Explication of Two Speeches and a Response to Statement from Othello (Essay Sample)

Instructions:

Number of sources No sources required
This assignment has three components: the explication of two speeches from Othello and a response to a
critical statement regarding Othello. Please number each component accordingly.
1-2. Choose two speeches from Othello that you found particularly significant or interesting. Write a
detailed explication for each speech that 1) establishes a thesis statement explaining the broader
significance of the speech within the play as a whole; and 2) supports that thesis by addressing
each of the following questions:
a. Who is giving the speech? To whom is the speech addressed?
b. What is the dramatic situation in which the speech is uttered (i.e. what is happening at the
time of the speech)?
c. How does the speech advance/influence the plot (i.e. how does it work to resolve or
complicate the dramatic conflict)?
d. What does the speech reveal about the character's desires/motivations?
e. Are there any especially effective (or poetic) expressions? How do they change/influence
your understanding of the character who is giving the speech? How do they illustrate the
prevailing emotion of the scene? Address the language of the speech directly.
f. Provide any additional analysis that might illustrate the broader significance of the scene
within the play.
Each explication should be 350-500 words. Make sure to indicate the Act, Scene, and line numbers
for the speeches that you have selected. For example, the notation, IV.iii.5-18, would indicate the
speech is in Act IV, Scene 3, lines 5-18. As an extra measure, please provide me with the page
number from the textbook, as well. Use specific textual evidence (including direct quotations) to
support your claims. (25 points each)
3. Consult the statements made by Harold Bloom, Leslie Dunton-Downer, and Alan Riding on the
attached sheet. Select one of the statements, and work to develop a thesis statement regarding why
you are either in agreement or disagreement with the claim. Work to support your assertion with
specific evidence from the text (including direct quotations), along with your own focused and
thorough analysis. Your response should be 500-750 words. (50 points)

source..

Content:

SHAKESPEARE OTHELLO
Student
Date Introduction
Shakespeare is termed as one of the greatest literature and poet in pre-Britain. Shakespeare has written some of the greatest work in history including the main focus of this analysis called Shakespeare Othello. Othello presents various characters that portray unique characteristics like Lago, Desdemona and Othello. Some of the character traits exhibited in the essay includes betrayal, anger and superiority. Based on relevant literature, this essay will analyze two scenes, elaborating them further in terms of characters, behavior traits and expectations. This essay will begin with Act 1, Scene 1; lines 57-65 followed by Act 3, scene 3, line 269-279.
Part A
Explication 1 (I.i.57–65)
Act (1)
Scene (1)
Line Numbers (57-65)
Pg Number (57-65)
The speech introduces Lago explaining his tactics to Roderigo. Lago, in the scene, has several characteristics that are clearly evident. Lago is said to follow Othello not out of love, but due to him being opportunistic. Lago apparently feels certain of the fact that he can manipulate Othello and dupe him. The motive behind the apparent cunningness by Lago is due to him suspecting him of sleeping with his wife. The belief sees Lago almost becoming obsessed with vengeance. He is feeling guilty and he patiently waits for the day when he will fully express what he feels on the inside. He quotes that he will wear his heart upon his sleeve. Sadly however, it is impossible to wear his heart on his sleeve hence Lago seems convinced that the day to avenge himself may never come.
The speech also introduces other characteristics that Lago possess. As such, he is seen as being cryptic & elliptical in his manner of speaking. Even though he publicly does not admit it, Lago is constantly playing a game of deception regardless of deceiving Roderigo or the audience. Lago, however, discloses his dark personality with quotes like “I am not what I am.” A wise soul will listen to Lago speaking and his blatant choice of words will ultimately be his destruction. The speech creates an image of Lago as a titan master of words and lies to whichever innocent ear is present to listen. On the other hand, the power of Lago to continuously hold speeches throughout the play displays his authoritative & powerful figurehead within the play. He also uses small sentences as an emblem to his abusive choice of words. For instance, the phrase “Think, my lord” shows his disrespect and discomfort in the play. Lago also uses gestures to ultimately command Othello, Roderigo as a practice of the authority he holds throughout the play.
Explication 2 (III.iii.267–279)
Act (3)
Scene (3)
Line Numbers (267-279)
Pg Number (267-279)

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Explication of Two Speeches and a Response to Statement from Othello (Essay Sample)

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