Constructing an argument about Othello as a tragic hero

English

In 'Othello', pupils learn about the conventions of a tragic hero, which allows them to judge whether the protagonist is more a victim of his own hamartia or rather of external pressures and a racist society. In 'Macbeth: A Tragic  Hero', pupils evaluate whether Macbeth's downfall is caused by his own hubris or whether Lady Macbeth and wider society can be blamed. 

In 'The Language of Protest', pupils take inspiration from protest poetry and speeches, to write an opinion article. In 'Othello', pupils use their argumentative writing skills to compose letters in defense of Othello and to write speeches campaigning for racial equality. 

'Othello'

Historic or outdated representations of people that may portray inequality or injustice.

Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

Subjects which particular individuals may be sensitive to, eg, adoption, migration, bereavement or death, divorce.

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

focus of the question / contextualisation of the scene

Focus of the question / contextualisation of the scene.

Starting with the first, put the parts of an introduction in chronological order. 

What is the role of a topic sentence in a paragraph?

What is **not** part of the criteria for a topic sentence?

Shakespeare introduces Iago as malcontent in the first scene of the play.

Shakespeare uses diabolical imagery to characterise Iago.

Which topic sentence is the most effective? 

topic sentences can be placed in any order

topic sentences should track the progression of the character/theme

the topic sentence with the most evidence should go first

How should you structure topic sentences to maintain an argument? 

In 'Othello', what does Othello have that makes him appear a tragic hero?

When he defends himself against Brabantio's accusations.

When he refuses to listen to Desdemona's narrative about her fidelity.

When do we witness Othello's hubris in the play 'Othello'?

finishes an essay, summarising the main ideas

analyses interesting examples of language

What role does an introduction play in an essay?

general sentence about the text as a whole

What would you **not** expect to see in an introduction?

Begin with the idea you have the most quotes for.

Begin writing about the most interesting language device.

You need evidence from a range of acts and scenes throughout the play.

You only need evidence from the first and last scene.

Statement that introduces a main idea in each body paragraph.

Statement that introduces an argument in the introduction.

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

Depiction or discussion of serious crime

Adult supervision required

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Constructing an argument about Othello as a tragic hero

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.