiness. Within a tragedy lies a similar character, which creates the chaos and negativity pushing for a tragic and sad event. Iago is just this character in “Othello.” His scheming and awful trickery are pushing Othello further and further away from Desdemona and the truth. Iago creates the tragedy within this particular play; developing the negativity and conflict between characters, by lying and deceiving everyone. Where as Sir Andrew, Sir Toby, Dogberry and other characters develop the comedy; Iago confuses and deceives and eventually creates the tragedy of “Othello”. Iago’s part in this play enables Othello to be misled and hoodwinked into believing Desdemona is unfaithful. Iago’s convincing stories and remarks about different characters develops a sense of chaos as opposed to comedy. This play allows the audience to explore a darker side of humanity via Iago’s swindling lies.