“I Must Be Circumstanced:” Bianca’s Effect on Othello

Abstract

This study examines the inclusion of Bianca in William Shakespeare’s The Tragedy of Othello, Moor of Venice. What purpose did the character serve, if any? How does the play benefit from her creation? Previous scholarly criticism, along with a close textual analysis of both the play and its source material, provide a deeper understanding of the character. The investigation concludes that Bianca helps decipher the actions of the play by creating a triptych of marriages, provides a better picture of the main character by serving as his foil, and elevates the interpretation of the drama as tragedy by providing catharsis for the audience.