Sample Essays and Plans Sample Essay Plan 1
Q. ‘Iago’s complex personality comprises disturbing features which horrify and repel audiences, but he is still the most fascinating character in the play.’
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement/view? Develop your answer with reference to the play Othello.
Intro: Address the two main elements of the question (‘features which horrify and repel’ and ‘most fascinating character’); adopt a viewpoint (agree or partially agree); outline approach by giving a very brief overview of Iago’s malicious character and his dominant presence in the tragic story.
Paragraph 1: Initial impression of Iago’s hate-filled character is negative. A larger-than-life figure, he controls Roderigo and is cruel to Brabantio. The fact that he has been passed over for promotion may gain him some sympathy. His desire for vengeance against the Moor foreshadows tragic events to come.
Paragraph 2: Dramatic impact of Iago’s powerful soliloquies; audience is involved in his obsessive revenge. His ingenious plan (‘It is engender’d’) to ruin the happiness of Othello and Desdemona is shocking. The fixated tone and imagery reveal Iago’s deeply disturbed personality.
Paragraph 3: The vengeful ensign’s multi-layered character is illustrated in his compelling ability to read the characters of others and to take advantage of their weaknesses; he flatters Roderigo and Othello, is witty and playful with Desdemona, targets Cassio’s weakness for alcohol and bullies Emilia. Only the audience knows the real Iago.
Paragraph 4: Act 3 Scene 3 marks a turning point in Iago’s control of Othello. The subtle cat-and- mouse power game is absorbing. Iago’s sadistic delight in the suffering of Othello is alarming. He is innovative and imaginative in manipulating the man he hates, leaving us asking how Othello can be so trusting and naive.
Paragraph 5: As the suspense increases, Iago’s plans become more involved and he takes further risks; the audience wonders if the truth will emerge. His misogynistic attitude to women is increasingly disturbing – particularly his treatment of Emilia.
Paragraph 6: His final act of defiance (‘From this time forth I never will speak word’) highlights his
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inscrutable nature and enduring enigmatic presence. Associated with devilish demonic language at the end.
Conclusion: Iago is central to the play’s horrifying outcome. His complex character is filled with contradictions. By turns hypocritical, conniving, sociopathic and thoroughly evil, on occasion he is intelligent, inventive, charismatic and insecure. From start to finish, he intrigues the audience.
Class/Homework Exercise
Using one of the Sample Plan paragraph outlines above as a starting point, write a developed paragraph in response to the essay question. Support the points you make with reference to the play. (Aim for 150 words.)
Othello
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