Othello Case

"Othello portrays a world that has the same conviction of our own: that stupidity is more destructive than evil."

Evaluate Shakespeare's presentation of ignorance in light of this comment.

Shakespeare's 'Othello', set in Italy in the early 1600's, is a play that displays the effects of jealousy and the power of ambition. It is important to confirm that there is strong correlation between the downfall of characters and their ignorance in situations that require not only intelligence but social awareness.

Firstly, despite being "noble, strong, generous and trusting" Othello becomes "a victim of Iago's devilish intellectual superiority" according to critic F.R Leavis. After being passed for promotion by Othello, Machiavellian character Iago begins to plot his revenge, and knowing that Othello is gullible and easily influenced, his plan seems almost flawless. Iago begins to subtly suggest that Othello's wife Desdemona is having an affair with Cassio: "I will in Cassio's lodgings lose this napkin/And let him find it", this line illustrates Iago's cunning nature, as he integrates the handkerchief to become an integral part of his plan, and despite Othello wanting "ocular proof" of their affair, Iago's constant suggestions becomes enough for him to believe the web of lies Iago creates. Furthermore, Othello's ignorance in this situation is a perfect example of harmatia - it is his character flaw which consequently leads to his downfall. A.C Bradley comments that "Othello puts entire confidence in the honesty of Iago...but it shows no sign stupidity in Othello", therefore it is not lack of intelligence which leads to the denouement of the play, but his ignorant attitude toward the situation.

Furthermore, despite Emilia being portrayed as the hero at the end of the play, it is apparent that she was the only force that could have stopped Iago's plan, but is totally ignorant of it. Critic Eileen Newman calls Iago "a consummate actor, [who is] so skilful that his own wife is unaware of the extent of his villainy", thus drawing attention to Iago's cunning nature. But, the fact that Emilia does not question why her husband had "a hundred times wooed me to steal it" highlights her ignorance in the situation, because as Desdemona's handmaid, she knew the sentimental value of 'the napkin'. The verb 'wooed' has romantic, positive connotations, contrasting 'steal' which presents Iago as a thief, perfectly presenting his manipulative nature. Emilia does however immediately regret taking it, stating that Desdemona will "run mad when she shall lack it", which therefore poses the question as to why she takes it in the first place, is it a case of 'stupidity'? Of