A tightly constructed drama which is regarded as one of the William Shakespeare’s finest; “Othello” is the story of its titular character, a Moorish general in the Venetian army. Othello secretly marries Desdemona, the daughter of Venetian senator Brabantio, who disapproves of the union. The marriage draws the contempt of Roderigo, a wealthy gentleman of low moral character who is in love with Desdemona and has asked her father for her hand in marriage. Iago is an ensign under the command of Othello who is angry for being passed over for promotion. Iago plots against Othello by convincing him that his wife is having an adulterous affair with Cassio, whom he has been passed over by for promotion. As the web of deceit is woven a series of tragic events begins to unfold for all those involved. Based upon a 16th century short story entitled “A Moorish Captain” by Italian novelist and poet Cinthio, “Othello,” masterfully dramatizes the tragic consequences that can arise from jealous deceit. This edition is annotated by Henry N. Hudson, includes an introduction by Charles Harold Herford, and a biographical afterword.
