How Is Honor Justified In Othello's Reputation

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Othello questions the egocentric, narcissistic honor that is shown by the men in the play. For the sake of this paper, “honor” will be used as a synonym for reputation. Honor is not necessarily a bad thing, but it should not be a justification for misconduct. In history, a lot of actions were justified if they were committed to defend one’s honor. A man is justified in murdering his wife’s lover in order to protect his honor (Klene 140). Thousands of people died in duels to defend honor. In 5.2.299-300, Othello used his honor as an excuse for murdering Desdemona. Iago, in 1.1.7-17 and 2.1.291-295, gives reasons for his hate, so his honor could be maintained. He feels slighted that he was not promoted, and he suspects that Othello is sleeping with Emilia, despite there being no evidence for it. …show more content…

Five individuals are shown losing their honor, and three of them die with it. The marriage of Desdemona and Othello destroyed Brabantio’s honor, and later in the play it is revealed that he died because of it (5.2.211). The secret marriage showed that he was not capable of keeping his daughter obedient to him. Cassio lost honor because Iago tempted him to drink, and his resolve was not strong enough. He gave into temptation, and attacked Roderigo and the story was not relayed to Othello properly. For the sake of Venice’s honor, Othello had to demote

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