Page 2: The Tragic Climax and Resolution
As Othello's jealousy intensifies, Iago provides false "proof" of Desdemona's infidelity. He tells Othello of Cassio's supposed dreams about Desdemona and claims to have seen Othello's handkerchief in Cassio's possession. Despite Emilia and Desdemona's denials, Othello becomes convinced of the affair.
Quote: "Despite Emilia's and Desdemona's refusal of the rumors, Othello is convinced of the affair."
Iago's manipulation reaches new heights as he tricks Othello into believing Cassio is talking about Desdemona when he's actually discussing his girlfriend. This misunderstanding leads Othello to make a pact with Iago to kill both Desdemona and Cassio.
Highlight: Othello's descent into jealousy is so severe that he begins to experience epileptic fits, showcasing the devastating psychological impact of Iago's machinations.
The tragedy unfolds as Roderigo, under Iago's instructions, attacks Cassio. In the ensuing chaos, Iago manages to wound Cassio without being identified and kills Roderigo to silence him. Meanwhile, Othello, consumed by jealousy, smothers Desdemona with a pillow, ignoring her pleas of innocence.
Definition: Tragic hero - A character who makes a judgment error that inevitably leads to their own destruction. Othello exemplifies this concept through his fatal flaw of jealousy.
The truth is finally revealed when Emilia admits to stealing the handkerchief at Iago's request. Iago, exposed, kills his wife before fleeing. The play reaches its tragic conclusion as Othello, realizing his terrible mistake, takes his own life.
Example: The theme of jealousy and its consequences in Othello is powerfully illustrated in the final scenes, where it leads to the deaths of Desdemona, Emilia, and Othello himself.
The play ends with Cassio being appointed as the new Governor of Cyprus, while Iago is taken to be tortured for his crimes. This resolution underscores the devastating impact of jealousy and manipulation on even the noblest of characters.
