Character of Cassio in Shakespeares Othello :: GCSE English Literature Coursework

The Character of Cassio in Othello Cassio is a an expert in strategic procedures and Othello is a Moor general in charge of the Venetian army. Cassio works by Othello's side as the army's lieutenant. Cassio though very useful in the army's duties was a simple-minded man, unconscious of his surroundings and his actions. He told Iago, "I have very poor and unhappy brains for drinking. I could well wish courtesy would invent some other custom of entertainment." Yet, shortly after this statement Cassio finds himself in a state in which he is so drunk he ends up fighting with a Cyprus official. Their naive ways lead them through a storm, it swept away Othello as Iago stood and watched. Othello was an honored and trusted general. His character reflected the honor and respect that was given to him. In scene one Barbantio and Othello confront each other about the couple's love and marriage. Even as her own father's trust grew distant Othello stood faithful as he told Barbantio, "My life upon her faith!" Even though Othello trusted his wife he began to suspect her faithfulness, as Othello's confidant Iago poisoned his mind with thoughts of infidelity. Othello's character reminds me of Edmond Dantes. There seems to be a similarity in the sense that, Edmond's mind was pure and innocent, he didn't even suspect his own companions of betraying him. Edmond's mind continued free of cruel intentions until his mind's capacity began to expand and he soon learned who his real enemies were. Edmond's character changed. His entire life was altered with the help of his mentor. Othello didn't have the assistance of a teacher but he had the assistance of Iago. Trust was the key to their downfalls. Othello trusted without protection. When he trusted someone he depended fully on that individual and committed his life to the faithfulness of that person. He wore no armor against the dishonesty of the cruel and knew how to fight only in the physical realm. "I know Iago thy honesty and love doth mince this matter..."When the revelation came upon Edmond's life he sought out revenge. In the same manner Othello's heart and mind was purely focused on his wi fe, Desdemona. When the poison in his mind began to settle, Othello's trust for Desdemona grew distant and his innocence began to fade. "For I know thou art' full of love and honesty and weigh'st thy words before thou gives't them breath.