Othello

In class we have been discussing the idea of reputation and if it is truly representative of one's self as some characters in Othello believe. I think reputation can be thought of in many different ways, and I believe there is a strong connection between reputation and placement, or rather loss of reputation and displacement. Many of the characters in Othello pride themselves, and almost define themselves on reputation. Reputation is something they spend their lives earning. It is an accomplishment and a definition of success, that is if it is a positive reputation.

In Othello their are many different elements which define reputation. As we discussed in class, we could compile a nearly page long list of things such as class, religion, and complexion. But, when one of these elements becomes tainted or lost, the character, like many people, may feel that their very selves have been tainted and loss. It is this that connects reputation to displacement. When reputation suffers a character may begin to feel out of place. Displacement often occures when one feels they do not belong, this could be because of class, religion, or complexion, among many other things.

Although displacement usually has a negative connotation, I believe it is possible to argue that Othello has been positively displaced. Being a moore, Othello has been categorized. He has been thought of as fitting a certain mold, having a certain place. When he marries Desdemona, he breaks this mold and takes himself out of his so-called "place". He enters a 'higher realm' in which those belonging in it, i.e. Brabantio, are shocked at his new place. Othello has been displaced from the norm and from a comfort zone. Though, not his comfort zone, the comfort zone of those around him, for many people seem to be uncomfortable by this new marriage.