The Theme Of Jealousy In Othello

An evergreen trigger of emotion that slowly takes over one as they become skeptical their significant other is significant to someone else besides themselves, in other words, jealousy. People are known to feel jealous when they suspect that their treasured bond with someone or a desire is threatened by a third party that was definitely not invited. In the play, Othello by William Shakespeare, the theme of jealousy is consistent throughout the text and portrayed by many such as the protagonist, Othello. Essentially, the theme, jealousy is like poison which has the ability to corrupt people’s intentions, is depicted in the manner in which the characters react to being encompassed with envy.
As the villain of the play, Iago schemes for revenge …show more content…
He begins to suspect that his wife might be having affairs with Cassio as Iago had warned him could be a possibility. Soon after, he begins to have breakdowns, wishing he would’ve never fell in love in the first place. As Othello becomes enthralled and overwhelmed with the feeling of jealousy, he begins to question Desdemona’s piety. Doubtful that Desdemona would do such thing Othello claims, “ For she had eyes, and chose me. No, Iago;/ I'll see before I doubt; when I doubt, prove;/ And on the proof, there is no more but this:/ Away at once with love or jealousy. (3.3.207-223). Othello seems to not have expected to hear this immoral behavior being practiced by his highly talked about wife. It’s also suggested that even though he’s sure that Desdemona wouldn’t have these disgraceful intentions, he expresses that if he is presented some sort of proof, he would be likely to believe Desdemona’s so-called infidelity. He lets it be known if it is proven true that Desdemona is being unfaithful, then he will do away with his jealousy and love for her. While Iago continues to feed Othello lies about the relationship Desdemona and Cassio have, Desdemona and her beloved husband start to fall apart due to the tension that envy brings to the table. In a discussion where Desdemona seems to demonstrate her pity for Cassio, Othello strikes Desdemona in anger exclaiming, “ O, devil, devil!/ If that the earth could teem with woman's tears,/ Each drop she falls would prove a crocodile./Out of my sight!” (4.1. 273-276). The poison that is jealousy, intoxicates Othello causing him to do and say things he wouldn’t have done otherwise. As a result of him being convinced that his wife has been disloyal to him, Othello acts out in arbitrary manners out of anger and disappointment. This conveys how easily fooled and hypnotized by jealousy Othello can become and the means in which he allows it to take