In the play Othello by William Shakespeare, Othello is not a monster, but a tragic hero. This is a noble person of importance with a flaw in their character that leads to their downfall. Othello's flaws include racial insecurity, an over trusting nature and sexual jealousy caused by Iago. However he is a hero, proving himself a valiant general and devoted husband with many noble qualities. These are shown in Act I sc iii when he explains his love for Desdemona and Act II sc I upon reuniting with Desdemona. The killings of himself and his wife are out of honour and he redeems himself in the end, as shown in the final scene.
Throughout the play, Othello is respected by the Duke and senators of Venice as a worthy general. The audience's initial impression of Othello is positive and is expressed through the other characters. For example, a senator remarks here comes Brabantio and the valiant Moor' (I, iii, 47) upon his entrance. The Duke himself also goes on to describe Othello as valiant Othello'. (I, iii, 48) As a military man, Othello exhibits great dignity and self-control as he refuses to retreat before Brabantio. Furthermore, he treats Brabantio with respect and patience despite being accused as a thief' (I, ii, 62) who has stolen Desdemona. Shakespeare presents the noble qualities in Othello at the start of the play to emphasize the fact that he is noble and a tragic hero, not a monster.
Shakespeare also presents a different aspect of Othello at the start of the play. This is his romantic character, which can be seen through his devotion and emotional commitment to Desdemona. The dialogue between Desdemona and Othello after the storm is expressive of their mutual joy and commitment to each other. In his speech, Othello uses blank verse and speaks with elegant lyricism that contrasts with Iago's coarseness in prose. He compares the storm as being hell' and their reunion as heaven' (II, in87).
