What is there in Othello's general circumstances and in his character that makes it possible for Iago to dupe him?
             Othello's general circumstances and character make it possible for Iago to deceive him. The fact that he is a Moor, that he has been a military man since young age , and that he is a general in a culture and society different than his own, are all circumstances that act against him. On top of that, aspects of his character such as his gullibility and jealousy make it easier for Iago to dupe him.
             From the very beginning of the play, the character Othello is defined first and foremost by his racial background. When first introduced, he is not given a name but instead referred to as "his Moorship" (1.1.34) and "the thick-lips" (1.1.68). This constant emphasis on race marginalizes him from the Venetian society and makes it easier for Iago to conspire against him. For instance, the means used by Iago to incite Brabantio's rage against Othello are racist: "an old black ram Is tupping your white ewe" (1.1.90-91).
             Othello is referred to as neither a fellow military man nor a fellow Venetian citizen, but is instead regarded as the 'unknown other' which is to be feared. These fears become evident when Brabantio accuses Othello of crimes supposedly stereotypical of his race, those of "witchcraft" (1.3. 66). It is not really witchcraft that Othello is accused of, but of being different, inferior and of another belief system, one of "Bondslaves and pagans" (1.2. 101). Othello responds to these attempts of marginalization by emphasizing the common ground between himself and Brabantio: "Her father loved me, oft invited me, Still questioned me the story
             The racial side of Othello works as a difference in cultural and social understanding between Othello and other Venetians, which makes Othello insecure about his position in society, leaving hi...