Merchant of Moor: A Tragic Tale by Shakespeare
Merchant of Moor is a tragic story by Shakespeare, and it is thought to have been printed in 1603. The tragedy emphasizes on Othello who is the central character and plays as a military general in the Venetian war and his traitorous acquaintance Lago. Focusing on act 1 scene III, Shakespeare emphases on the idea that human beings are repeatedly doomed by their blunders. Manifestly, in the tragedy, mistrustfulness and uncertainty are the central subjects which bring about disappointment to the protagonist. Othello's feelings of Insignificance as a black man regardless of his authority and Desdemona's affection are intensified and misused by Lago. Act 3 scene III of the play delivers the pivotal point where the central character deserts all intentions and is influenced by Lago's absolute but deceitful devotion in his disclosure of Desdemona's unproven unfaithfulness (Freeman Donald 80). Lago is Shakespeare's greatest villain in the play for he controls the entire plot through his diabolical schemes.
Figurative Language and Manipulation
Throughout the scene, Shakespeare uses phrases which have figurative meaning instead of literal meaning. For example, in the act, Lago exercises influence over Othello through allusions by enquiring "Who is that". He also asks Cassio if he discerned what was going on amid Othello and Desdemona and through uttering "I dare be sworn, I think that he is honest" Lago raises suspicions in the thoughts of Othello who is surprised why Lago utters no more deliberating to Lago if was deliberating about something extra. Also, Lago tells Othello "as thou does ruminate and give thy worst of thoughts the worst of words" (William 150-151). The utterances by Lago are an evident an influence of certainty then he betrays Othello by proposing that he might be silent since he is always green-eyed and does not want people to realize. Othello's fears increase in this scene because Lago develops a false motive and concern.
The Use of Emotive Language and Irony
When Lago tells Othello "Patience I say; you mind perhaps may change", Othello is quite affected by his utterances to an extent he poses no reason. Further, Shakespeare personifies Othello's rage "My bloody thoughts with violent pace shall never look back" to emphasize on Othello's loss of logical thoughts because they are driven by passionate jealousy. Further, Lagos loyalty is highlighted through the theatre guidelines where he kneels beside his commandant in the union. Though Lago cautions about "the green-eyed monster which doth mock the meat it feeds on" he speaks of precisely what he is about to do to Othello. William expertly makes use of the words to emphasize on the satire and the prodigious detachment amid words and actions. Lago who is the anti-hero takes on a political starring role by continually using emotive language to appear compassionate and aid his trickery as Shakespeare exposes Othello's irony in character.
The Handkerchief: Symbolism and Plot Progression
Lago uses a single "Handkerchief" to set Othello on an emotional course of vengeance. The handkerchief is the metaphor of the instability of Othello's trust in himself and his matrimony. In the excerpt, the audience can readily realize the transformation from an innocent, honorable man to a resentful, vengeful killer. Completely doubtful of his wife's infidelity, Othello declares "one is too poor, too weak for my revenge". In his malice minded thoughts, Othello now shares Lagos malevolent spirit as his "bosom" is metaphorically full of "Aspic snake". He resembles the Lago in his speech through chanting "blood blood blood" broken sentences and Lagos Violent sexual animal imagery. Besides, William Shakespeare uses Lago to progress the plot. When Lago declares "I am your own forever" he deceivingly presents himself as the faithful assistant.
The Temptation Scene: Jealousy and Revenge
Act 3 scene iii is often mentioned as "the temptation scene", and it is the most significant act in the tragedy and a well-known part in the drama. Within the act, Lago engages in a lengthy conversation with Othello and plants the seeds of jealousy and doubt which cause the tragic events in the play. Ironically, it is Desdemona's effort to reconcile with Casio which give Lago an opportunity to wreak revenge upon Othello, therefore, causing the killing and irresponsibility which bring about a terrible ending (Serpieri "Alessandro 185). Further, the act ironically reveals the loveliest scene in the entire play which is the garden of the Cyprian castle.
Conclusion
Faintness and susceptibility are portrayed by Othello in the scene while Desdemona and Cassino are subjected to Lagos conspiracy. Lago unveils Othello's vulnerabilities and openly takes full advantage of them. The idea of emotions versus action is revealed by Othello's irrational state because he lets envy overcome him so much to an extent he murders his wife. The scene turns tragic because Othello is not only led astray by Lago but also by his threats on himself. He trusts Lago, and he is no longer in a position to make his own decisions. Othello lets his suspicions and doubts to overcome his belief in love and is trapped by the false security Lago baits him into. The change of an ostensibly honorable man causes a significant dramatic turning point.
Works Cited
Freeman, Donald C. "Othello and the ‘Ocular Proof’." The Shakespearean International Yearbook. Routledge, 2017. 74-89.
Serpieri, Alessandro. "Othello and Venice: Discrimination and Projection." Visions of Venice in Shakespeare (2016): 185.
Shakespeare, William. Othello. Cambridge University Press, 2018.
