Othello vs. Aristotle's Tragic Hero

Othello vs. Aristotle's Tragic Hero

How much does the class really know about Othello? Keep track of the traqgic elements in the play...

published on May 15, 2012
1/12

Define Aristotle's Theory of Tragedy...

katharsis
“Tragedy...is an imitation of an action that is serious, complete, and of a certain magnitude... "
Plot is essential to the play, no matter the characters. There must be a climax in between the introduction and the conclusion.
2/12

What are the 6 principles of his theory?

Plot, characters, diction, thought, spectacle, melody
Melody, song, people, denouement, consequences and conclusion.
Characters, plot, speech, consequences, appeal, ending.
3/12

What are the 5 elements of plot?

incentive
complication
cause
result
conclusion
introduction
incentive
motive
climax
katharsis
ending
Incentive Moment
Climax
Complication
Resolution
Dénouement
4/12

What is the main theme in Othello's plot?

deception & class
deception & jealousy
jealousy & love
5/12

What is the incentive moment?

when Iago states his disdain for Ohello's promotion of Cassio
when Othello marries Desdemona
when Iago construes the rumours of Desdemona's infidelity
6/12

What is the climax?

when Desdemona marries Othello against Brabantio's wishes
when Othello sees Cassio with the handkerchief he gave to Desdemona
when Othello makes Iago lieutenant, vowing to have Cassio and Desdemona both killed
7/12

What is the resolution?

Roderigo's death
when Othello kills Desdemona for her infidelity, and the truth is later revealed
Iago being brought to justice
8/12

What is the complication/action?

Desdemona's handkerchief being stolen by Iago
when Cassio is stabbed in the leg by Iago
when the audience becomes aware of Iago's true actions and intentions
9/12

What is the denouement?

Desdemona's handkerchief being stolen
when Iago convinces Roderigo to fight and kill Cassio, thus ensuing the later deaths of Roderigo, Othello, Desdemona and Emilia.
Othello finding out about Iago's deception and true motives
10/12

Which character is necessary or probable to the play? (meaning they are logically constructed to fit the plot)

Othello
Roderigo
Iago
11/12

Waht is the third principle of Tragedy?

diction
future
thought
12/12

What is the ultimate tragedy of the entire play?

Iago manipulating everyone
Othello mistrusting his wife to believe Iago
Several characters dying