Our first character profiles

We think that Iago is a manipulative character who is a back-stabber. The reason we think this is because he is deceitful to those around him; he betrays his master, he tells lies, he sets up Brabantio and Roderigo (although we think Roderigo doesn't really care - he just wants Desdemona), he toys with Brabantio's emotions by putting words into his mouth, and playing on his affection for his daughter (and his conscience) for example "your heart is burst, you've lost half your soul" (Act I Sc I line 84). He is insulting towards Othello by using innuendo and crude language; "your daughter and the moor are making the beast with two backs". (Act I Sc I lines 113-114)

Roderigo is easily manipulated and gullible; he is quick to believe Iago and the rumours he is spreading. His naivity leads eventually to Othello's downfall. He is jealous of Othello and his relationship with Des. This leads to Roderigo aiding Iago readily; providing him with the money, the resources and the vehicle for his plan.

Brabantio gets more and more wound up by Roderigo. He is foolish and naiive and is an easily led individual. He is willing to be spoon-fed information without forming his own opinion and questioning what he's been told. This makes him come across as a very ignorant and easily manipulated persona, which makes the other characters think they can walk all over him and make him believe whatever they want. He's also in denial about O and D.

Welcome

Hello and welcome to our blog.

We are a group of secondary students (and teacher) who have just begun to study Othello. In the midst of the madness of working our way through the presentation of characters in Act 1 Scene 1, some genius who will remain nameless, mentioned the idea of the blog, and their brilliant, innovative and creative teacher suggested we start one. Properly. So here we are!

Over the next couple of months, we are hoping to add our own individual and group reflections, comments, ideas and thoughts on the play, and hope that others will add their comments. You never know, it may just work?!

OK, so this is the teacher, just setting the scene, but I'm going to leave it up to the rest of the group to take over now, so just watch this space!

From Miss T