journql 10

Name:

Journal #10

Othello’s Insight

Write a one paragraph response to the following question:

Often at the end of a play, Shakespeare’s tragic heroes often have a moment of insight. What is Othello’s insight? Look closely at Othello’s last speech before answering this question.

Othello’s last speeches are dignified, but they lack purpose and he does not seem to have a full understanding of all that has happened. He uses the first speech to condemn himself and his horrible deed; this is more than likely a reaction of anyone who has come to the realization that they have wrongfully killed a loved one. To his credit Othello blames himself and does seem to feel genuine remorse. His final speech, however, is directed to the men who remain about how to deal with what has happened. The setting for Othello's final moments onstage is critical to how it is perceived by Othello, the other players onstage and the audience. It adds to Othello's misguided self-perception. The day is slowly breaking as the first beams of light are filtering through the blinds on Othello's bedroom windows. Othello has moved out of the darkness he was sitting in when he began his first speech, and while standing in light, speaks of how he has been enlightened of what occurred.