Reputation in Othello

Based on what we have read so far, discuss the importance/significance of reputation in relation to the following characters:
DesdemonaCassioIago
Aim for the development of solid, analytical paragraphs. Ensure that your main points are substantiated by relevant, pertinent evidence and that you take the time to synthesise the evidence.

The significance of reputation in relation to Desdemona is that it is what she defies but it is what defines her character. When Desdemona secretly marries Othello, the moor, she deceives her father as well as the social expectations which are imposed on her. Her father, Brabantio has a reputation as a respected senator, and as his young daughter, Desdemona had been expected to carry the same reputation. By betraying her father, she is stripped of this reputation and is almost disowned. Also, Desdemona’s reputation as a cultured young girl is self-destroyed as falling in love with the moor was viewed as socially unacceptable and impossible unless he had used charms on her. When she declares her love for the moor, she is stripped of her original reputation of an innocent and trustworthy young girl. However, although Desdemona disposes this reputation, every action taken after by her is judged and perceived based on her reputation. For example, through the previous experience, Desdemona gains a characteristic trait of a liar, and this reputation encircles her whole character as other characters judge her based on this reputation.

Cassio has a distinctive and high reputation which he is very fond of. As a ‘florentine’, he is seen as a cultured, educated and therefore, a respected figure. The significance of reputation in relation to Cassio is that it is what his character is based upon. After damaging his reputation, Cassio is devastated and claims, “I have lost the immortal part of myself and what is left is bestial.” Thus his character is wrapped by reputation and its high importance in his life determines it as his biggest strength and weakness.

Iago’s reputation in the play differs significantly to what is read by the reader. If to discuss only the reputation that is envisaged with him by other characters in the play, the significance of it is that Iago heavily relies on it. All of Iago’s plans throughout the play, depend on the other characters to trust him through his honest reputation. Constantly, other characters refer to him as ‘Honest Iago’ and he uses this false reputation to his advantage. The reader is aware that it is false as Shakespeare invites readers to glimpse at the truth behind the Iago’s plotting.