Othello

Act 1 Scene 1
Roderigo and Iago argue on a Venetian street to begin Othello. Wealthy Roderigo has been
paying Iago to help him marry Desdemona, but he has made little headway and lately found that
Desdemona has married Othello, a general Iago serves as ensign. Iago assures Roderigo he hates
Othello. Iago dislikes Othello for making Michael Cassio lieutenant. Othello selected an
individual without combat experience against Iago's recommendations and three "great ones" of
the city. Iago helps Othello for his own advantage.

Iago orders Roderigo to upset Desdemona's family to wreck Othello's marriage. Two guys yell
that "thieves" robbed Desdemona's father, Brabantio, outside his house. Senator Brabantio
approaches. He doesn't trust Roderigo since he's told him to stay away from his daughter and
fears he's about to visit Desdemona again.

Iago insults the senator by calling his daughter and Othello "creating the beast with two backs"
by having sex (I.i.118). Brabantio seeks for his daughter. Once his scheme works, Iago leaves
Roderigo for Othello. Like Brabantio, Othello doesn't know Iago's role in Roderigo's claims.
Iago exits, and Brabanzio goes, furious that his daughter left him. Brabantio and his men chase
Roderigo to Othello, alleging supernatural "charms" abducted his daughter.

Act 1 Scene 2
Iago informs Othello that Brabanzio would try to divorce Desdemona. Iago tells Othello to get
inside because he thinks Brabanzio and his soldiers have come. Othello resists, but Cassio and
Venetian court officers arrive. They inform Othello that the duke of Venice wants him to discuss
Cyprus, a Mediterranean island owned by Venice.

After Cassio and his men leave, Iago claims that Othello is married, but Brabanzio, Roderigo,
and their men arrive to attack Othello. Brabanzio orders his soldiers to defeat Othello. Othello
quietly orders Brabanzio's and Othello's followers to put down their swords, preventing a fight.
Brabanzio decides to petition the duke after learning that Othello has been summoned to court.
Act 1 Scene 3

A sailor informs the duke's senators that the Turks have turned to Rhodes, another
Venice-controlled island. One senator believes the Turks changed their mind to deceive the
Venetians since Cyprus is more important and vulnerable than Rhodes. Another envoy said the
Turks are returning to Cyprus with stronger forces.

Brabantio, Othello, Cassio, Iago, Roderigo, and others disturb this military meeting. Brabanzio
wants to delay formal processes to address his private grievance—charlatans took his daughter.
Othello's accusation makes the duke distrust Brabanzio. Othello chats. Othello marries
Desdemona. Brabanzio regularly invited him to his home and asked him about his remarkable
life of awful wars, global travel, and great fortune changes. "Othello" Desdemona adored
Othello's narrative. Othello fires Brabanzio. Brabanzio asks Desdemona who she obeys most.
Brabanzio waits. Desdemona, like her mother, married Othello knowingly. Brabanzio hesitates.

Othello defends Cyprus. Othello needs housing for his wife. Desdemona, Brabanzio, and Othello
beg him to take her. They prepare for a nocturnal journey.

Roderigo and Iago stay onstage. Iago comforts Roderigo. Iago mocks Roderigo's suicide wish.
Iago says identity is chosen. Around 329–351, Iago bribes Roderigo to Cyprus. Iago offers
mending. Iago hates Othello and accuses him of sleeping with Emilia when Roderigo leaves. He
aims to deceive Roderigo, convince Othello Cassio slept with Desdemona, and ruin him with his
honesty and naïveté.

Act 2 Scene 1
Storm-watching Montano. As Montano foretold, Cassio, a third gentleman, observed the Turks
lose much of their fleet in the storm as his ship left Venice. Othello's ship may have survived the
storm. Iago, Emilia, Desdemona, and Roderigo sail offshore, increasing hopes. Desdemona
disembarks, and Cassio tells her Othello won't arrive until a friendly fire signals a third ship.

“You wake to play and go to bed to work,” Iago says as Cassio and Desdemona mock Emilia for
conversing while waiting for the ship (II.i.118). Desdemona smiles as Iago considers all women
unattractive. Cassio and Desdemona discuss Othello's arrival. Iago hates Cassio holding
Desdemona's hand while chatting. WebCasio states (II.i.169)

Othello passionately kisses Desdemona. Iago, unload. The castle celebrates the Turks' drowning
except Roderigo and Iago. Iago tells melancholy Roderigo that Desdemona would leave Othello
for a better-mannered and attractive man. Iago predicts Desdemona will select "knave" Cassio
first (II.i.231–239). Iago convinces Roderigo to see Cassio that night. He thinks Othello would
hate Cassio after the city's commotion.

Iago continues. Othello secretly wants Desdemona after sleeping with Emilia (II.i.286).
Roderigo's Cassio allegation will drive Othello insane unless Iago sleeps with Desdemona.

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.

Act 2 Scene 3
Othello teaches Cassio party manners. Desdemona-Othello. Iago and Cassio watch Othello leave.
Cassio feeble, Desdemona attractive. Cassio likes Iago.

Iago advises Roderigo and three drunk Cypriots observe Cassio's revellers. Iago shames Cassio.
Montano, Cassio drink. He sneaks offstage drunk. Iago tells Montano that Cassio is a great
soldier but too responsible for a drunk after Cassio leaves. Iago guides Roderigo to Cassio.
Montano warns Roderigo about Cassio's drinking to Othello. Cassio punches Montano for
winning. "Claim mutiny," Iago tells Roderigo (II.iii.140). Cassio stabs Montano. Armed Othello.

Othello says Iago and Cassio forgot. Montano desires Iago's pain. Iago avoids exposing Cassio
by implying that Roderigo (whom he does not identify) offended Cassio by following him while
Cassio and Montano fought. Othello says Iago sweetened the story out of love for Cassio, falling
into his trap. Othello fires Cassio. Othello beds Desdemona to heal Montano. Cassio worried
about a forgotten dispute destroying his name. Iago suggests Cassio court Desdemona as Othello
likes her. Iago believes Desdemona would support Cassio's lieutenancy petition to Othello.

Iago advises Cassio. Cassio recalls Desdemona's generosity. Iago misbehaves. Iago can show
Othello Desdemona's adultery with Cassio (II.iii.234). Roderigo is furious that Iago battered and
stole his money. Iago warns Venice. Assures Roderigo. Iago promises to get Emilia to talk to
Desdemona and Othello to attend Cassio's wooing after Roderigo leaves.

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, 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.

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.

Act 3 Scene 3
Desdemona, Cassio, Emilia interrupt. Desdemona promises Cassio help when Othello and Iago
come. Cassio leaves Desdemona, saying he's frightened to help. Iago doubts Cassio would
inform Othello.

Desdemona begs Othello to pardon Cassio and reinstate him as lieutenant. Othello ignores
Cassio after promising to meet. Othello promises everything but seeks solitude.

Iago reminds Othello Cassio mediated their courtship. Othello asks Iago if Cassio is honest. Iago
reminds Othello of infidelity, cuckoldry, and hypocrisy until he yells at the ensign to speak. Iago
suggests Othello observe Cassio and Desdemona.

Othello orders Iago to have Emilia watch Desdemona with Cassio. Iago suggests Othello quit.
Showed. Othello thinks his wife dislikes him because he's old, black, and barbaric. sighs
(III.iii.271) (III.iii.271) (III.iii.271).

Desdemona, Emilia, and Othello dine. Desdemona offers to tie Othello's forehead with her
handkerchief after he complains of agony. Othello refuses her handkerchief. Desdemona and
Othello drop the handkerchief. Emilia says her husband asked 100 times and grabs the
handkerchief. Emilia stuns Iago. Sends.

Iago joyfully plants the handkerchief in Cassio's room, enraging Othello. When hurt, Othello
lies. Iago must reveal Desdemona's whoredom. Iago believes Desdemona and Cassio cannot
interact even if they are animal-lustful. Inference.

Second, he informs Othello that Cassio shrieked Desdemona's name in his sleep, wrung Iago's
hand, kissed him hard on the lips, and flung his leg over Iago's thigh in bed. Iago tells Othello
Cassio dreamed this story. Iago claims Cassio wiped his beard with Desdemona's first gift,
Othello's handkerchief. Othello desires revenge. His servant Iago kneels beside him to avenge
Desdemona and Cassio. Othello makes Iago lieutenant.

Act 3 Scene 4
Desdemona tells Cassio she sued Othello. Desdemona questions Emilia about her handkerchief
after the clown leaves. Othello demands Desdemona's hand. Her damp palm makes her
promiscuous. Her handkerchief. Othello describes Desdemona losing her handkerchief.

An Egyptian wizard assured his mother it would make her desirable and keep Othello's father
faithful, but if she lost or threw it away, he would leave. Othello's mother died giving him the
magical handkerchief for his marriage. Desdemona says she has the handkerchief but not with
her. Othello doubts. "The handkerchief!" she urges Cassio to change the subject.

Emilia criticises men's fickleness when Othello storms away. Cassio and Iago enter, and Cassio
instantly asks Desdemona for help. Desdemona warns Cassio about his timing since Othello is
furious. Iago comforts him. Emilia thinks Othello is envious, but Desdemona thinks he is
outraged over politics. Cassio should wait while she finds Othello.

Cassio awaits prostitute Bianca. He apologises. He wants her to mimic his room's handkerchief
embroidery. Cassio calls Bianca crazy for accusing him of making her copy a love gift from
another woman's needlework. That night.

Act 4 Scene 1
Iago interrupts. Iago teases Othello that nude ladies and men are safe. Iago wants a hanky.
Desdemona's betrayal angers Othello. Cassio's. Iago's news "fogs" Othello. Cassio sex
Desdemona (IV.i.41 stage direction). Iago tells Cassio Othello had his second seizure in two
days. He exiles Cassio but wants to talk after Othello. Iago informs Othello Cassio visited and
will meet the ex-lieutenant. Iago orders Othello to conceal and watch Cassio.

Iago will ask Cassio about Desdemona. Othello's departure reveals Iago. Bianca jokes amused
Cassio. Othello hates Desdemona jokes.

Cassio chuckles and gestures while telling Iago Bianca loves him. Cassio apparently loved
Bianca. Bianca won't invite Cassio if he skips dinner.

Othello's handkerchief kills Cassio after leaving. Iago reminds Othello of his purpose as he
laments his hardheartedness and love for Desdemona. Othello can't reconcile his wife's beauty,
class, delicacy, and adultery. Iago instructs him to kill his wife in her dirty bed. Iago kills Cassio.
Venice's Lodovico brings Desdemona. Desdemona replies to Lodovico's Cassio inquiries,
upsetting Othello. The letter instructing Othello to return to Venice and leave Cassio in Cyprus
enraged him. Othello beats Desdemona for leaving Cyprus. Lodovico insists Othello approach
Desdemona. Othello deems her a liar and immoral. Leaving Desdemona. Lodovico incredulous.
Lodovico asks Iago if Othello is mad.

Act 4 Scene 2
Emilia denies Desdemona's claims. When travelling, Othello labels Emilia a "bawd" (female
pimp) (IV.ii.21). Othello tells Emilia to guard the door when Desdemona returns. Alone with
Desdemona, Othello weeps and says he could have endured anything but the contamination of
the "fountain" from which his offspring will pour (IV.ii.61).

Othello calls Desdemona the "cunning whore of Venice" (IV.ii.93). Emilia consoles Desdemona
after Othello storms out. Desdemona tells Emilia to put her wedding sheets on the bed that night.

Emilia asks Iago why Othello treats her like she cheated at Desdemona's request. Emilia informs
her husband of Othello's deception. Iago tells Desdemona that Othello is busy with official work,
and a trumpet call summons Emilia and Desdemona to supper with Venetian authorities.

Roderigo arrives, furious and ready to beg Desdemona to return Iago's jewels. Iago promises
Roderigo Cassio will replace Othello. Iago claims that Othello is heading to Mauritania while
he's headed to Venice. He suggests Roderigo assassinate Cassio to keep Othello from joining
Desdemona in Africa. He promises Roderigo to "blow out [Cassio] brains" (IV.ii.229).

Act 4 Scene 3

Following dinner, Othello suggests walking with Lodovico and sends Desdemona to bed, telling
her he will be with her soon and to fire Emilia. Desdemona prepares for bed knowing her fate. If
she dies before Emilia, Emilia should use a bridal cloth for her shroud. Desdemona sings
"Willow" about a woman whose love left her while Emilia undresses her. She learned the song
from her mother's maid, Barbary, who died singing it after her lover left her.

Desdemona wonders if Emilia would cheat on her husband "for all the world" after hearing the
song (IV.iii.62). Emilia says she would not betray her husband for jewellery or expensive clothes,
but the globe is a big prize and outweighs the crime. Emilia says that men who deceive their
husbands are too responsible if their wives cheat. Desdemona answers that she prefers to repay
evil with good. Bedtime.
Act 5 Scene 1

Iago and Roderigo watch Cassio visit Bianca. Iago ambushes Cassio with Roderigo's rapier. Iago
leaves, but Roderigo tells him to stay close in case he needs help killing Cassio. Roderigo stabs
Cassio but fails. Cassio stabs Roderigo. Iago stabs Cassio and runs. Cassio falls, unaware who
stabbed him. Othello arrives. Othello thinks Iago killed Cassio after hearing his furious yells.
Othello kills Desdemona in his bedroom believing Iago avenged him.

Lodovico and Graziano enter Cassio and Roderigo crying. They're wary of helping the shouting
males in the dark. Iago shines. Iago pretends to discover Cassio, who begs for aid, then stabs
Roderigo, Cassio's assailant. Graziano and Lodovico cannot see Iago or his actions. Three males
confront Cassio about his injuries.

Bianca cries at Cassio. Cassio cannot explain his attacker to Iago. Iago blames Roderigo. Cassio
denies knowing Roderigo. Cassio and Roderigo are exhumed. As Emilia enters, Iago says, "This
is the harvest of whoring" (V.i.118). He and Emilia chastise Cassio's dinner host Bianca. Emilia
tells Othello and Desdemona that Iago arrested Bianca. Iago concludes, “This is the night/ That
either makes me or fordoes [undoes] me quite” (V.i.130–131).

Act 5 Scene 2

Othello burns Desdemona. He kills her after kissing. Desdemona panics and begs her husband.
The handkerchief told Othello she cheated on Cassio. Othello doubts Desdemona since Cassio
confessed but won't talk because Iago killed him. Desdemona crying for Cassio angers Othello.
Othello suffocates Desdemona. Emilia calls outside, and Othello, insane, thinks Desdemona is
alive. Mercifully smothered again.

Othello opens Emilia's bed curtains. Emilia tells Othello Cassio killed Roderigo. Emilia tells
Othello Cassio's alive. Desdemona's death signals Othello's failure. Emilia discovers suicide.
Died. Othello tells Emilia he killed Desdemona because Iago discovered her duplicity. Emilia
asks Montano, Graziano, and Iago for help despite Othello's warning (V.ii.168). Othello weeps
on his dead wife's bed as Emilia's accusations expose Iago's wickedness. Graziano softly
expresses relief that Brabanzio is dead—the audience's first news—and has not witnessed his
daughter die. The handkerchief and Cassio's "confession" convince Othello of Iago's truth and
Desdemona's guilt. After Othello mentions the handkerchief, Iago swords Emilia.

Emilia tells Graziano about finding Iago's handkerchief. Montano disarms Othello while
pursuing Iago. Iago fatally stabs his wife in the turmoil. Montano, Graziano chase Iago. Othello
wants another blade alone. Emilia's "Willow" is terrifying. She tells Othello Desdemona loved
and was chaste. Othello faces Graziano. Montano, Lodovico, Cassio, and imprisoned Iago arrive
soon. After Othello's wounds, Lodovico's men disarm Iago. Iago mocks his bleed-but-live fate.
Roderigo's note informs Lodovico. Othello inquires about Cassio's handkerchief.

Venice needs Lodovico for Othello. Othello asks, “When should these horrible deeds narrate?”
(V.ii.350–351). He killed an Aleppo Turk for Venetians. "I gripped by the throat the circumcised
wolf / And slaughtered him thus," Othello stabs himself with a third sword from cover
(V.ii.364–365). "Death upon a kiss," Othello slips into bed with his wife's body (V.ii.369).
Lodovico orders Montano to execute Graziano as Othello's replacement. Lodovico informs
Venice about Cyprus.

Full Book Summary

Othello begins with affluent Roderigo and Iago squabbling on a Venice street. Roderigo pays
Iago to marry Desdemona. Roderigo learned that Desdemona married Othello, a general Iago
reluctantly serves as ensign. Iago hates Othello because he lost the lieutenant position to the
inexperienced Michael Cassio.

Iago and Roderigo tell Brabantio that Othello, the Moor, kidnapped and wedded Desdemona.
Brabanzio hires officers to hunt Othello when his daughter disappears. Iago leaves Roderigo and
returns to Othello before Brabanzio sees him, disguising his hatred. Cassio carries the duke's
word to Othello's lodgings: the Turkish invasion of Cyprus needs his help. Brabanzio, Roderigo,
and others then accuse Othello of witchcraft. After learning Othello is seeing the duke,
Brabanzio accuses him in the senate.

Brabanzio fails. The duke and senate support Othello. Othello claims his travel and battle tales
won Desdemona, not witchcraft. Desdemona defends her marriage and tells her father she loves
Othello after the duke accepts his explanation. Brabanzio is frustrated but resumes the senate
meeting. Cyprus is defended by Othello. Desdemona and her husband leave that night.

Next day, two gentlemen pose with Cyprus governor Montano on the shore. Third individual
says storm sank Ottoman navy. After Cassio, another ship brings Iago, Roderigo, Desdemona,
and Emilia. They visit the harbour after seeing Othello's ship. Before Othello arrives, Cassio
shakes Desdemona's hand. Iago promises to capture Cassio with "as small a web as this"
hand-holding (II.i.169).

Othello arrives, meets his wife, and announces an evening celebration of Cyprus's safety from
the Turks. Roderigo tells Iago he can't divorce Othello when everyone leaves. Iago tells Roderigo
that Desdemona will leave Othello and find sexual satisfaction elsewhere if her "blood is made
dull with the act of sport" (II.i.222). Iago foresees Cassio "elsewhere." Iago suggests Roderigo
fight Cassio at the revels to embarrass him. Iago soliloquizes that killing Cassio is the first step to
ruining Othello. Iago intoxicates Cassio and has Roderigo attack him that night. Cassio pursues
Roderigo onstage. Cassio stabs Governor Montano. Roderigo warns about Iago.

After the alarm, Othello calms everyone. When Othello asks who initiated the fighting, Iago lies
but tells the whole narrative. Othello fires Cassio. Once everyone leaves, Cassio screams to Iago
that his reputation is ruined. Iago believes Cassio Desdemona may help him reclaim Othello.
Iago promises to make Othello jealous by portraying Cassio and Desdemona as lovers in a
soliloquy.

Cassio sends musicians to reconcile. Othello's clown orders the musicians out. Cassio asks
Othello's peasant clown for Emilia to meet Desdemona. Once the clown leaves, Iago tells Cassio
he will distract Othello to talk to Desdemona. Othello, Iago, and a nobleman check town
defences.

Desdemona sympathises with Cassio and promises to help Othello forgive his former lieutenant.
Cassio exits, Othello and Iago return. Afraid, Cassio leaves Othello. When Othello asks if Cassio
abandoned his wife, Iago replies, “No, certainly, I cannot fathom it, / That he would steal away
so guilty-like, / Knowing your coming” (III.iii.37–39).

Othello is upset when Iago accuses Cassio and Desdemona of cheating. Desdemona's requests to
reinstate Cassio as lieutenant confirm Othello's suspicions. Desdemona invites Othello to supper
after his conversation with Iago and finds him ill. He drops her "[t]oo little" handkerchief
(III.iii.291). Emilia tells Desdemona and Othello that Iago has long wanted her to steal the
handkerchief.

Iago loves Emilia's handkerchief, which he hides in Cassio's room to prove his affair with
Desdemona. Iago witnessed Cassio "wipe his beard" (III.iii.444) with Desdemona's
handkerchief, Othello's first gift to her. Iago will help Othello avenge his wife and Cassio. Later
that evening, Othello requests Desdemona's handkerchief, but she refuses and continues her
Cassio suit. Othello exits enraged. Cassio appears onstage, curious about his room's
handkerchief. He asks prostitute Bianca to copy the handkerchief.

Iago makes Othello jealous and seize. Iago tells Cassio to return in a few minutes while writhing.
After recovering, Iago tells Othello about his Cassio meeting. Othello must hide while Iago tells
Cassio about his affair with Desdemona. Iago questions Cassio about Bianca while Othello is
away, making Cassio laugh and confirm Othello's suspicions. Bianca enters with Desdemona's
handkerchief, chastising Cassio for making her mimic the embroidery of a love present given to
him by another lady. Othello snaps and hits Desdemona when Lodovico enters with a letter from
Venice calling him home and selecting Cassio as his replacement.

Tonight, Othello brands Desdemona a whore. He rejects Emilia's innocence. Iago convinces
Desdemona that Othello is enraged over politics. Later that night, Othello ominously tells
Desdemona to wait for him in bed and send Emilia away. Iago instructs Roderigo to kill Cassio
to protect Desdemona and Othello from leaving. His love will be accessible.

Roderigo fails to ambush Cassio, wounding him. Iago flees Cassio. When Cassio weeps, Othello
suspects Iago killed him. Lodovico and Graziano investigate. Eventually, Iago "discovers" and
murders Cassio's assailant Roderigo. Bandaging Cassio.

Othello prepares to kill his sleeping wife in their bedroom. Desdemona begs Othello. Othello
suffocates her. Emilia reports Roderigo's death. Emilia shocks Othello with Cassio's survival.
Desdemona commits suicide before dying. Othello tells Emilia he killed Desdemona because
Iago informed him of her wickedness.

Iago, Graziano, and Montano enter. Iago suppresses Emilia, who realises his deeds. Iago's
handkerchief convinces Othello. Othello breaks down when Emilia says she found the
handkerchief and gave it to Iago. Iago avoids him. After killing Emilia and fleeing, Lodovico and
Montano catch Iago. Cassio, wounded, arrives. Disarmed, Othello wounds Iago. Othello must
accompany Lodovico to Venice for trial. Othello commits suicide with a hidden sword after
discussing his legacy. Lodovico's monologue concludes. He executes Iago and gives Graziano
Othello's house and goods.

Full Book Analysis

Othello is about a noble military leader who achieves several battlefield victories but sabotages
his most intimate relationship and himself due to judgement errors and his social outsider
position. A Mediterranean military romance begins the drama. After smothering his innocent
wife, Othello commits suicide in a small bedroom. Othello's valour is set against huge exteriors,
while the play's interiors are claustrophobic. The play indicates that bad emotions like envy
strangle a person, preventing them from thinking properly and acting rationally. It compares
Othello's confidence and prowess in combat with his insecurity and manipulation in the home.

Before the play, Othello appoints Cassio as lieutenant, setting the protagonist and antagonist on a
collision course. Iago feels rejected and relegated to the lowest military rank of "ancient"
(ensign) after being passed over for promotion. Iago is furious that Cassio, a worse candidate, got
the job. “For I fear Cassio with my night-cap too,” he says, suspecting Cassio of sleeping with
his wife as well as Othello. (II.i.) Iago feels doubly disgraced since Othello and Cassio, the men
who took his promotion, may be sleeping with his wife. Since we haven't seen Othello yet, we
sympathise with Iago, who has a valid grievance.

After meeting Othello and realising Iago's scheme would fail, the play's tension grows. Othello
and Desdemona's protestations of love and Desdemona's readiness to be disowned by her father
to be with Othello elevate the stakes and turn the audience to Othello's side. The drama heightens
truth-deception conflict by contrasting Othello, Desdemona, and Cassio's virtues with Iago's lies.
As Iago reveals his schemes in asides, the audience becomes his silent accomplice. Iago's talent
as a manipulator is shown as he effortlessly gets Cassio intoxicated, incites him to fight
Roderigo, and gets Othello to fire him while pretending to love Cassio. Iago's calculating,
cynical temperament contrasts with the play's other characters, who are undone by their trusting,
honest natures and inability to see through Iago's deceptions.

In Act III, scene iii, Othello kneels with Iago and vows to avenge his cuckolders. Othello trusts
Iago so much that he makes him his lieutenant, unlike most Shakespearean plays. The audience
wonders when, if ever, Othello would realise Iago's true intentions. Othello becomes a second
antagonist, working with Iago, as he becomes increasingly jealous and refuses to listen to
Desdemona's claims of innocence. From now on, everything Desdemona does shows her guilt to
Othello.

Iago's ruthless plan unfolds in the play's final two acts. Othello goes from trusting Desdemona
will never betray him to wanting proof of her adultery to justify killing her. “Good, good, the
justice of it pleases!” Othello replies when Iago advises he strangle Desdemona in her claimed
adulterous bed. (IV.i). “O Iago, the sadness of it, Iago!” Othello still loves his wife, but he uses
her qualities to be even more disturbed by her suspected infidelity: (IV.i) Jealous Othello plots to
assassinate Desdemona and Cassio with Iago. His "honest" friend Iago or his unfaithful wife are
lying to him. Othello realises he believed the wrong person after killing Desdemona. After
realising his mistake, he commits suicide rather than live in a world without integrity and
honesty.
Key Facts

Tone Shakespeare clearly views the events of the

play as tragic. He seems to view the marriage
between Desdemona and Othello as noble and
heroic, for the most part.

Setting (Time and Place) Late sixteenth century, during the wars
between Venice and Turkey.

Venice in Act I; the island of Cyprus

thereafter

Major Conflict Othello and Desdemona marry and

attempt to build a life together, despite
their differences in age, race, and
experience. Their marriage is sabotaged
by the envious Iago, who convinces
Othello that Desdemona is unfaithful.

Rising Action Iago tells the audience of his scheme, arranges

for Cassio to lose his position as lieutenant,
and gradually insinuates to Othello that
Desdemona is unfaithful.

Climax The climax occurs at the end of Act III, scene

iii, when Othello kneels with Iago and vows
not to change course until he has achieved
bloody revenge.

Falling Action Iago plants the handkerchief in Cassio’s room

and later arranges a conversation with Cassio,
which Othello watches and sees as “proof”
that Cassio and Desdemona have slept
together. Iago unsuccessfully attempts to kill
Cassio, and Othello smothers Desdemona
with a pillow. Emilia exposes Iago’s
deceptions, Othello kills himself, and Iago is
taken away to be tortured.

Theme The incompatibility of military heroism and

love; the danger of isolation

Motifs Sight and blindness; plants; animals; hell,

demons, and monsters

Symbols The handkerchief; the song “Willow”

 Foreshadowing Othello and Desdemona’s speeches about love
foreshadow the disaster to come; Othello’s
description of his past and of his wooing of
Desdemona foreshadow his suicide speech;
Desdemona’s “Willow” song and remarks to
Emilia in Act IV, scene iii, foreshadow her
death.

Character Analysis

Othello
After standing beneath Brabanzio's window, they use racist epithets to identify people. They
include “the Moor” (I.i.57), “the thick-lips” (I.i.66), “an old black ram” (I.i.88), and “a Barbary
horse” (I.i.113). Othello arrives early in the second scene, although we don't hear his name until
Act I, scene iii (I.iii.48). Later, Othello's ship will be the last of the three to arrive at Cyprus in
Act II, scene I he will remain apart while Cassio and Iago reportedly debate Desdemona in Act
IV, scene I and he will presume Cassio is killed without being present during the fight in Act V,
scene i. Iago may prey on Othello because he is an outsider.

Othello is a cultural and ethnic outcast in Venice, yet his military and leadership skills make him
an important element of civic society. The duke and senate want him, since Cassio says the
senate "sent about three several missions" to find Othello (I.ii.46). In his last address, Othello
thanks the Venetians for his "service" by giving him full martial and governmental control of
Cyprus (V.ii.348).

Othello's unique features attract Desdemona and Brabanzio, who are Othello's peers. Othello
assures the duke that Brabanzio is his friend. “[Desdemona's] father liked me, oft invited me, /
Still questioned me about my life / From year to year” (I.iii.127–129). - Othello's speech enthrals
others. “I imagine this narrative would win my daughter too,” the duke says in response to
Othello's stories of adventure wooing Desdemona (I.iii.170).
Iago

Shakespeare's most terrible villain, Iago, is fascinating because of his motiveless actions. In the
first scene, he criticises Othello for not making him lieutenant (I.i. 7–32). Iago states, “It is
considered abroad that 'twixt my sheets / He has done my office” in Act I, scene iii
(I.iii.369–370). In Act II, scene I, Iago claims he wants Desdemona "wife for wife" to avenge
Othello (II.i.286). Iago's acts are worsened by his lack of motivation. He enjoys hurting Othello,
Desdemona, Cassio, Roderigo, and Emilia.

Iago's manipulations of Roderigo are hilarious. He appreciates his skill and even winks at the
spectators. As joyful bystanders, we side with Iago when he's with Roderigo, but their
conversations indicate Iago's cowardice, which is revealed in the climactic scene when he kills
his wife (V.ii.231–242).

Iago dislikes women and may have killed Emilia. Readers believe Iago persecutes Othello
because of his homosexual yearning for the general. He loves Othello and enjoys delaying his
marriage.

Iago's skill to control others' desires makes him intriguing. Iago may steal Emilia's handkerchief
and divert her questions, inform Othello and know he won't be doubted, and tell the audience,
"And what's he then that claims I play the villain," knowing they'll laugh like a clown (II.iii.310).
Iago, the play's worst liar, tells everyone to trust, killing Othello.
Desdemona

Desdemona is more believable and well-rounded than critics think. Desdemona's initial speech
("Oh noble father, / I do discern here a split responsibility" [I.iii.179–180]) and her sharp wrath
when Othello slaps her ("I have not deserved this" [IV.i.236]) disprove her stereotype as weak
and subservient. Critics who call Desdemona's slightly weird bawdy jesting with Iago in Act II,
scene I an interpolation or vulgarity neglect the fact that she is young, sexual, and recently
married. In Act III, scene iii, lines 61–84, she uses the same chiding, almost malicious humour to
convince Othello to forgive Cassio.

Desdemona is servile, especially when she takes blame for her murder. Emilia asked, “O, who
hath done this deed?” Desdemona concludes, "Nobody, I myself." Goodbye. Farewell”
(V.ii.133–134). So, Desdemona is both a self-effacing, loving wife and a forceful, independent
character. After defending her marriage to her father in Act I, scene iii, Desdemona may be
forced to defend her fidelity to her husband. Midway through the play, she must fight to convince
Othello that she is not too independent. Desdemona is smothered by a pillow in her bridal
bedding, symbolising how her devotion is suffocated. Desdemona has met or exceeded such
objectives since her first lines. Othello silences Desdemona's powerful speech.

Sadly, Desdemona knows she will die. She wants Emilia to lay her bridal blankets on the bed and
bury her in them if she dies first. The final time we see Desdemona, she sings a song she learnt
from her mother's maid: “She was in love; and he proved wild / And did desert her. She died
singing her willow song. The music tonight/Will not leave my head" (IV.iii.27–30). Desdemona,
like the audience, watches her jealous husband go wild. Desdemona forgives her husband despite
her insistence that she is "guiltless" (V.ii.133). Her forgiveness may help the viewer forgive
Othello.

Emilia

Emilia appears to be her husband Iago's puppet. Iago resolves that “my wife must move for
Cassio to her mistress” (2.3.) to set up the appearance of inappropriate behaviour between Cassio
and Desdemona, and Emilia arranges a meeting between them and pushes her mistress to
campaign for Cassio. “My wayward spouse hath a hundred times / Wooed me to steal it,” Emilia
says after Desdemona drops her handkerchief (3.3.). She is only slightly suspicious of Iago's
plans and accepts his hesitation to tell her. These actions show Emilia is first passive or
cooperative in Iago's machinations. He often insults her, such when he says, “It is a typical
thing... to have a foolish wife” (3.3).

As the story unfolds, Emilia shows a keen awareness of how husbands may harm wives. She tells
Desdemona that “they devour us hungerly, and when they are full / They belch us” (3.4.) and
tells her mistress, “I do suppose it is their husbands' faults / If spouses do fall” (4.3.). “If you
think other / Erase your thought,” Emilia tells Othello, showing boldness and self-confidence
(4.2.). Emilia shouts, “Thou dost belie her and thou art a devil,” as Othello kills Desdemona
(5.2.). Emilia boldly declares, “I'll make thee known / Despite I lost twenty lives,” while being
alone with a murderer who may kill her to cover up his crime (5.2.).

Emilia declares, "your reports have set the murder on," after realising her husband's role in
Desdemona's killing (5.2.184). Emilia says, "I shall speak as liberal as the north," despite Iago's
threats (5.2.). Iago's desperate stabbing kills her for speaking out. Emilia, like Desdemona, is
killed by her husband for telling the truth. Emilia dies to atone for her role in Iago's misdeeds,
but Desdemona's death is an innocent victim's murder. Emilia helped Iago convince Othello of
Desdemona's guilt, and while she cannot reverse her death, she can testify to the truth. Emilia
dies thinking that her final boldness will redeem her previous silence and obedience: “So come
my soul to bliss, as I speak true” (5.2.), but her death also illustrates that women in the play have
no guarantee of happiness.

Micheal Cassio

Inadvertently becoming Iago's pawn, Cassio advances the plot. Cassio's thoughts, feelings, and
objectives are rarely disclosed, but his actions set the stage for Iago's plan. “He hath a person and
a smooth disposition / To be suspected, framed to make ladies false,” Iago says about Cassio
(1.3.). If Cassio wasn't attractive, Desdemona's affair with him would be less likely, making
Iago's plot harder to execute. Cassio's behaviour with women endangers him and Desdemona. He
often flirts with gallantry and civility. Iago says, "Ay, smile upon her, do!" as Cassio touches
Desdemona's hand. I'll give you in your courtship (2.1.).

Cassio is honourable: when Iago tries to get him to utter obscene things about Desdemona, he
says, “An tempting eye—and yet methinks right modest” (2.3.). Cassio laments, "Ah, I have lost
my reputation!" (2.3.). Cassio is naïve and trusting, either because he is Florentine and not
Venetian or because he lacks the military experience of other male characters. Cassio, like
Desdemona, is innocent and trusts others to recognise his virtue. Cassio, unlike Desdemona,
changes. By the end of the play, he realises Iago killed Desdemona and helps Othello see his
betrayal. Ludovico tells Cassio to "control Cyprus" (5.2) and punish Iago. The unexpected
betrayals and brutality demonstrated by other characters have likely made Cassio more cautious
but maybe a better leader.