Othello: Abridged and Illustrated

By William Shakespeare

Oscillating between jealousy and revenge, 'Othello' is a tale of a Moorish captain who becomes a victim of his own illusory thoughts provoked by a backstabber. Shakespeare' s writing inspires young minds to contemplate concepts represented by the comic

• Language: English
• Publisher: Wonder House Books
• Release date: Nov 5, 2020
• ISBN: 9789390093939

William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare (1564–1616) is arguably the most famous playwright to ever live. Born in England, he attended grammar school but did not study at a university. In the 1590s, Shakespeare worked as partner and performer at the London-based acting company, the King’s Men. His earliest plays were Henry VI and Richard III, both based on the historical figures. During his career, Shakespeare produced nearly 40 plays that reached multiple countries and cultures. Some of his most notable titles include Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet and Julius Caesar. His acclaimed catalog earned him the title of the world’s greatest dramatist.

Book preview

"

O, beware, my lord, of jealousy;

It is the green-eyed monster which doth mock

The meat it feeds on; that cuckold lives in bliss

Who, certain of his fate, loves not his wronger

"

― Iago, A

ct

III, S

cene

3

Othello, a moor, was the model of bravery and determination in Venice. He was proof that one’s race does not determine one’s abilities. He had escaped many obstacles courageously, be it the wrath of the wilderness or the torture of the enslavers. After escaping slavery, Othello joined the army of Venice. He won endless battles that earned him consecutive promotions in the military. Finally, he became the General of Venice.

The entire city was celebrating Othello’s victory, except Roderigo and Iago, who were burning with envy. Iago had been a right-hand man for Othello in many battles and had been expecting a promotion. Instead, the inexperienced Michael Cassio was given the position of lieutenant. Roderigo, on the other hand, was unable to accept the news of Othello’s secret marriage to the most beautiful woman in Venice, Desdemona. It had thrust a dagger straight into his heart.

Roderigo spit out in anger, Iago, I would love to be his executioner!

Iago exclaimed, Well, there is nothing one can do about it. This is the drawback of military service; you have to serve those who are unfair to you. Now I have to be his ensign and see Cassio enjoying the position of lieutenant. I don’t know how to be loyal to the moor anymore!

Iago glanced at Roderigo. What if I pretend to be faithful to him while looking for an opportunity to get what I want? I am not following him out of love or duty! It is simply to get what I want. But I can’t reveal my true feelings just yet.

Iago convinced the naïve Roderigo to tell Brabantio about his daughter’s secret marriage.

They reached his house and Roderigo called out, Oh Brabantio, come out, Signor Brabantio. Beware of thieves! That moor, he stole your daughter!

Brabantio leaned out of his window. What is this noise? Why are you creating a racket?

Your innocent daughter has married that moor! Behind your back! You can check for yourself. The black man has been successful in wooing your daughter. She’s gone! But Brabantio refused to believe them and ordered them to leave the premises at once.

They’re officiating the marriage right now while you stand here talking to us, I tell you! said Iago.

After some persuasion and argument, Brabantio got suspicious and wore his robe to take a walk around the palace. He searched for Desdemona but couldn’t find her anywhere. Distressed, he called for his attendants.

Come with me. We will check every house in the city until we find her.

As soon as Brabantio left to gather all his attendants, Iago said, "Roderigo, now I must bid you adieu. I