Othello
William Shakespeare
A noble Moorish general in the Venetian army is manipulated by his envious ensign Iago into believing his wife Desdemona has been unfaithful. Driven by the green-eyed monster of jealousy Othello murders his innocent bride before discovering the truth. The play is a domestic tragedy that explores themes of race manipulation and the fragility of trust. It features one of literature's most sophisticated and chilling villains in the character of Iago.
Othello: A courageous general whose insecurities are exploited to turn his love into murderous rage. Desdemona: A virtuous and loyal wife whose innocence makes her tragic end particularly heart-wrenching. Iago: A master manipulator who destroys Othello purely out of envy and a love for chaos.
First Performance: 1604, at Whitehall Palace
Highly successful; noted for its claustrophobic tension and the psychological depth of its antagonist.
Original Actors: Richard Burbage