Othello Act 1 Character Analysis

Act I of Shakespeare's Othello introduces the audience to the tragedy's characters, along with their personalities. A character that stood out was Othello. Othello falls in love with Brabantio's Desdemona, and is held responsible for her disappearance and unjust actions, in her father's eyes at least. Othello makes himself seem important, specifically when he discusses his family's past : "Which, when I know that boasting is an honor,/ I shall promulgate. I fetch my life and being/ From men of royal siege, and my demerits/ May speak unbonneted to as proud a fortune/ As this that I have reached" (I.ii.23-27). Here, Othello states that he does not like to brag, but he comes from a royal family, and that he is noble. Othello shows the conceded side of his personality here. Later in the scene, he says, "My parts, my title, and my perfect soul/ Shall manifest me rightly" (I.ii.36-37). At this specific part, Othello blatantly states that his perfection, and status will protect him from any harm.