Journal 10

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 moment of insight is displayed in his final speech. He takes the time to speak to the people in the room right before he kills himself. He realizes that he was manipulated by Iago and instead of making excuses for his actions he asks that the others remember the good that he did as well. He is aware that his actions during the last few days of his life make him look bad but he doesn’t want the good to be forgotten either. Othello knows that he was wrong in killing Desdemona and doesn’t try to avoid that. In owning up to his actions, he shows insight and remorse even though he doesn’t stick around to live out the consequences. His final speech lets the audience see his true character and the pain and troubles that Iago’s mind games had caused to him.