Theme in Othello - Homework

Reputation and honour and both major themes throughout Othello. This theme is first encountered in Act 1, scene 3 when the Duke addresses him as “valiant Othello”. Then it is clear to the audience that Othello has political power and is regarded as brave in the military. Before this address by the Duke, Othello is only referred to as ‘the Moor’ or described with rather vulgar language. The use of imagery is present when characters describe Othello. An example is when Iago calls Othello an ‘old black ram’ and Desdemona a ‘white ewe’. The juxtaposition of black and white is meant to make the audience see how people associated Moors with the colour black which also symbolized all things evil. In Act 2, Iago gets Cassio drunk in order to damage his reputation. After humiliating himself, Cassio realizes how his actions have impacted his career and reputation as Othello’s lieutenant. When he is stripped of his rank, he indicates the importance of reputation by repeating to himself “reputation, reputation, reputation.” (2.3.257) We then see that reputation is more valuable to Cassio than anything in the world. Iago also has a reputation, but he has a reputation for being loyal and honest. He has the power to manipulate people and lie to them but make it seem truthful.