Shakespeare's Techniques (Absent)

Shakespeare uses several literary devices throughout Othello. The most obvious is probably foreshadowing. The entire plot is based around Iago's attempt to destroy Othello's career and marriage, and he often talks about it, which adds tension to the plot. Shakespeare also uses the handkerchief as a symbol for trust. When Othello drops the handkerchief that he gave Desdemona, it shows he is already beginning to mistrust her. Then when he asks for it back and doesn't receive it, he immediately loses all trust in her. Finally, Shakespeare uses rhythm in the verses to contrast different characters and different feelings in the play. Some monologues he writes in iambic pentameter, to create an eloquent flow, such as Othello's. Other conversations are written in normal prose, especially conversations between Iago and Roderigo, showing that they're less noble people. By the end, Othello talks the same way.