The Moor's propensity of jealousy is credible in his disintegration from the amiable and extremely noble character, to the ferociously stupid and barbaric Othello experienced in the latter of the play. If it wasn't for this tragic flaw, he would not have been so easily led `by the nose like an ass' to feed upon Iago's deceits. However, it is also the absolute cunning and villainous actions of his ensign Iago that is plausible in the undoing of the general. It is also in the conduct of other characters that Iago is able to succeed.

Othello's heroic qualities and high status in Venetian society is indisputable in the beginning of the play. He is noble, ardent, rich, and powerful as a general. He is in control. This is best indicated Act I when Othello stubbornly declares `Put up your swords for the dew will rust them!'

However...