Othello #5

            In Act 4, Scene 1 of Othello by William Shakespeare, the audience experiences a negative shift in Othello’s character. Desdemona’s confusion for the change in “sweet Othello” is only heightened when Othello hits Desdemona and calls her “Devil!” (IV.i.267-268). In the previous acts, Othello would not dare lay a hand on Desdemona. Lodovico also notices a negative change in Othello and proclaims, “My lord, this would not be believed in Venice” (IV.i.270). When Othello was in Venice, Othello was composed, rational, and perfect in his speech. Since Othello has moved to Cyprus, Othello no longer keeps his emotions in check. Othello is easily manipulated by Iago into believing that Desdemona is cheating; however, Desdemona is completely faithful to Othello. The change in location mirrors the change in Othello. The marring of Othello’s seemingly perfect nature shows the audience the complete control Iago appears to have over all of the characters in the play. Othello and Desdemona’s marriage used to have no problems, but Iago was able to take down Othello’s composure and marriage simply by igniting jealousy within Othello. Through Othello’s seemingly impossible change in character, the audience is able to determine that Iago controls the fate of each of the characters.