Exploring Othello as a tragic hero

I can explore the ways in which Othello is a tragic hero.

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From Oak National Academy under the Open Government Licence. Some files include third-party material; see the credits at the foot of the page.

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What you'll learn

  • Othello may be considered a tragic hero as he recognises the root of his downfall.
  • Othello's hamartia might be his jealousy or his naive trust of Iago.
  • Othello’s hubris may be shown when he won’t consider Desdemona’s viewpoint or when he views himself as a godly figure.
  • Othello's demise is also triggered by his stubbornness.

Common mix-up

“Othello's jealousy is the only thing that causes him to be considered a tragic hero.”

Othello also has hubris, stubbornness and anagnorisis that can add to his status as tragic hero.

Keywords

See all the words in the word bank

tragic Hero
a central character that experiences a tragic downfall
hamartia
a tragic hero’s fatal fault or mistake that leads to their catastrophic end
hubris
excessive pride or self-confidence
anagnorisis
a moment of insight where the tragic hero understands their fate

Try the first question

What is *not* a characteristic of a typical tragedy?

  • a tragic hero who experiences a downfall
  • catharsis for the audience
  • a marriage

Year 9 · English · Key Stage 3 · Lesson 16 of 25

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A English lesson by Oak National Academy licensed under Open Government Licence (OGL). Open Government Licence v3.0. quizo.school is not associated with or endorsed by Oak National Academy.