Love is strong as death; jealousy is cruel as the grave...

An initial assumption may be that because Othello kills his beloved wife after the devious machinations of Iago, then perhaps Othello is as much a victim of Iago's evil as Desdemona is of Othello's wrath. Some may argue that the sin of Iago - to plot the downfall of the Moor - is worse because it blossoms in a diabolical, calculating mind, as opposed to the sin of Othello which is committed because he has become a mere pawn in Iago's hands, blinded by hurt, ruined by his own naiveness. However, it can be shown that Othello allows himself to be manipulated. Iago's suggestion of the infidelity of Desdemona provides just the excuse Othello needs to justify the destruction of the wife he believes cannot truly love him. The argument can be made that Desdemona's murder is a result of Othello's pride and rush to judgment and, as a result, he must be held accountable.

"The first sign of love is the last of
wisdom"

Othello, unlike the base Iago, is capable of forming strong, loving relationships -- his genuine friendship with Iago confirms this fact. Othello allows himself to be influenced by Iago, and allows Iago to bring out his most evil characteristics. Although Iago may be the more innately evil of the two, Othello does little to prevent his base instincts from becoming dominant.

"That's the greatest torture souls feel in hell: In hell, they
must live and cannot die"

To see why Othello commits his crime and why he has to be held accountable for it, we must examine his motive. It can be claimed that what actually causes Othello to commit murder is not him being mentally weakened and manipulated by Iago, but rather his own pride and lack of confidence which he allows to gain control. Othello is a strong leader, self-assured in his ability to handle military matters, but he is insecure with his personal qualities. He is in a new city with different customs. He has a new bride - a young and beautiful girl - whom he loves but does not know well.

Here's something that I wrote; I think it reflects the relationship between Othello and Desdemona. Hope you like it.

"I love the way you smile,

I love the way you touch me,

I love the way you talk,

I love the way you think,

But I hate that I am as dark as this rose,

And that I can't love you..."

From yours truly
私は日本の
~Deathgod Captain~
人を愛する
死の神 ~ Seema~ の大尉