How does Othello want to be remembered? This question has intrigued audiences and scholars alike since the play’s first performance in the 17th century. Shakespeare’s tragic hero, Othello, is a complex character whose desires and ambitions shape his legacy. This article explores the various ways in which Othello aspires to be remembered, delving into his motivations, actions, and ultimate fate.
In the opening scenes of the play, Othello expresses his desire for recognition and fame. He is a man of noble birth and a distinguished soldier, yet he feels overshadowed by his more famous contemporaries. “I have a mind to marry,” he declares, “but wherefore? I am not yet three and thirty. Yet I will wed. I think it best to live and die a bachelor” (I.iii.253-255). This statement reveals Othello’s longing for a legacy that surpasses his military achievements, suggesting that he seeks to be remembered as a great lover and husband.
As the story progresses, Othello’s aspirations become more tangible. He marries Desdemona, a woman of noble birth and great beauty, and they appear to be a perfect match. Othello is deeply in love and believes that he has found the ideal partner. “She is the fairest woman alive,” he boasts, “and I am the proudest man alive” (III.iii.321-322). This statement highlights Othello’s desire to be remembered as a great lover, someone who has captured the heart of the most beautiful woman in the world.
However, Othello’s pursuit of a lasting legacy is marred by his jealousy and paranoia. His insecurities lead him to suspect Desdemona of infidelity, driven by the lies of his ensign, Iago. As Othello’s suspicion grows, so does his determination to prove his suspicions and avenge himself on his wife. “By heaven, I’ll be revenged on her that had the grace to kill me!” he declares (IV.ii.258). This quote underscores Othello’s desire for revenge and the lengths he is willing to go to in order to protect his honor.
Ultimately, Othello’s quest for a lasting legacy leads to his tragic demise. After killing Desdemona, he realizes the magnitude of his mistake and seeks redemption. “I have done a damned thing,” he cries, “I am a villain” (V.ii.335). This poignant moment reveals Othello’s regret and his realization that his actions have tarnished his reputation forever.
In conclusion, Othello’s desire to be remembered is a complex and multifaceted one. He yearns for recognition as a great lover and husband, but his jealousy and paranoia ultimately lead to his downfall. While Othello may have aspired to be remembered for his bravery and loyalty, his tragic end leaves us questioning whether he will ever achieve the legacy he so desperately sought. The play serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of jealousy and the pursuit of a false sense of honor, leaving us to ponder how Othello truly wants to be remembered.
