Rated: Mvs 15+. This material can be viewed only by students under 15 years of age once a permission slip from parent/guardian for viewing this material has been obtained. Othello is a tragedy by William Shakespeare, believed to have been written in approximately 1603. The work revolves around four central characters: Othello, a Moorish general in the Venetian army; his wife Desdemona; his lieutenant, Cassio; and his trusted ensign Iago. Because of its varied themes - racism, love, jealousy, and betrayal - Othello remains relevant to the present day and is often performed in professional and community theatres alike. The play has also been the basis for numerous operatic, film, and literary adaptations. Stars Kenneth Brannagh.