Importance of Act One in Othello by William Shakespeare

Importance of Act One in Othello by William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare's Othello is a tragic play consisting of five acts. Although each act is not of equal importance, each serves a distinct role that affects the quality of the play in its entirety. Removing any act would therefore greatly diminish the final product of this play; consequently, reducing the play's appeal to the audience. Since Act I satisfies several essential purposes, removing it would be a mistake. Ultimately, we would no longer be seeing Othello the way Shakespeare had intended us to.

First of all, Act I serves as an introduction. As a result of Act I, we get a feel for the setting, the characters, and prior events that are required to thoroughly appreciate this play. Without receiving this vast amount of information, unfortunately the rest of the play does not have the same impact. For example, it is in Act I that we learn of Othello's ethnic as well as military background. Although the Moor finds himself the target of racial comments, the impression we get of him, throughout Act I, is one of simplicity combined with dignity and honesty. In Scene I, we are also informed of Othello and Desdemona's recent marriage. The situation regarding Othello's choice of lieutenant is another important event described in the first scene of Act I. Iago had attempted to bribe his way into this position, but Othello chose Cassio, a Florentine, whose knowledge of war was great despite his lack of experience. All of these events occurred prior to the start of the play, but are involved in the development of the play; therefore, they are recalled for our purposes in Act I. Removing the first act of Othello would consequently prevent us from realizing that these e...

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...arding Desdemona, is similarly important. Brabantio words, "Look to her, Moor, if thou hast eyes to see; She has deceived her father and may thee" ,carry no truth but are used by Iago as ammunition to deceive Othello. Act I initiates Othello in a way that the play can progress smoothly to it's tragic ending.

In conclusion, the removal of Act I, of Othello would significantly alter the audience's response to the play. The play would not be as effective if the audience was not aware of the information presented in Act I. In order to classify Othello as a tragedy act I must be included, or the downfall of the main characters may not be as noticeable. In addition, the minor events of Act I are crucial to initiate the play, and set it into action. Essentially, removing Act I from this tragic play would diminish the play's appeal; which would be a tragedy in it's self.