Study Hub

Study Guides

This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.

Back to Study HubBrowse Year 9 English Guides

Year 9 - English

Exploration of the theme of jealousy in 'Othello'

'Othello'

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils explore Shakespeare's 'Othello'. They start by learning about Aristotelian tragedy and how Shakespeare adapted it. They read long extracts from across the play, and consider the presentation of Othello, Iago and Desdemona. Finally, they look at key themes, such as jealousy.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to identify a variety of evidence to explore the theme of jealousy in 'Othello' and how it contributes to Othello's downfall.

Key Notes

  • Shakespeare argues that jealousy doesn't occur in isolation but is a product of the flaws of society.
  • Male dominance and pride permeates most of the jealousy in the play.
  • You could argue that Othello's downfall is not caused by jealousy alone.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • cuckolded: When a man's wife has been unfaithful, he has been 'cuckolded'.
  • chaste: To be chaste can mean not having any sexual desire or intentions.
  • catalyses: To catalyse means to cause something to happen.
  • contest: To contest means to debate or oppose.
  • emasculation: The process of making a man feel less male by taking away his power and confidence.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Only Othello feels jealousy in the play.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain this English learning goal in two key points.

Shakespeare argues that jealousy doesn't occur in isolation but is a product of the flaws of society. Male dominance and pride permeates most of the jealousy in the play.

2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'cuckolded'

When a man's wife has been unfaithful, he has been 'cuckolded'.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: Only Othello feels jealousy in the play. Correction: Many other characters feel jealousy and it is a driving force for lots of the action in the play.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 9 English guide library.