Othello is Shakespeare's tragedy of a great love torn apart by jealousy and betrayal. As an African prince who has defied racism to rise to the rank of General in a European army, the esteem in which Othello is held as a soldier is second only to his love of the beautiful and virtuous Desdemona. However, "honest" Iago spins a web of lies that threaten to break the bonds of unity between lovers. Disharmony spreads as Iago's malicious deeds force Othello to doubt the honourable Desdemona, with tragic consequences.