'Love which appears too perfect often ends in tragedy'. In light of this statement, examine how Shakespeare presents the love between Othello and Desdemona in the play.

Shakespeare's, 'Othello' follows a defiant love story which ends in tragedy as the eponymous protagonist succumbs to the, 'green eyed monster' in place of his trust in Desdemona. In a time of romanticised Renaissance literature, 'Othello' does not adhere to the ideal that love trascends all other barriers. However, is Shakespeare's presentation of this failure emphasising the destructive nature of Othello and Desdemona's devotion for one another? Or is this a product of Iago's manipulation of the hero's insecurity and awareness of upholding his reputation?

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Answered by Ellen T. English Literature tutor

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“Othello does not kill Desdemona in jealousy, but in a conviction forced upon him by the almost superhuman art of Iago.” - Samuel Coleridge. In the light of this view, discuss the extent to which Othello is responsible for Desdemona's death.


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