Truth be O-tell-o-ed

The Baritone Hiding in the Shadows

            Operas generally focus on the title role character or a romantic relationship. There is a consistent voice part that always seems to get overlooked in these storylines: the baritone. It’s not like there isn’t a role written for a baritone, it is generally the role of the best friend to the tenor. In Otello, Iago (the baritone) is labeled as Otello’s closest companion, and is always on stage when dramatic events occur to intensify the plot. In this case, it is because of Iago’s scheming that the drama increases.

            Men are typically greedy for power and will stop at nothing in getting the power they think they are entitled to. Iago’s motivations are no different as he slowly destroys Otello’s marriage, leading him to suicide. Iago’s plot begins in getting another tenor, Cassio, to believe that his love Desdemona is tiring of her husband, Otello. It is quickly releaved that Iago hates Cassio and is not losing any sleep in screwing him over in the process of messing with Otello. Cassio is simply a tool in Iago’s scheme in driving Otello mad with jealousy of his wife. Desdemona loves Otello, and Otello loves Desdemona as well. Without the interference of Iago, these two would have a long and happy marriage. When Desdemona attempts to convince Otello of giving Cassio his promotion back, it is the perfect fuel for Otello’s temper. Iago pushes the limit by creating rumors that sound of Desdemona’s infidelity and Otello proclaims he will kill his wife as punishment.

            That night, Otello approaches Desdemona and strangles her. Others come into the room, including Iago, once the deed is done. Too many voices and realizations flood Otello’s conscious and wants to kill himself. Others restrain him and they leave the room when he gives up his sword. Only when Iago, Desdemona and himself are in the room, Otello reveals another hidden knife. He then stabs himself, Iago leaves the room, and Otello dies next to his wife. The baritone wins.

            I suppose it’s important to mention that Otello holds military power and that is what Iago is sought after. It’s just hard to grasp the level of truth of humans this opera reveals. Some people will stop at nothing to gain the power and glory they feel they deserve. Otello trusted Iago. Desdemona claimed justice and she was punished for it. Cassio was used only as a tool in an evil scheme, that makes four people that were collateral damage in Iago’s quest for more power. It’s the hard lessons like these that need to be told in creative ways in order for people to see the mistakes in everyday life. The performing arts make our reality seem like a place we don’t want to associate with. But every story still needs to be told.