Preparation for Othello test (AP Lang)
Iago is offended by Othello's choice for lieutenant. Name at least three faults he finds in Cassio's.
- He hasn't been to war- Only good at math- Knows nothing about war
What is the story of the handkerchief?
An Egyptian woman gave the handkerchief to Othello's mother. She was a witch, and she could almost read people's thoughts. She told Othello's mother that as long as she kept it with her, Othello's father would love and desire her. But if she lost it or gave it away, Othello's father would start hating her and looking at other women. When she was dying she gave it to Othello and told him to give it to his wife when he got married.
Why does Othello not go to him when he hears Cassio cry for help?
Because Iago said he will would kill Cassio, so he was going along with the plan
Why does it seem that there will be no war at Cyprus now?
Because there is a storm.
Who does Iago accuse of having a part in Cassio's attack?
Bianca
Who does Desdemona say killed her?
Desdemona declares she is guiltless, but when Emilia asks her who murdered her, she refuses to name Othello. "Nobody. I myself," Desdemona says. Desdemona finally dies asking Emilia to give Othello her love
What is not clear about the Turkish fleet advancing toward Cyprus?
It is not clear if the Turkish plan on invading Cyprus.
Why is the napkin(handkerchief) of Desdemona's so important according to Emilia?
It is the first gift of Othello.
Why is it more manipulative of Iago to come back after leaving?
It makes him seem obedient and caring.
What does the Duke mean by his suggestion "... take up this mangled matter at the best./ Men do their broken weapons rather use Than their bare hands"?
He tells Brabantio to leave the matter alone and to stop fighting their marriage.
What does Othello command Desdemona to do?
He tells her to go to bed.
In Iago's soliloquy, he gives another reason that he hates Othello. What does he suspect about him?
He think Othello has slept with his wife, Emilia.
How does Brabantio think Othello won Desdemona over?
He thinks that Othello has bewitched her with spells and charms.
What does Iago want to happen to Cassio?
He wants Cassio to die
Why do Montano and Cassio fight?
He was trying to stop a fight between Roderigo and Cassio.
Which of his traits does Othello address in his soliloquy that he thinks Desdemona might not like?
His race and better suited to war than love.
What is Othello's suggestion for finding out the truth (if he drugged her or used magic on her)?
His suggestion is that they ask Desdemona herself.
Summary of Act 5 Scene 2
Holding a candle, Othello stands over the sleeping Desdemona and prepares to kill her. He bends down to kiss her once before he does the deed, she wakes, and he tells her to prepare to die. Growing frightened, Desdemona asks her husband why he means to kill her, and Othello responds that she has been unfaithful to him with Cassio—he has seen the proof in the handkerchief. Othello refuses to believe Desdemona's denial of the charge, saying that Cassio has confessed but will speak no more, since he has been killed by Iago. Desdemona begins to weep for Cassio, which only drives Othello into a greater rage. Wrestling with her as she begs to be allowed to live just a little longer, Othello finally succeeds in smothering his wife. Emilia calls from outside the door, and Othello, apparently delirious, confuses her cries with his wife's and concludes that Desdemona is not yet dead. Thinking himself to be merciful, and not wanting to have his wife linger in pain, he smothers her again. Othello draws the bed curtains and lets Emilia in. Emilia informs Othello that Cassio has killed Roderigo. Othello asks if Cassio has been killed as well, and Emilia informs him that Cassio is alive. As Othello begins to realize that his plans have gone awry, Desdemona cries out that she has been murdered. She stays alive long enough to recant this statement, telling Emilia that she was not murdered but killed herself. She dies. Othello triumphantly admits to Emilia that he killed Desdemona, and when she asks him why, Othello tells her that Iago opened his eyes to Desdemona's falsehood. Unfazed by Othello's threat that she "were best" to remain silent, Emilia calls out for help, bringing Montano, Graziano, and Iago to the scene (V.ii.168). As the truth of Iago's villainy begins to come out through Emilia's accusations, Othello falls weeping upon the bed that contains the body of his dead wife. Almost to himself, Graziano expresses relief that Brabanzio is dead—the first news the audience has heard of this—and has not lived to see his daughter come to such a terrible end. Othello still clings to his belief in Iago's truth and Desdemona's guilt, mentioning the handkerchief and Cassio's "confession." When Othello mentions the handkerchief, Emilia erupts, and Iago, no longer certain that he can keep his plots hidden, attempts to silence her with his sword. Graziano stops him and Emilia explains how she found the handkerchief and gave it to Iago. Othello runs at Iago but is disarmed by Montano. In the commotion, Iago is able to stab his wife, who falls, apparently dying. Iago flees and is pursued by Montano and Graziano. Left alone onstage with the bodies of the two women, Othello searches for another sword. Emilia's dying words provide eerie background music, as she sings a snatch of the song "Willow." She tells Othello that Desdemona was chaste and loved him.
Who killed Emilia?
Iago
Who is the Duke of Venice?
Leader of the govt of Venice. He appoints Othello to lead soldiers against a Turkish attack on Cyprus, urges Brabantio to accept Desdemona/Othello marriage.
What, in general, are Iago and Cassio saying about Desdemona at the beginning of the scene?
Iago talks negatively of Desdemona while Cassio says she is of high morale value and that
What rumor does Iago start with Montano about Cassio?
Iago tells Montano that while Cassio is a wonderful soldier, he fears that Cassio may have too much responsibility for someone with such a serious drinking problem.
Since Othello has to leave immediately, who will be in charge of Desdemona? Who will attend on her?
Iago will take care of her
How will this help Iago's plan?
Now that Cassio will be spending time with Desdemona, Iago will find it all the easier to convince Othello that Desdemona is having an affair with Cassio, thus turning Desdemona's virtue to "pitch"
Summary of Act 2 Scene 1
On the shores of Cyprus, Montano, the island's governor, watches a storm with two gentlemen. Just as Montano says that the Turkish fleet of ships could not survive the storm, a third gentlemen comes to confirm his prediction: as his ship traveled from Venice, Cassio witnessed that the Turks lost most of their fleet in the tempest. It is still uncertain whether Othello's ship has been able to survive the storm. Hope lifts as voices offstage announce the sighting of a sail offshore, but the new ship turns out to be carrying Iago, Emilia, Desdemona, and Roderigo. Desdemona disembarks, and no sooner does Cassio tell her that Othello has yet to arrive than a friendly shot announces the arrival of a third ship. While the company waits for the ship, Cassio and Desdemona tease Emilia about being a chatterbox, but Iago quickly takes the opportunity to criticize women in general as deceptive and hypocritical, saying they are lazy in all matters except sex: "You rise to play and go to bed to work" (II.i.118). Desdemona plays along, laughing as Iago belittles women, whether beautiful or ugly, intelligent or stupid, as equally despicable. Cassio takes Desdemona away to speak with her privately about Othello's arrival. Iago notices that Cassio takes Desdemona's hand as he talks to her, and, in an aside, Iago plots to use Cassio's hand-holding to frame him so that he loses his newly gained promotion to lieutenant. "With as little a web as this I will ensnare as great a fly as Cassio," he asserts (II.i.169). Othello arrives safely and greets Desdemona, expressing his devotion to her and giving her a kiss. He then thanks the Cypriots for their welcome and hospitality, and orders Iago to unload the ship. All but Roderigo and Iago head to the castle to celebrate the drowning of the Turks. Iago tells the despondent Roderigo that Desdemona will soon grow tired of being with Othello and will long for a more well-mannered and handsome man. But, Iago continues, the obvious first choice for Desdemona will be Cassio, whom Iago characterizes over and over again as a "knave" (II.i.231-239). Roderigo tries to argue that Cassio was merely being polite by taking Desdemona's hand, but Iago convinces him of Cassio's ill intentions and convinces Roderigo to start a quarrel with Cassio that evening. He posits that the uproar the quarrel will cause in the still tense city will make Cassio fall out of favor with Othello. Left alone onstage again, Iago explains his actions to the audience in a soliloquy. He secretly lusts after Desdemona, partially because he suspects that Othello has slept with Emilia, and he wants to get even with the Moor "wife for wife" (II.i.286). But, Iago continues, if he is unable to get his revenge by sleeping with Desdemona, Roderigo's accusation of Cassio will make Othello suspect his lieutenant of sleeping with his wife and torture Othello to madness.
Summary of Act 4 Scene 1
Othello and Iago enter in mid-conversation. Iago goads Othello by arguing that it is no crime for a woman to be naked with a man, if nothing happens. Iago then remarks that if he were to give his wife a handkerchief, it would be hers to do as she wished with it. These persistent insinuations of Desdemona's unfaithfulness work Othello into an incoherent frenzy. He focuses obsessively on the handkerchief and keeps pumping Iago for information about Cassio's comments to Iago. Finally, Iago says that Cassio has told him he has lain with Desdemona, and Othello "[f]alls down in a trance" (IV.i.41 stage direction). Cassio enters, and Iago mentions that Othello has fallen into his second fit of epilepsy in two days. He warns Cassio to stay out of the way but tells him that he would like to speak once Othello has gone. Othello comes out of his trance, and Iago explains that Cassio stopped by and that he has arranged to speak with the ex-lieutenant. Iago orders Othello to hide nearby and observe Cassio's face during their conversation. Iago explains that he will make Cassio retell the story of where, when, how, and how often he has slept with Desdemona, and when he intends to do so again. When Othello withdraws, Iago informs the audience of his actual intention. He will joke with Cassio about the prostitute Bianca, so that Cassio will laugh as he tells the story of Bianca's pursuit of him. Othello will be driven mad, thinking that Cassio is joking with Iago about Desdemona. The plan works: Cassio laughs uproariously as he tells Iago the details of Bianca's love for him, and even makes gestures in an attempt to depict her sexual advances. Just as Cassio says that he no longer wishes to see Bianca, she herself enters with the handkerchief and again accuses Cassio of giving her a love token given to him by another woman. Bianca tells Cassio that if he doesn't show up for supper with her that evening, he will never be welcome to come back again. Othello has recognized his handkerchief and, coming out of hiding when Cassio and Bianca are gone, wonders how he should murder his former lieutenant. Othello goes on to lament his hardheartedness and love for Desdemona, but Iago reminds him of his purpose. Othello has trouble reconciling his wife's delicacy, class, beauty, and allure with her adulterous actions. He suggests that he will poison his wife, but Iago advises him to strangle her in the bed that she contaminated through her infidelity. Iago also promises to arrange Cassio's death. Desdemona enters with Lodovico, who has come from Venice with a message from the duke. Lodovico irritates Othello by inquiring about Cassio, and Desdemona irritates Othello by answering Lodovico's inquiries. The contents of the letter also upset Othello—he has been called back to Venice, with orders to leave Cassio as his replacement in Cyprus. When Desdemona hears the news that she will be leaving Cyprus, she expresses her happiness, whereupon Othello strikes her. Lodovico is horrified by Othello's loss of self-control, and asks Othello to call back Desdemona, who has left the stage. Othello does so, only to accuse her of being a false and promiscuous woman. He tells Lodovico that he will obey the duke's orders, commands Desdemona to leave, and storms off. Lodovico cannot believe that the Othello he has just seen is the same self-controlled man he once knew. He wonders whether Othello is mad, but Iago refuses to answer Lodovico's questions, telling him that he must see for himself.
Summary of Act 1 Scene 1
Othello begins on a street in Venice, in the midst of an argument between Roderigo and Iago. The rich Roderigo has been paying Iago to help him in his suit to Desdemona, but he has seen no progress, and he has just learned that Desdemona has married Othello, a general whom Iago serves as ensign. Iago reassures Roderigo that he hates Othello. Chief among Iago's reasons for this hatred is Othello's recent promotion of Michael Cassio to the post of lieutenant. In spite of Iago's service in battle and the recommendation of three "great ones" of the city, Othello chose to give the position to a man with no experience leading men in battle. As he waits for an opportunity to further his own self-interest, Iago only pretends to serve Othello. Iago advises Roderigo to spoil some of Othello's pleasure in his marriage by rousing Desdemona's family against the general. The two men come to the street outside the house of Desdemona's father, Brabantio, and cry out that he has been robbed by "thieves." Brabantio, who is a Venetian senator, comes to the window. At first, he doesn't believe what he hears, because he has told Roderigo to stay away from his daughter before and thinks Roderigo is merely scheming once again in order to see Desdemona. Iago speaks in inflammatory terms, vulgarly telling the senator that his daughter and Othello are having sex by saying that they are "making the beast with two backs". Brabantio begins to take what he hears seriously and decides to search for his daughter. Seeing the success of his plan, Iago leaves Roderigo alone and goes to attend on Othello. Like Brabantio, Othello has no idea of Iago's role in Roderigo's accusations. As Iago departs, Brabantio comes out of his house, furious that his daughter has left him. Declaring that his daughter has been stolen from him by magic "charms," Brabantio and his men follow Roderigo to Othello.
Summary of Act 3 Scene 2
Iago, Othello, and a gentleman walk together at the citadel. Othello gives Iago some letters to deliver and decides to take a look at the town's fortification.
About what does Othello question Emilia?
If she's heard about the affair between Cassio and Desdemona.
Summary of Act 3 Scene 1
In an effort to win Othello's good graces, Cassio sends musicians to play music beneath the general's window. Othello sends his servant, a clown, or peasant, to tell the musicians to go away. Cassio asks the clown to entreat Emilia to come speak with him, so that he can ask her for access to Desdemona. When the clown leaves, Iago enters and tells Cassio that he will send for Emilia straightaway and figure out a way to take Othello aside so that Cassio and Desdemona can confer privately. After Iago exits, Emilia enters and tells Cassio that Othello and Desdemona have been discussing his case. Desdemona has pleaded for Cassio, but Othello worries that Montano's influence and popularity in Cyprus would make Cassio's reappointment impractical, no matter how much Othello cares for his former lieutenant. Emilia allows Cassio to come in and tells him to wait for Desdemona.
What does Othello do that Lodovico finds unacceptable?
Othello hits Desdemona
For what two reasons does Iago kill Roderigo?
1. So he wouldn't demand for money back 2. So he would not reveal the plan
Why are they referring to Othello as "the Moor" and "his Moorship?" Start noticing other examples of similar references.
A Moor is someone who is dark-skinned from North Africa. By calling him the Moor they are calling out his skin color in a derogatory way.
Who is Lodovico, and why has he come to Venice?
A Venisian nobleman. Lodovico is Desdemona's cousin (son of Gratiano)
Summary of Act 2 Scene 2
A herald announces that Othello plans revelry for the evening in celebration of Cyprus's safety from the Turks, and also in celebration of his marriage to Desdemona.
Summary of Act 4 Scene 3
After dinner, Othello proposes to walk with Lodovico, and sends Desdemona to bed, telling her that he will be with her shortly and that she should dismiss Emilia. Desdemona seems aware of her imminent fate as she prepares for bed. She says that if she dies before Emilia, Emilia should use one of the wedding sheets for her shroud. As Emilia helps her mistress to undress, Desdemona sings a song, called "Willow," about a woman whose love forsook her. She says she learned the song from her mother's maid, Barbary, who died singing the song after she had been deserted by her lover. The song makes Desdemona think about adultery, and she asks Emilia whether she would cheat on her husband "for all the world" (IV.iii.62). Emilia says that she would not deceive her husband for jewels or rich clothes, but that the whole world is a huge prize and would outweigh the offense. This leads Emilia to speak about the fact that women have appetites for sex and infidelity just as men do, and that men who deceive their wives have only themselves to blame if their wives cheat on them. Desdemona replies that she prefers to answer bad deeds with good deeds rather than with more bad deeds. She readies herself for bed.
Why does Brabantio say Roderigo is not welcome at his home?
Roderigo has told Brabantio that he is interested in his daughter previously and Brabantio said his daughter has no interest in him and rejected him. Therefore, he needs to leave.
What is Roderigo's "job" when Cassio is on guard duty?
Roderigo is supposed to start a quarrel with drunk Cassio.
What does Iago say to initiate Othello's jealousy?
Seeing that Cassio ran away when he saw Othello, Iago convinces him that he was avoiding him because he is having an affair and not because he's scared.
What piece of evidence does Iago give that shows Desdemona is capable of deceiving?
She has deceived her father so she is capable of deceiving.
Who is Emilia?
She is a lady in waiting for Desdemona. She is Iago's wife.
Who is Desdemona?
She is very honest and straightforward. She is a Venetian lady who is loyal to Othello and marries him before the start of the play. Her father is Brabantio. She is killed by Othello at the end.
Explain what Emilia is thinking.
She thinks the politics have crowed Othello's judgment and he is taking his anger out on her. She says maybe some lying jerk made up a rumor and he is jealous.
Where does Desdemona want to live while Othello goes to war?
She wants to go with Othello.
What does Desdemona mean when she promises Cassio "I'll watch him tame and talk him out of patience; His bed shall seem a school, his board a shrift; I'll intermingle everything he does With Cassio's suit"?
She will not let Othello rest until she succeeds in making him friends with Cassio again. These lines are a representation of her kind and helpful nature. The last two lines foreshadow future events.
Could Desdemona ever cheat on her husband?
She would never cheat on her husband.
What names does Othello call Desdemona?
Strumpet and wh*re.
What news does Emilia bring?
That Roderigo is dead, and Cassio is injured but alive.
What other false information do they receive during the meeting about the Turkish fleet?
That the Turks have decided to invade Rhodes. But instead they have picked up more military and are turning back towards Cyprus.
What does the herald tell everyone?
That the evening will be full of celebration for Othello.
What do we learn about Cassio and Bianca?
That they are lovers.
Summary of Act 1 Scene 3
The duke's meeting with his senators about the imminent Turkish invasion of Cyprus takes an unexpected turn when a sailor arrives and announces that the Turks seem to have turned toward Rhodes, another island controlled by Venice. One of the senators guesses that the Turks' change of course is intended to mislead the Venetians, because Cyprus is more important to the Turks and far more vulnerable than Rhodes. This guess proves to be correct, as another messenger arrives to report that the Turks have joined with more forces and are heading back toward Cyprus. This military meeting is interrupted by the arrival of Brabantio, Othello, Cassio, Iago, Roderigo, and officers. Brabantio demands that all state business be put aside to address his own grievance—his daughter has been stolen from him by spells and potions purchased from charlatans. The duke is initially eager to take Brabantio's side, but he becomes more skeptical when he learns that Othello is the man accused. The duke gives Othello the chance to speak for himself. Othello admits that he married Desdemona, but he denies having used magic to woo her and claims that Desdemona will support his story. He explains that Brabantio frequently invited him to his house and questioned him about his remarkable life story, full of harrowing battles, travels outside the civilized world, and dramatic reversals of fortune. Desdemona overheard parts of the story and found a convenient time to ask Othello to retell it to her. Desdemona was moved to love Othello by his story. The duke is persuaded by Othello's tale, dismissing Brabantio's claim by remarking that the story probably would win his own daughter. Desdemona enters, and Brabantio asks her to tell those present to whom she owes the most obedience. Brabantio clearly expects her to say her father. Desdemona, however, confirms that she married Othello of her own free will and that, like her own mother before her, she must shift her primary loyalty from father to husband. Brabantio reluctantly resigns himself to her decision and allows the court to return to state affairs. The duke decides that Othello must go to Cyprus to defend the island from the Turks. Othello is willing and ready to go, and he asks that appropriate accommodations be provided for his wife. The duke suggests that she stay with her father, but neither Desdemona nor Brabantio nor Othello will accept this, and Desdemona asks to be allowed to go with Othello. The couple then leaves to prepare for the night's voyage. The stage is cleared, leaving only Roderigo and Iago. Once again, Roderigo feels that his hopes of winning Desdemona have been dashed, but Iago insists that all will be well. Iago mocks Roderigo for threatening to drown himself, and Roderigo protests that he can't help being tormented by love. Iago contradicts him, asserting that people can choose at will what they want to be. "Put but money in thy purse," Iago tells Roderigo repeatedly in the paragraph that spans lines 329-351, urging him to follow him to Cyprus. Iago promises to work everything out from there. When Roderigo leaves, Iago delivers his first soliloquy, declaring his hatred for Othello and his suspicion that Othello has slept with his wife, Emilia. He lays out his plan to cheat Roderigo out of his money, to convince Othello that Cassio has slept with Desdemona, and to use Othello's honest and unsuspecting nature to bring him to his demise.
Why does Gratiano say it's best that Brabantio is dead?
The news of Desdemona was dead his grief would have killed him anyways. He Died of grief over Desdemona and Othello getting married
What does Emilia mean when she says, "'Tis not a year or two shows us a man. They are all but stomachs, and we all but food; To eat us hungerly, and when they are full, They belch us."
The only thing men want from women is sex and when they've gotten what they want they go out looking for something more pleasing.
When everyone exits Scene 1, what are they going to do?
They went to find Othello.
Explain why Emilia thinks it is the husband's fault if the wife cheats
This leads Emilia to speak about the fact that women have appetites for sex and infidelity just as men do, and that men who deceive their wives have only themselves to blame if their wives cheat on them.
Iago says, "But he that filches from me my good ___________ Robs me of that which no enriches him And makes me poor indeed." Explain.
This means that when you steal someone's reputation it does not benefit you it only hurts the victim
Why did Shakespeare write the scene with the musicians, the clown and Cassio?
This scene is to mirror what is happening with the main characters.
What does Desdemona try to convince Othello to do before he kills her?
To pray for forgiveness for her sins, so she can go to heaven.
How does Iago suggest Othello kill Desdemona? What is the reasoning for this method?
To strangle her in the same bed she cheated on Othello with Cassio. To have Othello feel as though she is dying on what she contaminated.
What does Othello ask the men to say about him in their account of the events?
To tell his story exactly as it happened. Tell that his fault was loving to make and being manipulated into jealousy.
Why do Gratiano and Lodovico not go help?
Two passers-by, Lodovico and Gratiano, have heard him, but they also hear Roderigo, and they are afraid to follow the voices into the dark. Lodovico thinks some thugs might be trying to lure them into danger
Who is Montano?
former governor of Cyprus who supports Othello.
Why does Iago want Cassio to drink more wine?
to get him drunk and in a "fight" with Roderigo.
What animal analogy does Iago make about Othello and Desdemona? Answer with a quote.
"You'll have your daughter covered with a barbary horse" "Your daughter and the Moor are now making the beast with two backs"
What is Iago's alternate plan for Roderigo?
"put money in thy purse". He tells Roderigo that Desdemona likes wealthy men and that Roderigo should sell all his stuff and keep his money.
Why does Othello throw money at Emilia?
By paying Emilia, Othello is implying that Desdemona is a wh*re whose time costs money
Who is the new governor of Cyprus?
Cassio
Who will determine Iago's punishment?
Cassio
What is ironic about Cassio's statement "I never knew a Florentine more kind and honest?"
Cassio believes that Iago is kind and honest even though he is the one who got him fired and is manipulating him.
Why does Cassio not want to drink?
Cassio is on duty and does not want to be irresponsible.
Why does Iago say Cassio MUST die?
Cassio must die, otherwise he would tell everyone the truth about Desdemona and Iago's plan would fail
Who is Bianca?
Cassio's mistress. She falls in love with him
Summary of Act 3 Scene 4
Desdemona orders the clown to find Cassio and bring him the message that she has made her suit to Othello. As the clown departs, Desdemona wonders to Emilia where her handkerchief might be. Othello enters and tells Desdemona to give him her hand. She does so, and he chastises her for her hand's moistness, which suggests sexual promiscuity. He then asks her to lend him her handkerchief. When Desdemona cannot produce the handkerchief he wants to see, Othello explains the handkerchief's history. An Egyptian sorceress gave it to his mother and told her that it would make her desirable and keep Othello's father loyal, but if she lost it or gave it away, Othello's father would leave her. Othello's mother gave him the magic handkerchief on her deathbed, instructing him to give it to the woman he desired to marry. Desdemona is unsettled by the story and says that she has the handkerchief, but not with her. Othello does not believe her. As he accuses her, demanding "The handkerchief!" with increasing vehemence, she entreats for Cassio as a way of changing the subject. After Othello storms off, Emilia laments the fickleness of men. Cassio and Iago enter, and Cassio immediately continues with his suit to Desdemona for help. Desdemona tells Cassio that his timing is unfortunate, as Othello is in a bad humor, and Iago promises to go soothe his master. Emilia speculates that Othello is jealous, but Desdemona maintains her conviction that Othello is upset by some political matter. She tells Cassio to wait while she goes to find Othello and bring him to talk with his former lieutenant. While Cassio waits, Bianca, a prostitute, enters. She reprimands him for not visiting her more frequently, and he apologizes, saying that he is under stress. He asks her to copy the embroidery of a handkerchief he recently found in his room onto another handkerchief. Bianca accuses him of making her copy the embroidery of a love gift from some other woman, but Cassio tells her she is being silly. They make a plan to meet later that evening.
Why does Desdemona think something bad is going to happen?
Desdemona sings the "Willow Song," remembering the maid Barbary whose lover went mad and abandoned her, and she died singing this song. ... She has a vague premonition of death and requests of Emilia, "If I do die before thee, prithee shroud me / In one of those same sheets"
Who is Gratiano?
Desdemona's uncle/ Brabantio's brother
Summary of Act 3 Scene 3
Desdemona, Cassio, and Emilia enter mid-conversation. Desdemona has just vowed to do everything she can on Cassio's behalf when Othello and Iago enter. Cassio quickly departs, protesting to Desdemona that he feels too uneasy to do himself any good. Othello asks whether it was Cassio he saw leaving the room, and Iago responds that surely Cassio would not behave like a guilty man at Othello's approach. Desdemona entreats Othello to forgive Cassio and reinstate him as lieutenant. Othello assures her that he will speak to Cassio, but he answers evasively when she tries to set a meeting time. She criticizes Othello for responding to her request so grudgingly and hesitantly, and he tells her that he will deny her nothing but wishes to be left to himself for a little while. Alone with Othello, Iago begins his insinuations of an affair between Cassio and Desdemona by reminding Othello that Cassio served as Othello and Desdemona's go-between during their courtship. Othello asks Iago whether he believes Cassio to be honest, and Iago feigns reluctance to answer. Iago plants in Othello's mind thoughts of adultery, cuckoldry, and hypocrisy, until Othello screams at the ensign to speak his mind. Iago suggests that Othello observe his wife closely when she is with Cassio. Othello tells Iago to have Emilia watch Desdemona when she is with Cassio. Iago appears to retreat from his accusations and suggests that Othello leave the matter alone. But he has already made his point. By himself, Othello muses that his wife no longer loves him, probably because he is too old for her, because he is black, and because he doesn't have the manners of a courtier. "She's gone," he laments
Who exposes Iago's corruption?
Emilia
What does the Duke's letter command?
For Othello to come home and leave Cassio to govern his place, Cyprus.
What does Iago plan for Roderigo to do tonight?
For him to kill Cassio.
Who is Cassio?
From Florence, Othello's lieutenant who is very honorable.
What does Othello say to Cassio after he drinks?
He dismisses Cassio from his services as Lieutenant.
Briefly summarize the story that Othello tells of how he and Desdemona fell in love.
He explains that Brabanzio frequently invited him to his house and questioned him about his remarkable life story, full of harrowing battles, travels outside the civilized world, and dramatic reversals of fortune. Desdemona overheard parts of the story and found a convenient time to ask Othello to retell it to her. Desdemona was moved to love Othello by his story.
What does Iago give Othello for proof that Cassio is cheating with Desdemona?
He gave him Desdemona's handkerchief and said that he saw Cassio with it.
How does Iago "prove" to Othello that Cassio and Desdemona have been together?
He gets Cassio laughing about Bianca however Othello is listening in and thinks he is talking about Desdemona. Iago said if he laughs they have had relations.
What happens to Othello when he gets really upset?
He goes into a epileptic seizure, trance
Why does Desdemona say that now is not a good time to talk to Othello about Cassio?
He has not been acting like himself and he is very jealous.
Who is Brabantio?
He is Desdemona's father, a Venetian senator, and is not happy with his daughter's choice of husband. But he eventually accepts this. At first, he believed Othello had bewitched his daughter with charms in order to get her to marry him.
What will Iago do with the napkin?
He is going to leave it in Cassio's room.
Who is Roderigo?
He is in love with Desdemona and tries to get with her the whole play until he is killed by Iago. He pays Iago to help Desdemona fall in love with him. He is very easily manipulated.
Why is Cassio worried?
He is not sure if Othello's ship survived the storm.
Who is Iago?
He is the antagonist of this play. The villian. He is Othello's ensign in the Venetian military who wanted a promotion. However, the promotion was given to Cassio, and now he wants revenge.
Who is Othello?
He is the tragic hero. He is a Moor (African man), and general in Venice. He marries Desdemona and is very successful in battle but is insecure in personal affairs.
What happens to Othello?
He kills himself
What does Othello do for Iago at the end of the scene?
He makes him his lieutenant
Summarize Iago's second soliloquy.
He plans on how to drag Cassio fully into his revenge plan against Othello.
How does Brabantio insult Othello?
He says Othello is an abuser of the world
Now that Othello and Desdemona are married, what does Roderigo say he is going to do?
He says he wants to drown himself.
What does Brabantio do when Desdemona says that she DOES love the Moor?
He says that the Duke should continue with state affairs and then he says he would rather adopt a child than have Desdemona.
Why does Iago say that he doesn't want to tell Othello his thoughts about Cassio?
He says they are wicked and untrue and he doesn't want to burden Othello with them.
What advice does Iago give Cassio about getting back into Othello's favor?
He says to petition him since Othello doesn't hate him and to go to Desdemona to get to Othello.
How does Iago prove to be disgusting and rude? How does he view women?
He says women are only good for sex. He is extremely sexist and misogynistic.
Summary of Act 5 scene 1
Iago and Roderigo wait outside the brothel where Cassio visits Bianca. Iago positions Roderigo with a rapier (a type of sword) in a place where he will be able to ambush Cassio. Iago then withdraws himself, although Roderigo asks him not to go too far in case he needs help killing Cassio. Cassio enters, and Roderigo stabs at him but fails to pierce Cassio's armor. Cassio stabs and wounds Roderigo. Iago darts out in the commotion, stabs Cassio in the leg, and exits. Not knowing who has stabbed him, Cassio falls. At this moment, Othello enters. Hearing Cassio's cries of murder, Othello believes that Iago has killed him. Inspired by what he believes to be Iago's successful vengeance, Othello returns to his bedroom to kill Desdemona. Lodovico and Graziano enter and hear Cassio's and Roderigo's cries. They can see nothing because of the darkness, and they are wary of helping the crying men in case it is a trap. Iago enters carrying a light. He first pretends to discover Cassio, who begs him for help, and then stumbles upon Cassio's assailant, Roderigo, whom Iago stabs without hesitation. Graziano and Lodovico are still unable to see Iago, and they are unaware of what he is doing. Finally, the three men come face-to-face, and they question Cassio about his injuries. Bianca enters and begins to cry out when she sees the wounded Cassio. Iago questions Cassio about his assailant, but Cassio can provide no explanation for what has happened. Iago suggests that Roderigo is to blame. Cassio says that he does not know Roderigo. Attendants carry off Cassio and Roderigo's corpse. Emilia enters, and Iago tells her what has happened, adding the explanation, "This is the fruits of whoring" (V.i.118). He and Emilia chastise Bianca, at whose house Cassio had dined that evening. Iago takes Bianca under arrest, and sends Emilia to tell Othello and Desdemona what has happened. Iago ends the scene with an aside: "This is the night / That either makes me or fordoes [undoes] me quite" (V.i.130-131).
Summary of Act 1 Scene 2
Iago arrives at Othello's lodgings, where he warns the general that Brabantio will not hesitate to attempt to force a divorce between Othello and Desdemona. Othello sees a party of men approaching, and Iago, thinking that Brabantio and his followers have arrived, counsels Othello to retreat indoors. Othello stands his ground, but the party turns out to be Cassio and officers from the Venetian court. They bring Othello the message that he is wanted by the duke of Venice about a matter concerning Cyprus, an island in the Mediterranean Sea controlled by Venice. As Cassio and his men prepare to leave, Iago mentions that Othello is married, but before he can say any more, Brabantio, Roderigo, and Brabantio's men arrive to accost Othello. Brabantio orders his men to attack and subdue Othello. A struggle between Brabantio's and Othello's followers seems imminent, but Othello brings the confrontation to a halt by calmly and authoritatively telling both sides to put up their swords. Hearing that the duke has summoned Othello to the court, Brabantio decides to bring his cause before the duke himself.
Why does Iago ask Othello "Did Michael Cassio, when you wooed my lady, Know of your love?"
Iago asks Othello if Cassio knew how he felt for Desdemona. When he asks this, Othello tells him that Cassio did know and why is that relevant.
What two things does he say must happen for it to work (end of Act II)?
Iago finishes telling the audience the plot that is to come: he will convince Emilia to speak to Desdemona on Cassio's behalf, and he will arrange for Othello to witness Cassio's suit to Desdemona.
How is Iago already proving to be two-faced?
Iago is proving to be two faced because as soon as he sees Othello, he warns Othello that Barbantio will not hesitate to divorce him and Desdemona. Further, he then begins telling Cassio that Othello has married.
Explain the "green-eyed monster" quote.
Iago is telling Othello that jealousy is not good but at the same time he is manipulating him to be jealous
List the information that is adding up to make Othello jealous
Iago keeps slowly hinting that Cassio and Desdemona are having an affair with how quickly Cassio runs away from Desdemona and how they spent time together. He says Cassio had a dream of sleeping with Desdemona and that Desdemona gave Cassio Othello's handkerchief.
How is Iago taking a big chance with this method?
Iago needs Cassio to laugh, and he doesn't know if he will laugh
Iago is hatching a plan at the beginning of Act 2, what is it?
Iago plots to use Cassio's hand-holding to frame him so that he loses his newly gained promotion to lieutenant
How does Iago explain Othello's behavior?
Iago says Othello has changed a lot recently.
Why is it easy to fool Othello according to Iago?
Iago says Othello is easy to fool because of how honest and he is "free and open nature".
In lines 169-174, Iago states that Othello has already gone to the Cyprus wars. "Another of his fathom they have none To lead their business; in which regard, Though I do hate him as I do hell-pains, Yet, for necessity of present life, I must show out a flag and sign of love, Which is indeed but a sign." Why is Iago going too?
Iago says he needs to go too because he needs to show Othello that he is on his side, when in reality he has exposed Othello to Brabantio.
Summary of Act 4 Scene 2
Othello interrogates Emilia about Desdemona's behavior, but Emilia insists that Desdemona has done nothing suspicious. Othello tells Emilia to summon Desdemona, implying while Emilia is gone that she is a "bawd," (IV.ii.21). When Emilia returns with Desdemona, Othello sends Emilia to guard the door. Alone with Desdemona, Othello weeps and proclaims that he could have borne any affliction other than the pollution of the "fountain" from which his future children are to flow (IV.ii.61). When Desdemona fervently denies being unfaithful, Othello sarcastically replies that he begs her pardon: he took her for the "cunning wh*re of Venice" who married Othello (IV.ii.93). Othello storms out of the room, and Emilia comes in to comfort her mistress. Desdemona tells Emilia to lay her wedding sheets on the bed for that night. At Desdemona's request, Emilia brings in Iago, and Desdemona tries to find out from him why Othello has been treating her like a wh*re. Emilia says to her husband that Othello must have been deceived by some villain, the same sort of villain who made Iago suspect Emilia of sleeping with Othello. Iago assures Desdemona that Othello is merely upset by some official business, and a trumpet flourish calls Emilia and Desdemona away to dinner with the Venetian emissaries. Roderigo enters, furious that he is still frustrated in his love, and ready to make himself known in his suit to Desdemona so that she might return all of the jewels that Iago was supposed to have given her from him. Iago tells Roderigo that Cassio is being assigned to Othello's place. Iago also lies, saying that Othello is being sent to Mauritania, in Africa, although he is really being sent back to Venice. He tells Roderigo that the only way to prevent Othello from taking Desdemona away to Africa with him would be to get rid of Cassio. He sets about persuading Roderigo that he is just the man for "knocking out [Cassio's] brains"
What keeps Othello out of jail for the moment?
Othello is out of jail for the moment because Brabantio wants to present his case to the Duke of Venice.
Othello says, "No, Iago; I'll see before I doubt; when I doubt, prove; And on the proof there is no more but this: Away at once with love or jealousy!" Explain.
Othello is saying that he is not going to doubt Desdemona until he has proof that she is having an affair. If he does doubt then it will prove that the affair was real, and he will stop loving her and he will no longer feel jealous.
Summary of Act 2 Scene 3
Othello leaves Cassio on guard during the revels, reminding him to practice self-restraint during the celebration. Othello and Desdemona leave to consummate their marriage. Once Othello is gone, Iago enters and joins Cassio on guard. He tells Cassio that he suspects Desdemona to be a temptress, but Cassio maintains that she is modest. Then, despite Cassio's protestations, Iago persuades Cassio to take a drink and to invite some revelers to join them. Once Cassio leaves to fetch the revelers, Iago tells the audience his plan: Roderigo and three other Cypriots, all of whom are drunk, will join Iago and Cassio on guard duty. Amidst all the drunkards, Iago will lead Cassio into committing an action that will disgrace him. Cassio returns, already drinking, with Montano and his attendants. It is not long before he becomes intoxicated and wanders offstage, assuring his friends that he isn't drunk. Once Cassio leaves, Iago tells Montano that while Cassio is a wonderful soldier, he fears that Cassio may have too much responsibility for someone with such a serious drinking problem. Roderigo enters, and Iago points him in Cassio's direction. As Montano continues to suggest that something be said to Othello of Cassio's drinking problem, Cassio chases Roderigo across the stage, threatening to beat him. Montano steps in to prevent the fight and is attacked by Cassio. Iago orders Roderigo to leave and "cry a mutiny" (II.iii.140). As Montano and others attempt to hold Cassio down, Cassio stabs Montano. An alarm bell is rung, and Othello arrives with armed attendants. mmediately taking control of the situation, Othello demands to know what happened, but both Iago and Cassio claim to have forgotten how the struggle began. Montano insists that he is in too much pain to speak and insists that Iago tell the story. At first Iago feigns reluctance to incriminate Cassio, emphasizing the fact that he was chasing after Roderigo (to whom Iago does not refer by name) when the fight between Cassio and Montano began, and suggesting that the unknown man must have done something to upset Cassio. Othello falls into Iago's trap, stating that he can tell that Iago softened the story out of honest affection for Cassio. Othello dismisses Cassio from his service. Desdemona has been awakened by the commotion, and Othello leads her back to bed, saying that he will look to Montano's wound. Iago and Cassio remain behind, and Cassio laments the permanent damage now done to his reputation by a quarrel whose cause he cannot even remember. Iago suggests that Cassio appeal to Desdemona, because she commands Othello's attention and goodwill. Iago argues that Desdemona's kindheartedness will prompt her to help Cassio if Cassio entreats her, and that she will persuade Othello to give Cassio back his lieutenantship. When Cassio leaves, Iago jokes about the irony of the fact that his so-called villainy involves counseling Cassio to a course of action that would actually help him. He repeats what he told Cassio about Desdemona's generosity and Othello's devotion to her. However, as Iago reminds the audience, he does the most evil when he seems to do good. Now that Cassio will be spending time with Desdemona, Iago will find it all the easier to convince Othello that Desdemona is having an affair with Cassio, thus turning Desdemona's virtue to "pitch" (II.iii.234). Roderigo enters, upset that he has been beaten and angry because Iago has taken all his money and left Roderigo nothing to show for it. Iago counsels him to be patient and not to return to Venice, reminding him that they have to work by their wits. He assures Roderigo that everything is going according to plan. After telling Roderigo to go, Iago finishes telling the audience the plot that is to come: he will convince Emilia to speak to Desdemona on Cassio's behalf, and he will arrange for Othello to witness Cassio's suit to Desdemona.
What has been Othello's response so far since Desdemona has already asked him to reinstate Cassio?
Othello says that he wants to reinstate Cassio, but he can't.
In lines 91-111, how does Othello explain the fact that he is not a good public speaker?
Othello talks as if he's playing along with the accusations of him cursing Desdamona. I think he knows he can't simply defend himself on his actions because it is something that is shunned so it seems that he's going to put them in pity by telling his love story to them.
Why does Othello threaten Iago ?
Othello threatens to kill Iago because Othello thinks Iago is supplying him with inaccurate information about his wife. He wants to kill Iago because he so hurt by that thought of Desdemona betraying him
What does Iago tell Cassio about reputations when Cassio is concerned that he has ruined his?
What does Iago tell Cassio about reputations when Cassio is concerned that he has ruined his?
What is the "moment of truth" for Emilia?
When Othello tells her Iago told him Desdemona cheated on him.
What does Desdemona want Emilia to do if she dies?
Wrap her in her weddings sheets and place her in the coffin. Foreshadowing that she thinks Othello will kill her, she is love sick
Why does Cassio leave Desdemona when he sees Othello coming?
because he doesn't want to face Othello again
