Podcast
Questions and Answers
The tragic irony is that the man she is talking about is her ______.
The tragic irony is that the man she is talking about is her ______.
husband
The repeated reference to her ______ is sadly prophetic.
The repeated reference to her ______ is sadly prophetic.
hanging
Othello reminds himself of the “______” of his actions.
Othello reminds himself of the “______” of his actions.
Justice
Desdemona’s murder is twisted and is the result of ______’s devious actions.
Desdemona’s murder is twisted and is the result of ______’s devious actions.
Othello stalks a sleeping ______ as the scene begins.
Othello stalks a sleeping ______ as the scene begins.
Shakespeare’s use of paradox in this speech effectively communicates the ______ in the mind of Othello.
Shakespeare’s use of paradox in this speech effectively communicates the ______ in the mind of Othello.
Othello must convince himself that her death is a ______ act.
Othello must convince himself that her death is a ______ act.
The scene begins with Othello talking to himself, trying to ______ himself that her death is necessary.
The scene begins with Othello talking to himself, trying to ______ himself that her death is necessary.
The audience is aware that Othello’s idea of justice is ______.
The audience is aware that Othello’s idea of justice is ______.
The play reaches its ______ climax in Act 5, Scene 2.
The play reaches its ______ climax in Act 5, Scene 2.
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Study Notes
Iago's Character
- Iago confesses he hates Othello and Cassio, and intends to appear loyal while planning revenge
- His statement "I am not what I am" (Act 1 Scene 1) reveals his duplicity and demonic nature
- Iago's appearance belies his true self, concealing his motives and beliefs
Othello's Introduction
- Othello introduces himself as a noble character who believes in his own respect and esteem
- He is proud of his "royal" background and expects respect from others
- Iago begins to plan revenge, using Cassio's actions to his advantage
Cassio's role
- Cassio is greeted by Desdemona on her arrival at Cyprus
- Iago sees an opportunity in Cassio's enthusiastic welcome, planning to ensnare him
Othello and Desdemona's Relationship
- Othello and Desdemona are reunited on Cyprus, demonstrating their strong feelings for each other
- Othello declares his happiness, fearing nothing if he were to die at that moment
- Their love for each other is clear, but the speech is sadly prophetic
Iago's Control
- Iago controls the conversation, suggesting the affair between Cassio and Desdemona
- He realizes the significance of the handkerchief, using it as "proof" of Desdemona's indiscretions
- Iago's dominance is shown as Othello begins to doubt Desdemona's loyalty
The Handkerchief
- The handkerchief is symbolic of Othello and Desdemona's faith and commitment
- Iago uses it as proof of Desdemona's infidelity, which Othello believes without question
Climax and Tragedy
- The tension builds as Othello's madness deepens, eventually leading to violence
- Desdemona's innocence is highlighted, making the tragedy more devastating for the audience
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