Othello Act V

Othello: "No way but this,/ Killing myself, to die upon a kiss." (Falls on the bed, and dies)
Cassio: "This did I fear, but thought he had no weapon,/ For he was great of heart." V.ii.357-359

This play is without question a tragedy. Like many Shakespeare tragedies, multiple characters die at the end of Othello. Desdemona, Roderigo, Emilia, and Othello all meet their demise at the hands of violence; the loss was all caused by a web of lies spun by Iago over his jealousy and quest for power. The full effect of the themes about uncontrolled passions leading to destruction is realized at the conclusion when these characters fall victim to those destructive emotions. Knowing that this play is a tragedy can help the audience understand the drama involved. All of Iago's planning and the conflict between the characters would heighten the suspense and drama if the audience knew that the play would not end well, and the experience would be enhanced. Details of betrayal and loss are spread throughout the play and lead up to the conclusion, so knowing the play's classification allows the audience to catch those telling details. The suspense is built up from the moment the audience learns of Iago's plans and continues to build as the audience learns more from the resulting drama.  Only the audience is completely aware of the situation at the conclusion of the play. The remaining characters do not fully know of Iago's tricks and motivations, but the audience knew the entirety because of Iago's confessions to the audience.