Exploring the Protagonist of Othello: Othello or Iago?

The play 'Othello' by William Shakespeare is rich with complex characters, but the question of who the true protagonist is has sparked debate among scholars and readers. Some argue that Othello is the protagonist who drives the story, while others propose that Iago, the antagonist, is the true central figure. This article delves into the nuances of Shakespearean drama and explores the roles of Othello and Iago to find an answer.

The Role of Othello

W Orthello is a Christian Moor and the general of the Venetian armies. He is a figure of both respect and intrigue, being eloquent and physically powerful, traits that earn him the admiration of those around him. Despite his elevated status, Othello is plagued by insecurities related to his age, his life as a soldier, and his race. These internal conflicts, along with the external manipulation by the antagonist Iago, drive much of the plot forward.

Defining the Protagonist

The concept of 'protagonist' from a narrative perspective is fluid and can be understood in different ways. If the protagonist is defined as the person whose actions drive the story, then Iago can be seen as the driving force. His manipulative plots and the way they unfold suggest that he is indeed the central character. If, however, the protagonist is the central figure in whose story the play is told, then it is Othello.

Desdemona: A Supporting Character

While Desdemona plays a crucial role in the play as she faces opposition to her marriage to Othello and remains steadfastly loyal to him, she can be considered a supporting character rather than a true protagonist. Her role is significant, especially in highlighting the external conflicts and moral dilemmas faced by Othello and Iago, but her actions do not drive the overall narrative.

Othello as the Protagonist

Despite Iago’s provocative actions, Othello remains the central character of the play. Othello’s struggles with insecurity, love, and jealousy provide the heart of the narrative. The play explores his fall from grace and the tragic consequences of his actions. Unlike Iago, Othello undergoes a profound internal conflict and transformation, making him a more traditional protagonist.

The Nature of Iago

Iago is not just an antagonist; he is the ultimate villain whose actions are destructive and detrimental. Unlike Richard III who seeks and achieves kingship, Iago has no desire for greatness. He is driven by an unrelenting need for destruction, which is not a creative force but rather a destructive one. This makes it difficult to view him as the central character of a tragedy. A true tragic hero faces a conflict and deals with it, something Iago lacks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Iago plays a pivotal role in driving the plot of 'Othello,' the true protagonist is Othello. His internal struggles, external challenges, and ultimate fall from grace make him the central figure of the play. Whether seen as the person whose actions drive the story or the central character whose narrative is told, Othello remains the protagonist, embodying the themes of love, jealousy, and betrayal that Shakespeare intended to explore.