In your essay, be sure to:

• Develop a clear, arguable thesis that explains how jealousy serves as a means of destruction in the play.
• Analyze at least two key scenes or passages where Iago intentionally fuels Othello's jealousy (e.g., Act 3, Scene 3; Act 4, Scene 1).
• Examine how Othello's shift from a composed, authoritative general to a man engulfed by murderous rage illustrates the broader theme of appearance versus reality.
• Consider how at least one other character (e.g., Roderigo, Bianca, or Emilia) also grapples with or embodies jealousy, and what this reveals about its universality throughout the play.
• Conclude with a reflection on what Shakespeare ultimately conveys about the nature of jealousy and human susceptibility to manipulation.

Length

4–6 paragraphs (or as directed by your teacher)

Format

Standard literary essay with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion

Bolster your argument with specific textual evidence (direct quotes or close paraphrase), and reflect on the broader thematic implications: What insights does Shakespeare offer about the connection between jealousy and self-destruction within human nature?

• Imagery (e.g., Iago's reference to the "green-eyed monster," animal imagery)
• Dramatic irony (e.g., the contrast between the audience's knowledge of Iago's deceit and Othello's lack of awareness)
• Character foil (e.g., the contrasting moralities of Othello and Iago)
• Soliloquy / aside (e.g., Iago's disclosures of his scheming intentions)

Scoring Focus

Strength of claim, quality of textual evidence, depth of literary analysis, and coherence of argument.