The Theme of Jealousy in ‘Othello’
Below, you’ll find some thoughts and comments on one of the key themes and ideas in the play. These are intended as a starting point - you should also read essays on the topic, do your research and develop your own more personal and detailed beliefs about each theme before attempting to write essays! Every essay or exam answer that you write should include your thoughts and feelings on the question, so the notes and questions below are designed to help you develop a personal response to each theme. Once you feel comfortable with the key ideas and debates on a theme, you should compile a list of relevant quotations and practise analysing those, too.
If you’re looking for more help with the text, click the ‘Learn More’ button for the complete breakdown of the themes throughout the play!
JEALOUSY
Othello is, somewhat famously, linked to the theme of jealousy. The reference to jealousy being a “green eyed monster / which doth mock the meat it feeds on” (Act 3, Scene 3) is particularly pertinent, as Iago states that his intentions are to incite Othello into a jealous rage.
Jealousy holds great importance in the play because it is an emotion which is the driving force behind much of the tragic action in the narrative; many critics also claim that jealousy acts as Othello’s hamartia.
Many believe it is this all-consuming jealousy that affects Othello alone, with Iago cleverly making use of this to push Othello over the edge of madness.
On the other hand, it is arguable that jealousy has an even larger influence, affecting multiple characters. For example, Roderigo is jealous of Othello for being with Desdemona, driving him to attempt to kill Cassio and Iago is even jealous of Cassio for taking, what he believes, was a position he deserved, driving him to take the actions he takes throughout the play.
Overall, many feel Shakespeare wishes to show the dangers inherent in jealousy, hence its ‘monstrous’ presentation throughout the piece.
TASK: Consider the following statements, write a paragraph for each discussing your thoughts on them. Remember to make use of relevant quotes to back up your thoughts.
To what extent can you see Othello’s actions as being driven by jealousy? Is it the only driving force behind his fall?
Consider whether there are any other characters who also, even in some small way, are affected by jealousy. List these characters, and compare and contrast their expression of jealousy with Othello’s own.
Thanks for reading!
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