Shakespeare's Moor is the title character of the play OTHELLO, written by William Shakespeare. OTHELLO is a tragedy about a Moorish general in the Venetian army who is manipulated by his ensign, Iago, into believing that his wife Desdemona is unfaithful. OTHELLO is ultimately driven to murder Desdemona and then kills himself in despair. The play is a powerful exploration of themes such as jealousy, racism, and betrayal.