Othello Commentary

Othello Commentary provides a comprehensive description of every act with

explanations and translations for all important quotes.
Act I. Scene I. - Venice. A Street.
Roderigo to Iago: "Thou told'st me thou didst hold him in thy hate."
Iago, a soldier under Othello's command is arguing with Roderigo, a wealthy
Venetian. Roderigo has paid Iago a considerable sum of money to spy on Othello
for him, since he wishes to take Othello's girlfriend, Desdemona as his own.
Roderigo fears Iago has not been telling him enough and that this proves Iago's
real loyalty is to Othello not him. Iago tells us of his hatred towards Othello for
choosing Cassio as his new lieutenant and not him as he had expected.
To regain Roderigo's trust, Iago and Roderigo inform Brabantio, Desdemona's
father of her relationship with Othello, the "Moor" which enrages Brabantio
into sending parties out into the night to apprehend Othello for what must
obviously be in Brabantio's eyes, an abuse of his daughter by Othello...
The play begins at night in a street of Venice. Roderigo, a prosperous Venetian
Gentleman is arguing with Iago, a soldier.
He explains that Iago has had his purse (been paid by him) to keep him informed of
Desdemona's activities, a women whom Roderigo is in love with (made clearer later
in the text).
He complains that it angers him that Iago has not taken his duty to Roderigo seriously
enough and instead has acted as if he owned Roderigo's purse (wealth) "As if the
strings were thine [as if the strings were yours]," (Line 3) not telling him immediately
that Desdemona had married Othello (Lines 1-5).
Iago complains that Roderigo is not listening to him. In response, Roderigo says he
thought Iago hated Othello who like Desdemona is yet to be mentioned by name.
By implication, Roderigo is trying to figure out whose side Iago is on, his or Othello's
for not informing him immediately of Desdemona's marriage.
Roderigo says "Thou told'st me thou didst hold him [Othello] in thy hate" (You told
me you hated him), (Line 7).
Iago replies that Roderigo should "Despise me if I do not" explaining now his hatred
of the still unnamed Othello (Line 8) .
Iago explains that he was expecting to be made Othello's lieutenant since he knows
that he is experienced or as Iago says "I know my price [worth]," (Line 11) but after
dodging the issue Othello told him that he had already chosen his new officer (Line
16).
This angers Iago immensely since his replacement is a "great arithmetician," by the
name of Michael Cassio, a Florentine (Line 19).

What does this man who has "never set a squadron in the field, / Nor the division of a
battle knows" have that Iago does not? (Line 22).
In Iago's eyes this man is a fool, knowing little "More than a spinster;" adding that
unless it is in a book, this man knows nothing of war unlike the battle-hardened Iago
(Line 24).
Yet this man who is "mere prattle, without practice," has been judged better than Iago
and made lieutenant instead of him (Line 26).
But, adds a very disgruntled Iago, Cassio "had the election [choice]; / And I-of whom
his [Othello's] eyes had seen the proof [experience] / At Rhodes, at Cypress, and on
other grounds [battlefields]" missed out (Line 28).
Iago finishes his loathing by grumbling that he must remain "his Moorship's ancient"
a lower position in the army (Line 33).
Roderigo now answers, by saying he would rather be his hangman (executioner),
(Line 34) but Iago says this is no remedy (solution) for his problems (Lines 34-36).
Iago explains that "Preferment [promotion] goes by letter and affection [who you
know and favoritism], / Not by the old gradation [working up the ranks], where each
second / Stood heir to the first [each man would eventually succeed his superior]"
(Lines 35-39).
Iago now adds that by his service, he must still "love the Moor" who is of course
Othello (Line 39).
Iago now tells us his views on the order of things, explaining that he must appear to
act "for love and duty," (Line 59) when in reality he is pursuing his own peculiar ends
(Lines 40-64).
Iago now gains Roderigo's trust by suggesting they wake up Desdemona's father and
tell him what has happened (Lines 68- 72).
Soon after, Roderigo and Iago make a racket outside the Brabantio's house to awaken
Brabantio, Desdemona's father and a Senator, warning Brabantio of "thieves!"
repeatedly (Line 80).
Getting Brabantio's attention, Iago tells Brabantio that "sir, you are robb'd;" (Line 87)
Iago seeming to deliberately enjoy upsetting Brabantio by continuously using emotive
language and imagery to rile up Brabantio, explaining quite crudely and famously that
"your daughter and the Moor [Othello] are now making the beast with two backs (are
intimate)" (Line 116).
Brabantio naturally calls Iago a villain.
Roderigo explains that Desdemona on this "this odd-even and dull-watch o' the night,"
(odd night), (Line 124) with just the help of a "knave [lowly person] of common hire,"
(Line 126), and a gondolier (venetian boat), left Brabantio's house to run "To the gross
[disgusting] clasps of a lascivious Moor,- [Othello]" (Line 127) whom Brabantio
knows, explaining that both he and Iago have committed no wrongs since Brabantio
will soon learn that what they say is true (Lines 120-141).

Brabantio now grabs a taper (torch) to find out if this is true and Iago decides to make
a sly exit, whilst Brabantio discovering the truth, decides to feel sorry for himself, that
he has to suffer in his eyes such a terrible fate as to lose his daughter to a "Moor."
The scene ends with Brabantio organizing "special officers of night" to find his
daughter, telling them to bring their weapons and thanking Roderigo for his pains or
troubles (Line 183).
Act I. Scene II. - Another Street.
Iago now speaks with Othello, the man he angered Brabantio against earlier by
implying Othello had abused his daughter, Desdemona. Iago lies that Roderigo
and not himself, was responsible for angering Brabantio against Othello, telling
Othello that he should watch out for Brabantio's men who are looking for him.
Othello decides not to hide, since he believes his good name will stand him in
good stead.
A group of men now greet Othello, Iago warning Othello to flee, but we learn it is
Cassio, Othello's lieutenant who has arrived, telling Othello that he has been
called away over some matter in Cypress. We learn that Othello has married
Desdemona.
Brabantio and Roderigo arrive, Brabantio accusing Othello of using magic on his
daughter. Othello stops a fight before it can happen but Othello is called away on
the Cypress matter to the anger of Brabantio who wants justice for what he
believes Othello has done to his fair Desdemona.
Iago is now speaking to Othello; the very man he told Brabantio had stolen his
daughter earlier. Iago explains to Othello that "in the trade of war I have slain [killed]
men, / Yet do I hold it very stuff o' the conscience / To do no contriv'd murder: I lack
iniquity / Sometimes to do me service" adding that "Nine or ten times / I had thought
to have yerk'd [lashed out, hit] him here under the ribs" (Line 1).
By this, Iago means that in his profession as a soldier he has often killed men, but he
considers it very important for his good conscience that he commit nothing that could
be seen or "contriv'd" as murder explaining that this sometimes is a weakness for him,
but so angered was he that Roderigo spoke badly of Othello (when we know it really
was Iago) that he almost forgot himself and wanted to hit Roderigo under the ribs nine
or ten times in punishment.
Othello is now introduced to us with the words "'Tis better as it is" meaning it is better
that Iago did nothing (Line 6).
Iago now explains to Othello how Roderigo "spoke such scurvy and provoking
[insulting] terms / Against your honour / That, with the little godliness I have, / I did
full hard forbear him" (did not easily or happily listen to him), (Line 8).
Iago now asks Othello if he is married yet, assuring Othello that Desdemona's father
will try to have his daughter divorce Othello or create as much trouble as he can
within the powers of the law (Lines 12-16).
Othello replies "Let him do his spite: / My services which I have done the signiory /
Shall out-tongue his [Brabantio's] complaints" by which Othello means let Brabantio
(Desdemona's father) do his worst since his services as a soldier will outspeak any
criticism of him for marrying Desdemona (Line 18).

Othello also adds that knowing boasting is an honor, when he must do so, he will
fetch his life and though he may be a Moor, he comes from a line of Moor royalty
which will stand him in good favor adding that he loves Desdemona and would not
confine this "unhoused free condition" for all the sea (Line 26).
Othello:
'Tis yet to know, / Which when I know that boasting is an honour / I shall promulgate,
I fetch my life and being / From men of royal siege, and my demerits / May speak
unbonneted to as proud a fortune / As this that I have reach'd; for know, Iago, / But
that I love the gentle Desdemona, / I would not my unhoused free condition / Put into
circumscription and confine / For the sea's worth. (Lines 19-28)
Othello now notices some lights asking "But, look! what lights come yond?" (But,
look! what lights come closer?), (Line 28).
Iago warns the trusting Othello that "Those are the raised [angered] father [Brabantio]
and his friends:" adding that it would be wise for Othello to make a quick exit (Line
29).
Othello, in an insight into his character says: "Not I; I must be found:" explaining that
"My parts, my title, and my perfect soul / Shall manifest [justify / stand] me rightly"
asking "Is it they?" (Lines 30-32).
Iago tells us it isn't, "By Janus, I think no" and Cassio and several officers bearing
torches now appear (Line 33).
We quickly learn from Cassio that the Duke greets Othello and requires his immediate
appearance, Cassio explaining that the issue is "Something from Cyprus, as I may
divine [figure out]" (Line 39).
He adds that it involves "a business of some heat [urgency / importance];" explaining
that "the galleys / Have sent a dozen sequent messengers / This very night at one
another's heels," and that several men are discussing matters with the Duke already
(Lines 36-46).
We also learn that the senate sent "several quests" to search out Othello's whereabouts
and so we get some idea of Othello's importance as a soldier (Line 46).
Iago and Cassio talk and Cassio learns from Iago that Othello has "boarded a land
carrack;" saying "If it prove lawful prize, he's made forever" (Line 50), by which Iago
means Othello has wed Desdemona and if the marriage is not revoked, Othello is set
for life since he is married.
Cassio does not understand and Othello enters when another "troop" or man meets
Othello (Lines 52-54).
Iago says it is Brabantio and warns Othello that he comes with hostile intentions or as
Iago puts it, "General, be advis'd; / He [Brabantio] comes to bad intent" (Line 55).
Roderigo announces that he has found the "Moor", Brabantio calling him a "thief!"
and both sides (Brabantio, Roderigo and officers and Othello, Iago and Cassio) draw
their swords on each other.
Iago tells Roderigo that "I am for you" meaning he wants to fight Roderigo but
Othello stops the fight in another insight to his character. He says "Keep up your

bright swords, for the dew will rust them" adding that Brabantio whom he calls "Good
signior," out of respect will command Othello more from his years (age / seniority)
than his weapons (Line 60).
Brabantio now insults Othello suggesting Othello used magic, immobilizing drugs or
minerals to enchant his daughter Desdemona who until now completely shunned
marriage even to the most wealthy and eligible men of their nation.
After insulting Othello's race; "the sooty bosom / Of such a thing as thou [you,
Othello];" (Line 70), Brabantio orders his guards to hold Othello whom he intends to
punish, telling them to subdue Othello at his peril if he resists (Lines 63-80).
Othello tells the guards to stop. He will not resist; if this were going to be a fight,
Othello would know it without such prompters he explains.
He also diplomatically asks Brabantio where he should go to answer these
accusations.
Brabantio answers prison until "fit time / Of law and course of direct session / Call
thee [you] to answer " (a court trial), (Line 86) and now Othello asks how the Duke
who was called him for a meeting will be "satisfied," if he goes to prison as Brabantio
wishes and not to the Duke immediately (Lines 87-90).
An officer confirms the Duke's urgent request and Brabantio explains that he does not
believe the Duke would be in council at this time of night, adding that his injustice is
great indeed, saying no one can feel this wrong for if the Duke ignores this matter,
"Bond-slaves and pagans shall our statesmen be" (bond slaves and pagans both lowly
people will be our statesmen / if nothing is done about my daughter our society will
decay), (Line 98).
Act I. Scene III. - A Council Chamber. The Duke and Senators sitting at a table.
Officers attending.
Cassio: "The Moor is of a free and open nature, / That thinks men honest that but
seem to be so, / And will as tenderly be led by the nose / As asses are."
The Duke is in council with several senators discussing their enemy, the Turks
(Turkish people). Othello not Brabantio is first greeted by the Duke in an
indication of just how well regarded Othello is by the Duke.
Brabantio complains to the Duke that Othello bewitched his daughter and had
intimate relations with her. Othello confirms that he and Desdemona are
married. Desdemona is brought in to settle the matter, Othello meanwhile
explains how he and Desdemona fell in love. Desdemona confirms this and the
Duke advises Brabantio that he is better off to accept the marriage than to
complain and change nothing.
The Duke now orders Othello to Cypress to fight the Turks, with Desdemona to
follow, accompanied by the trusted Iago. Roderigo despairs that his quest for
Desdemona is over, but Iago tells him not to give up and earn money instead,
soon Desdemona will bore of Othello.
Alone, Iago reveals his intention to continue using Roderigo for money and his
hatred of Othello (Othello picked Cassio and not Iago for his lieutenant). He
explains that his plan is to suggest to Othello that Cassio is sleeping with his wife.

The Duke and several senators are discussing reports of the Turkish fleet strengths.
The Duke believes their enemy numbers one hundred and forty galleys, the First
Senators' reports suggest one hundred and seven, the Second Senator believes it is two
hundred (Lines 1-12).
A sailor from one of their galleys brings a report suggesting the Turkish forces will
head for Rhodes and further discussion follows as to whether this really is the case
(Lines 13-32).
A Messenger soon arrives; suggesting the Turk's goal is Cyprus (Lines 33-47).
Brabantio, Othello, Iago, Roderigo and several "Officers" arrive.
The Duke immediately greets Othello, warmly saying "Valiant Othello, we must
straight employ you / Against the general enemy Ottoman" (Valiant Othello, we must
use you at once against the Ottoman enemy), (Line 48).
After greeting Othello, the Duke greets Brabantio telling him that he did not at first
see him and mentioning that he could have used his help tonight in his war council
(Line 50).
Brabantio now lets loose his "particular grief" (Line 55) or dispute with Othello
(Lines 53-56). He explains that his daughter in his eyes is dead being "abus'd
[abused], stoln' [stolen] from me, and corrupted / By spells and medicines" and the
Duke asks who is responsible (Line 60).
Brabantio explains that the man responsible is "this Moor;" Othello who is now
standing before him because of the Duke's special mandate for state affairs which has
brought him here (Lines 70-72).
Othello answers to the Duke by first addressing the Duke and Brabantio as "Most
potent, grave, and reverend signiors, / My very noble and approv'd good masters,"
explaining that it is true, he has taken away Desdemona and he has indeed married her
(Line 77).
Othello explains how he has seen no service other than war asking as he says "by your
gracious patience," (Line 89) that he may tell his tale of how he met Desdemona
calling it "my whole course of love;" in which he intends explaining "What
conjuration [conjuring], and what mighty magic, / For such proceeding I am charg'd
withal [with], / I won his daughter" (what conjuring and what mighty magic that I
have been accused of did I use to win Desdemona), (Lines 89-92).
Brabantio is convinced of foul play, explaining that his daughter who "Blush'd at
herself; " (Line 96) could not possibly happily love "what she fear'd to look on!" or
the Moor Othello (Line 98).
The Duke argues there is no proof for spells or witchcraft and at the First Senators
questioning, Othello explains how Desdemona fell in love with him (Lines 110-113).
Othello asks for Desdemona to brought to them to tell her side of the story, the Duke
agreeing (Lines 115-119), (Lines 115-119).
Othello tells Iago to help fetch Desdemona and in the meanwhile explains his
romance.

Othello explains that "Her father [Brabantio] lov'd me;" and "oft [often] invited me;"
to talk and "Still question'd [asked]" Othello about the story of his life from year to
year across the many sieges and battles Othello had fought yet Desdemona
increasingly "with a greedy ear [increasing curiosity]" would devour his stories
listening ever more inquisitively (Lines 128-149).
The two came to share feelings, Othello saying that Desdemona at the end of his
stories "gave me for my pains a world of sighs:" (Line 159), wishing she had not
heard Othello's stories yet wishing "That heaven had made her such a man;" as
Othello (Line 163).
Othello adds that Desdemona told him "if I [Othello] had a friend that lov'd [loved]
her, / I should but teach him how to tell my story, / And that would woo [court / win
over] her" (Line 165).
On this hint, Othello acted, explaining that "She lov'd me for the dangers I had
pass'd, / And I lov'd her that she did pity them" (Line 168) explaining that this is the
only witchcraft he used and seeing Desdemona, tells the Duke to ask her for proof
(Lines 129-170).
The Duke answers that he thinks this story would win his "daughter too", telling
Brabantio to make the best of this tangled matter (Line 173) adding, "Men do their
broken weapons rather use / Than their bare hands" (Men often fight against what
they cannot fix rather than seek obvious alternatives), by which The Duke is hinting
that Brabantio would be wise to accept that his daughter is now married), (Line 173).
Brabantio wants Desdemona to speak, pledging destruction on his own head if she
was half the "wooer," (if she loved Othello) (Line 176).
Desdemona now tells Brabantio that what Othello said is true. She loves her father but
has duties of love to her new husband as well (Lines 181-189).
Brabantio realizing he cannot change anything with the Duke is angry saying he
would rather adopt a child (by his own will) than get one (a son-in-law). Nonetheless
he reluctantly accepts the situation and asks the Duke to now turn his attention to
matters of state (Lines 189-196).
The Duke says "When remedies are past, the griefs are ended" (Line 202) adding that
"To mourn a mischief that is past and gone / Is the next way to draw new mischief on"
(to mourn an unpleasant event that has already past and cannot be changed is the next
way to bring a new mischief or problem on), (Line 204).
The Duke urges Brabantio accept the marriage, wisely remarking that "The robb'd
[robbed] that smiles steals something from the thief; / He robs himself that spends a
bootless grief" (the robbed who smiles, steals something from the thief, while he who
spends his time in unnecessary grief is the one who is truly robbed), (Line 208).
Returning to the Turkish problem, the Duke sends Othello by ship to Cyprus to fight
the Turkish fleet, we can presume are already at sea (Lines 210-240).
After some discussion, Desdemona who neither Othello nor Brabantio want at
Brabantio's house is at her own urging allowed to follow Othello to Cyprus under the
protection of Iago whom Othello trusts (Lines 248-288).
The Duke leaves, trying to console Brabantio that "If virtue no delighted beauty lack, /
Your son-in-law is far more fair than black" (Line 292).

The First Senator wishes Othello well, saying "Adieu [good-bye], brave Moor!"
telling Othello to "use Desdemona well" (Line 293) and Brabantio darkly warns
Othello to "Look to her, Moor, if thou [you] hast [have] eyes to see: / She has deceiv'd
[tricked] her father, and may thee [you as well]" (Line 293).
Othello departs with his wife telling her he has but an hour to spend with her before
he leaves, leaving Iago alone now with Roderigo.
Roderigo wishes to drown himself in despair that he will never have the hand of
Desdemona since she is now married to Othello (Lines 304-322). Iago tells him this is
ridiculous and encourages Roderigo to believe all is not lost. Iago continuously tells
Roderigo to make money.
These Moors, Iago explains are changeable in nature; what will taste "as luscious as
locusts," will soon be "as bitter as coloquintida" adding that Desdemona's affections
will also soon change; she will again favor youth, adding how silly it would be for
Roderigo to drown himself instead of trying to win Desdemona's affections (Lines
338-370).
Iago once again tells Roderigo to make money explaining once more his hatred of
Othello, the "Moor" when Roderigo asks for reassurance (Lines 370-380) and
Roderigo leaves a new man, pledging to not kill himself and to sell all his land (Lines
381-388).
With Roderigo gone, we learn Iago's real plans...
He will make Roderigo which he calls his fool, his own purse or source of money
which he will use both for sport and profit adding that he does indeed hate the Moor.
Cassio decides that since Othello trusts him, his plan is likely to succeed. First he
intends to suggest to Othello that Cassio is "too familiar [sleeping] with his [Othello's]
wife:" (Line 402).
Iago adds that "The Moor [Othello] is of a free and open nature, / That thinks men
honest that but seem to be so, / And will as tenderly be led by the nose / As asses are"
(The Moor Othello is a free and open, trusting man who thinks people are honest if
they appear to be and will easily be led by the nose or fooled as donkeys are), (Line
405).
Iago intends to manipulate Othello just like an ass (donkey)...

Act II. Scene I. - A Sea-port Town in Cyprus. An open place near the Quay.
Several weeks later in Cypress, Montano and several others are awaiting
Othello's arrival by bark or ship. We learn that a terrible storm has largely
battered and destroyed the Turkish fleet, which no longer poses a threat to
Cypress. Unfortunately there are fears that this same storm drowned Othello as
well. Montano reveals his high praise of Othello, which is shared by many.
Cassio, who has arrived, sings Desdemona's praises.
A ship is spotted but it is Desdemona's and Iago's ship not Othello's. Iago
suspects Cassio loves Desdemona and slyly uses it to his advantage. Iago reveals
that another reason for his hatred of Othello is because he suspects Emilia his
wife, may be having an affair with him.

Iago tells Roderigo that he still has a chance with Desdemona but Cassio who
Desdemona could love is in the way. Killing Cassio will leave Desdemona to
Roderigo. Othello finally arrives to everyone's great happiness. Iago decides to
tell Othello that Cassio is having an affair with Desdemona's so Iago will be
rewarded whilst Cassio will be punished.
The scene begins with Montano and two officers discussing recent events. We learn
from their conversation that several weeks have passed, the sea at the moment is a
"high-wrought flood;" with not a sail visible on the horizon (Line 2).
This is important since Montano is looking for sails, which would mark the return of
Othello's ship.
Montano explains that the weather has been rough recently, so much so that he says
"Methinks the wind hath [has] spoke aloud at land; / A fuller blast [stronger wind]
ne'er [never] shook our battlements;" (Line 5).
We learn from the Second Gentleman that this rough wind resulted in the break up or
"segregation" of the Turkish invasion fleet, so much so that Montano believes the
Turkish fleet must have all "drown'd;" if they did not find shelter, since he believes the
storm would have been impossible to bear out at sea without shelter (Lines 9-20).
A Third Gentleman now announces that the Turkish fleet has been so "bang'd" up by
the storm that their "designment" or invasion has failed and he mentions that "a noble
ship of Venice / Hath [has] seen a grievous wrack and sufferance [much destruction] /
On most part [most] of their fleet" (Lines 20-24)
We learn this news came from Cassio, whose ship made it safely to harbor, whilst
Othello in "full commission" is on his way to Cyprus (Line 29). Montano welcomes
this, adding that Othello is "a worthy governor" to replace him.
The Third Gentleman has more news. Cassio is saddened because though he is happy
the Turks were pushed back, the seas were violent and foul when Cassio last saw
Othello at sea (Lines 31-35).
Montano now shows his deep respect for Othello, explaining that "I have serv'd him,
and the man commands / Like a full soldier" (Line 35) adding that they should all
scan the seas until they cannot tell the difference between sea and sky to find Othello's
ship (Line 39).
Montano and company now pray that Othello will make it to Cypress and Cassio now
enters, telling us "O! let the heavens / Give him [Othello] defence against the
elements, / For I have lost him [Othello] on a dangerous sea" (Line 45).
Montano asks if Othello is "well shipp'd?" or aboard a strong ship. Cassio assures
Montano that his "bark [a type of ship] is stoutly timber'd [strongly timbered or
sturdily built]," and his "pilot" (helmsman) expert and well experienced. As such,
Othello's chances of surviving the storm are better than average (Lines 46-47).
At this point a sail is spotted, and amidst the excitement that it might be Othello,
Montano asks if Othello has a wife, learning that he does.
Cassio describes Desdemona in flowing terms saying Othello "has achiev'd a maid /
That paragons description and wild fame; / One that excels the quirks of blazoning
pens, / And in th' essential vesture of creation / Does tire the ingener" (Lines 61-64).

We learn now that the boat that has put in or arrived is that of Iago, not Othello,
Cassio adding that this boat arrived quickly despite the storms because the ship
carried the fair Desdemona (Lines 65-81).
Montano, still not knowing who Desdemona is, is now told that Desdemona is
Othello's wife.
Desdemona, Emilia, Roderigo and Attendants arrive, Desdemona thanking Cassio for
his welcome and asking of her husband Othello. She learns that he has not yet arrived
and Cassio now kisses Iago's wife Emilia.
Cassio explains that Iago should not worry, he is merely being polite to which Iago
replies that if Emilia gave Cassio her lips as much as Iago receives her tongue or is
verbally attacked, "You'd have enough" (you would have had enough), (Lines 95102).
Desdemona now fears more and more for her husband whilst Iago attempts to distract
her with increasingly offensive riddles (Lines 104-164).
Cassio's attempts to make up for Iago's offensive comments, earn Iago's suspicion,
such that Iago in an aside (private speech revealing a character's thoughts to the
audience), suspects Cassio may have feelings for Desdemona, feelings he can use
against Cassio.
Iago explains that Cassio "takes her by the palm;" suggesting Cassio likes
Desdemona, adding that "with as little a web as this will I ensnare as great a fly as
Cassio" (with as small a web as Cassio's liking for Desdemona will I ensnare as large
a fly as Cassio), (Line 170).
A trumpet is heard and this signifies Othello's safe return from sea. Othello greets his
wife saying "O my fair [pretty] warrior!" (Line 186), the two rejoicing in their reunion
(Lines 184-212). We also learn from Othello that the Turkish fleet have indeed
drowned at sea (Line 205).
Iago and Roderigo are now alone. Iago tells Roderigo again that he has a chance with
Desdemona, the Moor only won her heart with fantastic lies anyway (a reference to
Othello's war stories mentioned earlier in Act I).
There is however a problem. Cassio is now in a good position to steal Desdemona's
heart, adding that "the knave [derogatory term] is handsome, young," and has all the
qualities Desdemona would value in a man (Lines 214-255).
Roderigo does not believe it; Desdemona is "full of most blessed [virtuous] condition"
(Line 256).
Iago argues if this was truly the case, Desdemona would never have married the Moor
and he tells Roderigo to trust him, he brought Roderigo out from Venice; he can win
her for him now (Lines 256-264).
Iago has a new plan. Roderigo shall anger Cassio to a fight, a man who according to
Iago is ill tempered and likely to fight. He tells Roderigo not to worry, he will be right
behind him to back him up.
Thus by killing Cassio, Roderigo can again reach his destination (the heart of
Desdemona) by the shortest possible route rather than fail completely due to Cassio's

presence. Convinced, Roderigo leaves whilst Iago attends to further business (Lines
264-296).
In another aside, Iago makes clear to us his real thoughts on all this. Iago does not
doubt Cassio loves Desdemona, saying "That Cassio loves her, I do well believe it;"
adding "That she loves him, 'tis [it is] apt, and of great credit:" explaining that he
doubts the Moor (Othello) will be a good husband for Desdemona (Line 298-303).
Iago also adds that he loves Desdemona but not out of "absolute lust,-" but because
she will help Iago bring about Othello's downfall (Line 304).
Interestingly, Iago now mentions another reason for hating Othello, he fears he may
be sleeping with his wife, Emilia, adding that he will not be happy until he is even,
"wife for wife;" (Line 311) or failing this, Iago will put Othello into a rage so strong
even judgment will not cure it.
Iago will tell Othello that Cassio has been having an affair with his wife Desdemona
which shall lead to Othello thanking, loving and rewarding Iago whilst allowing Iago
to also punish Cassio whom he also believes Emilia, his wife, has been unfaithful with
(Lines 312-324).
Iago:
I stand accountant for as great a sin,- / But partly led to diet my revenge, / For that I
do suspect the lusty Moor [Othello] / Hath [has] leap'd into my seat; the thought
whereof [of] / Doth [does] like a poisonous mineral gnaw my inwards [eat me up];
(Lines 305-309)
Act II. Scene II - A Street.
A Herald announces celebration that "our noble general Othello!" has defeated the
Turkish fleet, calling on all to celebrate this great triumph and also to celebrate
Othello's "nuptial" or wedding to the fair Desdemona.
Act II. Scene III. - A Hall in the Castle.
Iago: "I'll pour this pestilence into his [Othello's] ear...."
Othello turns in for the night entrusting his guard to Cassio who delegates this
duty to the "trusted" Iago. Iago learns more of Cassio's high regard for
Desdemona and Iago manipulates Cassio into drinking too much since he is
certain Cassio will do something he will regret.
With Cassio gone, Iago tells Montano of Cassio's drinking problem turning
Montano's previously high regard for Cassio into dust. Iago also tells Roderigo to
attack Cassio. This happens, and Cassio wounds Roderigo and then Montano
who was trying to break up the fight. Othello is now awake and Cassio's name
ruined.
Othello learns from Iago that Cassio started the fight. Othello though he loves
Cassio, has no choice but to demote him from his position as his lieutenant. Next
Iago comforts Cassio by suggesting he speak with Desdemona who could put in a
good word for him with Othello.
Iago comforts a wounded Roderigo, telling him he has won by ruining Cassio's
name. Iago has his wife Emilia ensure Desdemona and Cassio will talk so as Iago

says, Othello can see his wife talking with Cassio, allowing Iago to convince
Othello that Desdemona is being unfaithful...
Othello decides to turn in for the night entrusting Michael Cassio to guard him. Cassio
assures Othello that he has entrusted this duty to Iago, a man Othello agrees is "most
honest" and Othello wishes Cassio goodnight and beckons Desdemona towards him
(Line 6).
Othello: "Come, my dear love, / The purchase made, the fruits are to ensue; / That
profit's yet to come 'twixt me and you. Good night" (Come my dear, the purchase or
my marriage to you has been made, the fruits or your intimacy Desdemona are to
follow. The profits or joy of this are yet to come tonight between me and you.
Goodnight), (Line 8).
With Othello and Desdemona departed, Iago greets Cassio. Cassio welcomes Iago,
telling him "we must to the watch" by which he means they must begin their duties of
guarding Othello.
Iago replies "Not this hour lieutenant;" (Line 12), saying that it is not even ten o'clock
and explaining that Othello has "cast us thus early" or sent them off so they he may be
intimate with Desdemona.
Cassio agrees, remarking that "She's a most exquisite lady" (Line 18), Iago crudely
replying "And, I'll warrant her, full of game" (and, I'm sure, full of game), (Line 19).
Cassio agrees, singing Desdemona's praises with remarks that she is "a most fresh and
delicate creature" (Line 21) and a woman with an "inviting eye;" yet also "right
modest [modest]" and in total, best described as "perfection" (Line 28).
Iago now closes this line of conversation by wishing Othello and Desdemona
"happiness to their sheets!" (Line 29) and now beckons Cassio to some wine with
him. Cassio initially rejects him but eventually Iago wins him over (Line 33-49).
Iago now alone again, lets us in on his plans....
Iago says that if he can get Cassio to drink but one more cup on top of what he has
already drunk, Iago is sure Cassio will become "full of quarrel and offence" (rowdy /
violent), as Iago's young mistress' dog (Line 53).
Iago now hopes that Cassio will be moved to some action, which will "offend the isle"
or upset the island's inhabitants (Lines 50-65).
Cassio now returns with Montano to Iago and is drinking quite freely, Iago
encouraging this with song (Lines 72-76 and 92-100). Cassio is very impressed with
Iago's songs and eager to convince Iago that he is not drunk but still sober. Cassio
again leaves (Lines 101-122).
Iago is now alone with Montano. He makes full use of this to suggest to Montano that
Cassio is frequently drunk requiring drink often and fearing Othello puts too much
trust in him, fearing that Cassio could "shake this island" or do something terrible
(Lines 127-141).
Montano seems convinced. Perhaps Othello cannot see the faults in Cassio or by
Othello's good nature only prizes the good in Cassio ignoring his problems? Montano
wonders aloud (Lines 138-141).

Roderigo now enters and Iago tells Roderigo to go after Cassio saying "I pray you,
after the lieutenant; go" (Line 142).
Montano is now totally convinced of Cassio's weakness saying it is such a pity "the
noble Moor / Should hazard [risk] such a place as his own second [in command] /
With one of an ingraft infirmity [fundamental weakness];" (Line 143).
Iago replies that he loves Cassio and would do much to help Cassio out of his "evil"
or drinking problem, and cries of "'Help! Help!'" are now heard (Lines 148-150).
Cassio enters, driving Roderigo into view, both still fighting. Montano ties to stop the
fight but the clearly drunk Cassio succeeds in striking Roderigo (Lines 150-154).
Montano tries to intervene and is himself hit by Cassio for his troubles when Montano
tells Cassio "you're drunk" (Lines 155-158).
Iago now cries out that Montano, the governor of this isle, has been wounded, saying
with quite likely relish that, "You [Cassio] will be sham'd [shamed] for ever" (Line
164).
Due to a bell being rung, the ensuing noise wakes Othello who asks what is going
on... Montano explains that "'Zounds! I bleed still; I am hurt to death" (Line 166).
Othello tells everyone to hold for their lives or stop and Iago repeats this reminding
everyone that the general (Othello) is speaking. In this way we can assume Iago is
allying himself with Othello to further hide his involvement and gain favor with
Othello...
Othello now asks what has come of his own people, asking have they now turned into
Turks, a question which would mean have they lost their minds like the enemy?
(Lines 170-180).
Iago now stirs things up further by pointing out the great dishonor done towards
Othello by this fight waking the general and his wife from their peaceful sleep (Lines
181-189).
Othello now asks Cassio what came over him, Cassio saying nothing.
Next Othello asks why Montano would risk his deserved and earned reputation by
fighting in as street brawl.
Montano explains his innocence, explaining that Iago can support this (Lines 189206).
Othello now asks the trusted Iago who started the fight (Lines 206-221). Iago explains
that he is reluctant to harm Cassio, but that he started the fight, when both Iago and
Montano witnessed Cassio fighting with Roderigo.
Montano tried to intervene and was then attacked. Iago tactfully adds that he is sure
Cassio would not attack Montano unprovoked.
Othello answers to Iago that "I know Iago, / Thy [your] honesty and love doth [does]
mince [muddy / confuse] this matter, / Making it light [making it more favorable] to
Cassio" (Line 248).

Othello adds that he to loves Cassio but that Cassio can no longer be an officer of his
(Line 251).
Desdemona now awake enters, and Othello explains nothing is wrong and tends to
Montano's wound, entrusting Iago to keep the peace (Lines 252-261).
With Othello, Desdemona and Montano departed, Iago is alone once more with
Cassio. Iago plays the concerned friend, asking if Cassio is hurt. Cassio replies yes,
beyond all surgery, for his reputation is now dead.
Iago tries to comfort Cassio by telling him reputation "is an idle and most false
imposition; oft [often] got without merit, and lost without deserving:", explaining that
Cassio has not lost a reputation at all, unless he reputes himself to be a loser.
Iago tells Cassio not to despair, there are other ways to regain Othello's favor (Lines
270-288).
Cassio now starts to sober up and increasingly is distraught at what he has done as he
slowly pieces together his actions with the help of Iago (Lines 288-318).
Iago now explains a solution to Cassio's problem (lost rank). Iago has noticed that
Othello, their General is completely devoted to his wife.
If Cassio chooses to "confess yourself freely to her;" (Line 324), Desdemona's
influential words with the General (Othello) may be able to put Cassio in his place (or
rank) again as an officer (Lines 318-443).
Cassio is pleased with Iago'so called "help", telling him "You advise me well" (Line
335).
Cassio has made up his mind; in the morning he will go and see Desdemona and Iago
alone once again explains his plan.
Desdemona will speak to Othello on Cassio's behalf allowing Iago to destroy
Desdemona's credit or trust with her husband since as Iago famously says, he will
pour a pestilence in his ear (rumor) to suggest Desdemona is only helping Cassio
because she "repeals him for her body's lust;" (Helps him for her own desire to bed
Cassio), (Line 366).
Iago:
I'll pour this pestilence into his [Othello's] ear / That she repeals him for her body's
lust; / And, by how much she strives to do him good, / She shall undo her credit with
the Moor. So will I turn her virtue into pitch, / And out of her goodness make the net /
That shall enmesh them all. (Lines 364-372)
In this way Iago will turn poor Desdemona's "virtue [good reputation] into pitch," or
rubbish, destroying Othello, Desdemona and Cassio all at once.
Interestingly, this last aside is important for its insight into Iago's character. It seems
contradictory. At first Iago wonders how he could be a "villain" arguing that he is
merely letting other people's natures take their course, yet later Iago drops this line of
denial and embraces the evil his manipulation represents by saying "Divinity of hell!"
making links between the false appearances of devils and his own actions with no
attempt to deny the association, relishing the destruction of his enemies (Lines 345370).

Roderigo now enters, a somewhat broken and wounded man. His money is out and he
will make plans to soon go back to Venice (Lines 372-378). Iago, mindful of his need
of Roderigo's wealth, tells him to be patient asking "What wound did ever heal but by
degrees [slowly]?" (Line 380).
Roderigo may be hurt from his fight with Cassio, but Roderigo won; Cassio has lost
his position. Roderigo now leaves and Iago makes further plans... His wife Emilia will
convince Desdemona to defend Cassio to Othello and he will make sure Othello is in
a position to see Desdemona and Cassio speaking or "Soliciting his wife:" so Othello
can jump to the wrong conclusion that Desdemona is cheating on him with Cassio
(Lines 392-396).
Act III. Scene I. - Cyprus. Before the Castle.
Cassio: "I never knew / A Florentine more kind and honest."
Cassio arranges some music, which he hopes, might earn him some favor with
Othello. Cassio tells Iago that he has arranged to meet Desdemona, Iago helping
Cassio to do this. Iago's wife, Emilia tells Cassio that Othello would like to
reinstate him as his lieutenant but the fact that his fight is public news, prevents
Othello from doing so immediately. Emilia tells Cassio who is eager to be
reinstated as Othello's lieutenant that she can arrange a meeting with
Desdemona. Desdemona's good word with Othello might help Cassio be
reinstated...
Cassio begins this scene by telling some musicians who surround him, where to play.
Cassio is hoping the musicians' music and the clown he has paid for will help smooth
things over between him and Othello. The musicians play until they are dismissed by
the Clown Cassio has also paid for (Lines 1-21). At this point, Cassio arrives, giving
the Clown a piece of gold for his troubles (Line 25).
Now Cassio asks the Clown "If the gentlewomen [Iago's wife Emilia] that attends
[waits on] the general's wife [Desdemona] be stirring [is about]," instructing the
Clown to "tell her there's one Cassio entreats her a little favour of speech:" (tell her
one Cassio asks the favor that she listen to him), (Lines 27-29).
Iago enters, asking why Cassio has not yet gone to sleep. Cassio explains that he has
made the bold move of trying to seek Desdemona's audience so she may help him out
of his trouble (Lines 32-37).
Iago explains not to worry, he can help Cassio gain Desdemona's audience, saying "I'll
send her [Desdemona] to you presently; / And I'll devise a mean [means] to draw the
Moor [Othello] / Out of the way, that your converse [conversation] and business /
May be more free" (I'll send Desdemona to you Cassio and I'll come up with a way to
distract Othello so you and Desdemona can talk more freely), (Lines 38-41).
By these lines we can also assume that "means" of distracting Othello may be more so
Iago can have Othello watch Desdemona and Cassio "soliciting" than to help Cassio.
Now in a line full of irony, Cassio praises the deceptive and manipulating Iago by
saying "I never knew / A Florentine [Iago] more kind and honest" (Line 42),
completely unaware that more "Florentines" like Iago would not necessarily be a good
thing...
With Iago departed, Emilia enters and Cassio learns some good news from Iago's
wife,"all will soon be well" Emilia says (Line 44) since Desdemona has learned of

Cassio's loss of rank and is already defending him or as Emilia puts it, "she speaks for
you [Cassio] stoutly [strongly]:" (Line 47), the only problem is that the whole incident
is now famous in Cypress and so Othello who does love Cassio, is reluctant at the
moment to reinstate Cassio as his lieutenant (Lines 47-52).
Cassio, eager to ensure his reinstatement as Othello's lieutenant asks Emilia to arrange
a private audience for him with Desdemona. Emilia says she can "bestow" (Line 57)
or place Cassio in a place where he can discuss his problem freely with Desdemona
and Cassio thanks her for her troubles (Line 56).
Thus Cassio, who already had Othello almost on his side again, goes down a path Iago
wants, because Cassio is just a little too eager to regain his title and not let any
opportunity pass...
Act III. Scene II. - A Room in the Castle.
Meanwhile at Othello's castle, Othello is instructing Iago, now well trusted, to deliver
some letters to a pilot who will deliver them on "to the senate;" back in Venice (Line
1). This task completed, Iago is to "Repair" or return to Othello where Othello will be
"walking on the works;" (supervising and managing), (Line 2) the fortifications that
he intends to now look at (Lines 4-6).
Act III. Scene III. - Before the Castle.
Iago: "O ! beware my lord, of jealousy; / It is the green-ey'd monster which doth mock
/ The meat it feeds on...."
Cassio speaks with a very sympathetic Desdemona who assures him that Othello
still very much loves Cassio. Furthermore, Desdemona resolves to keep putting
in a good word for Cassio until he is again Othello's lieutenant. Though
Desdemona is keen for Cassio to watch her defend him, Cassio decides to leave.
At a distance, Iago manipulates Othello by first suggesting shock and then hiding
his outbursts from Othello. This guarantees Othello's attention, as Iago plants
seeds of doubt in Othello's mind about Desdemona's fidelity especially where
Cassio is concerned. Iago leaves an Othello who almost believes that his wife is
having an affair with Cassio.
Othello now complains of a headache to Desdemona, which results in her
dropping a strawberry patterned handkerchief, Othello's first gift to her. Emilia
picks this up giving it to Iago who decides the handkerchief could help his
manipulation if he ensures Cassio receives it.
Iago arranges to place the handkerchief near Cassio's lodgings or home where he
is certain to find it and take it as his own, unaware that it is Othello's gift to
Desdemona.
A furious Othello returns to Iago, certain his wife is faithful and demanding
proof from Iago of Desdemona's infidelity. Reluctantly and hesitantly, Iago tells
Othello he saw Cassio wipe his brow with Desdemona's handkerchief. Othello is
convinced, cursing his wife and telling Iago who is now promoted to lieutenant to
kill Cassio. Othello will deal with Desdemona...
Before the castle, we see Desdemona, Cassio and Emilia.

Desdemona assures Cassio in the opening line that she will do her best to put in a
good word for Cassio: "Be thou assured [rest assured], good Cassio, I will do / All my
abilities in [on] thy [your] behalf" (Line 1).
Emilia adds that Cassio's hardship "grieves my husband [Iago], / As if the case
[problem] were his" (Line 2), Desdemona confirming that Iago is indeed "an honest
fellow" (Line 5).
Desdemona now tells Cassio not to worry; soon he and Othello will be as good friends
as ever they were. Cassio in appreciation says that whatever becomes of him he will
never be anything but Desdemona's "true servant" (Line 9).
Desdemona explains that she will ensure Othello stands no further away from him
than polite distance (Lines 9-13). Cassio is not altogether happy about this, fearing
that soon his general (Othello) in Cassio's words, "will forget my love and service" to
him (Lines 13-18).
Desdemona tells Cassio not to worry. She will make Othello's bed seem like a school,
"his board a shrift;" (Line 24) and she will "intermingle" (vouch) everything Othello
does "With Cassio's suit", not stopping her campaign of vouching for Cassio until she
has succeeded. (Lines 19-28).
Othello now enters with Iago, some way off in the distance. Cassio decides to leave
despite Desdemona telling him to stay to hear her vouch for him. Saying he is "ill at
ease," (uncomfortable), Cassio makes his exit, Desdemona letting him go (Line 32).
Iago now starts softening Othello up for his manipulation... He starts by exclaiming
"Ha! I like not that" securing the attention of Othello who would likely has just seen
Cassio leave his wife (Line 35).
Othello now asks what Iago is talking about...
Iago says "Nothing, my lord:" leading him on by adding "I know not what" (Line 36).
Othello definitely wants answers now and trying to piece together what Iago is trying
to hide asks, "Was not that Cassio parted from my wife?" (Didn't Cassio just leave my
wife?), (Line 37).
Iago now starts to imply something might be going on between Cassio and
Desdemona. He does this by pretending to ignore the idea that Cassio could be having
a secret affair with Othello's wife.
Iago: "Cassio my lord? No, sure, I cannot think it / That he would steal away so
guilty-like, / Seeing you coming", (Cassio my lord? No, sure, I cannot believe Cassio
would run away so guiltily because he sees you coming towards him and
Desdemona), (Line 38).
Othello though is certain it was Cassio, saying "I do believe t'was (it was) he" (Line
40).
Desdemona now explains to Othello that it was Cassio, describing him as "A man that
languishes [is weak] in your displeasure", (Lines 41-45).
Othello does not understand, but Desdemona explains that she means Cassio and that
with whatever grace or power she has to move Othello, asks Othello to call Cassio
back and forgive him for mistakes made from ignorance not cunning (Lines 44-51).

Othello now asks where Cassio is and Desdemona explains to Othello how grieved he
was to have upset him. She asks for Othello to call him back again (Line 52).
Othello says no, some other time. Desdemona asks if it will be at dinner? Othello says
no; will it be at tomorrow's dinner? , Othello again says no, adding that he will meet
his captains at the citadel and that he will not be eating at home (Lines 54-60).
Desdemona will not abandon Cassio and asks if Othello will see Cassio on Tuesday
morning or night or Wednesday morning, saying it should be no longer than three
days (Lines 60-73).
Othello may now be very suspicious of his wife. Why is Desdemona so desperate for
Cassio to be reinstated as his officer?
Othello ends this line of conversation by telling Desdemona that Cassio should come
when he wishes, adding that he will deny him nothing (Lines 74-76).
Desdemona will not however let this go, saying that when she makes such a request,
should it not have the influence that Othello would be fearful to ignore it?
Othello answers that he will deny his wife nothing, asking only that he now be left
alone (Line 84).
Desdemona departs with Emilia, Othello once again confirming that he does love his
wife, saying of Desdemona, "but I do love thee [you]! and when I love thee [you]
not, / Chaos is come again" (Line 92).
This is ironic, since Othello is saying when he loves and trusts Desdemona,
everything is fine, when Othello does not love (or trust) his wife he will be plunged
into chaos. Given that Iago the man who will make Othello not love his wife is beside
him, this line is both ironic and an example of foreshadowing; future events are being
predicted by this line. Othello will soon not love his wife and Othello will soon be
plunged into chaos.
Iago now places seeds of doubt in Othello about Cassio. He asks Othello whether
Michael Cassio knew of his love for Desdemona when he began to woo or court her
(Lines 93-96).
Learning that Cassio did, Iago asks for the satisfaction of his piece of mind on
whether Cassio did anything else? (Line 97).
Othello now is again curious, asking "Why of thy thought, Iago?" (What of it Iago?),
(Line 98).
Iago now makes his thoughts clear saying, "I did not think he had been acquainted
with her" (Line 99).
Othello now disagrees; saying Cassio often come between them.
Othello: "O! yes; and [Cassio] went between us very oft [often]" (Line 100).
Thus by suggesting Cassio was not having an affair with Desdemona, Iago by
reminding Othello of Cassio's involvement in their courtship, has given Othello good
enough reason to suspect it himself...

Othello and Iago now both agree on Cassio's involvement, saying the words "Indeed!"
and Othello questions Iago on whether in his opinion, Cassio could be called
"honest?" (Lines 101-106).
Othello now questions Iago if this could be. Iago tactfully says "Think, my lord!"
(Line 106). Othello suspects Iago is hiding a terrible truth about Desdemona and
Cassio from him:
By heaven, he [Iago] echoes me, / As if there were some monster in his thought / Too
hideous to be shown. Thou [you] dost [did] mean something: / I heard thee [you, Iago]
say but now, thou [you] lik'dst [liked] not that, / When Cassio left my wife; what didst
[ did you] not like? (Lines 107-110)
Othello realizing what is happening, says Iago meant to say something (Desdemona is
being unfaithful) that is in Othello's words was "Too hideous to be shown" (Line 108).
Othello reminds Iago that he did mention he did not like the way Cassio was talking
to Desdemona earlier. What bothered him, Othello asks?
Seizing the moment, Othello tells Iago that if he truly loves him, he will tell him his
real thoughts and stop hiding them from him (Lines 109-116).
Iago now repeats that Cassio is honest and ironically says "Men should be what they
seem; / Or those that be not, would they might seem none!" (Line 127).
Othello tries again to force Iago's thoughts from him (Lines 128-164), at which point
Iago ironically famously tells Othello "beware, my lord, of jealousy; / It is the greeney'd monster which doth [does] mock / The meat it feeds on;" (Line 166).
Othello now explains that he cannot doubt his wife telling Iago, "I'll see [believe it]
before I doubt; when I doubt [Desdemona's fidelity], prove; / And, on the proof, there
is no more but this, / Away at once with love or jealousy!" (Lines 189-192).
Othello will not doubt his wife without proof.
Iago now finishes off his manipulation, explaining that he is glad Othello will not be
rash, since he can now prove his loyalty to Othello, saying that Othello should not
look for proof from him, but from his wife, saying "Look to your wife; observe her
well with Cassio;" (look to your wife and watch her closely with Cassio), adding that
Othello should be impartial and to "Wear your eye thus, not jealous nor secure [be
impartial in your judgments]:" since Iago would not see Othello's nature turned (Lines
192-204).
Iago now ends his speech by laying down an offhanded (passing) remark Othello
cannot but notice, saying "In Venice they do not let heaven see the pranks / They dare
not show their husbands; their best conscience / Is not leave't undone, but keep
unknown" (In Venice woman commit adultery hiding this from their husbands), (Line
202).
Othello asks Iago what he means and Iago points out Desdemona has deceived her
father in marrying Othello, adding that when Desdemona feared Othello's appearance
most, she still loved him this fact gaining Othello's agreement with Iago (Lines 206208).

Thus by following a suggestion (Desdemona can lie to her father and why not you)
with the fact that Desdemona loves Othello, Othello believes the first suggestion as he
accepts already the second.
Iago now finishes up by saying that what he said comes from his love of Othello
nothing more, asking Othello not to repeat his words.
Iago now leaves and sets off to watch Desdemona's movements. Othello is now
already distrustful of his wife. Meanwhile Othello is left with questions, many, many
questions (Lines 216-240).
Othello now asks why he married Desdemona, thinking Iago still knows much more
than he is letting on (Lines 241-244).
Iago returns, saying it is better to leave this matter to time to sort out saying if
Desdemona strains Cassio's entertainment too strongly, much will be seen in this. In
the meanwhile, Iago wishes to be left to his fears (Lines 244-255).
Othello now alone, praises Iago's great honesty and starts thinking of what he would
do if Desdemona were truly unfaithful saying if she is unfaithful, he is abused and is
relief must be to loath (hate) her (Lines 258-276).
Othello is very certain he would not like be cheated on, saying he would rather be a
toad and live in a dungeon than to keep in a corner the person he loves (Desdemona)
"For others' uses [for others to use or be intimate with]" (Line 273).
Othello turns a corner now realizing how unfounded these thoughts are and with
Desdemona's arrival, Othello decides she could not be unfaithful to him: "If she be
false, O! then heaven mocks itself. I'll not believe it" (Line 278).
Desdemona announces preparations for dinner and asks her beloved husband why he
speaks so softly.
Othello replies that it is because he has a headache or as Othello describes it a, "pain
upon my forehead" (Line 284).
Desdemona tells Othello she will bind his head and all should be well within an hour
or so (Lines 285-286).
Othello complains that the napkin used is "too little:" (Line 287), and Desdemona
drops her handkerchief to the floor.
Othello tells Desdemona not to worry about it, leaving with her.
Emilia now is left all alone and picking up the handkerchief remarks how fortunate it
was that she has found it; the handkerchief being Desdemona's first "remembrance"
(gift) from the Moor (Othello).
Emilia explains that Iago has wanted this handkerchief for some time, saying "My
wayward husband hath [has] a hundred times / Woo'd [urged] me to steal it," but
Desdemona keeps the handkerchief so close to her it was never possible (Line 292).
Emilia is happy. Her husband (Iago) will be pleased though she has no idea what Iago
will do with it (Lines 290-299).

Iago now arrives, chiding his wife. Emilia tells him he should not, she has something
he wants. Emilia produces the handkerchief and Iago eagerly grabs it.
Iago asks if Emilia stole it, Emilia explains she found it on the floor after Desdemona
dropped it "by negligence," (by accident), (Line 311).
Emilia wants to know what Iago will do with it. He tells her it is no business of hers.
Emilia asks for the handkerchief back if Iago will not return it to Desdemona. Iago
says he has other plans for it and Emilia leaves (Lines 300-320).
Now alone, Iago explains to us his cunning plan...
Iago will "lose this napkin," (leave it) at Cassio's lodging (place) where Cassio cannot
but find it, Cassio explaining that "trifles" as light as air (coincidences like the napkin
being in Cassio's possession) are to the jealous confirmations or proof as strong as
"holy writ;" or holy declarations (Lines 320-325).
Iago hopes this may help his plan along, adding that he is already changing Othello:
"The Moor already changes with my poison:" adding that soon his poison, will "Burn
like the mines of sulphur" in Othello given a little more manipulation (Lines 325331).
Othello now arrives and is very certain that Desdemona is not cheating on him with
Cassio. He makes this very clear when he says "I found not Cassio's kisses on her
lips;" (Line 342), to which Iago replies "I am sorry to hear this" (Line 345).
Othello also adds that Iago had better have proof Desdemona has been cheating or
Iago should wish he were a dog such will be the fury of Othello's wrath for misleading
him.
Othello:
Villain, be sure thou prove my love a whore, / Be sure of it; give me the ocular
proof; / Or, by the worth of mine eternal soul, / Thou hadst been better be have been
born a dog / Than answer my wak'd wrath (Lines 360-363).
Iago now asks "Is't come to this? [Has it come to this?]", (Line 364).
Othello makes it clear that it has, saying "Make me to see't; or, at the least, so prove it,
/ That the probation bear no hinge nor loop / To hang a doubt on; or woe upon thy
life!" (Make me see Desdemona's infidelity or at the very least prove it so without a
doubt I can believe it or suffering and misery upon your life), (Line 365).
Othello is still mad, adding that there is no greater damnation than the one he commits
in slandering Desdemona and by implication torturing him (Lines 369-374).
Iago begs for forgiveness (Line 374) but Othello wants proof to which Iago innocently
asks what that could be? (Lines 375-396).
Iago now laments just how hard it would be for him to prove Desdemona is being
unfaithful, but tells Othello that if he wants "imputation, and strong circumstances,"
(implication and circumstantial evidence), which would "lead directly to the door of
truth [that Desdemona being unfaithful]... you may have it" (Line 408).
This is the turning point for now Othello says...

"Give me a living reason she's disloyal" (Give me a reason why Desdemona is

disloyal or unfaithful), (Line 409).
Iago explains that he does "not like the office;" (Line 411) or the responsibility of
what he must now do and explains that he heard Cassio in his sleep say:
'Sweet Desdemona, / Let us be wary, let us hide our loves!' / And then, sir, would he
gripe and wring my hand, / Cry 'O, sweet creature!' and then kiss me hard, / As if he
pluck'd up kisses by the roots, / That grew upon my lips; then laid his leg / Over my
thigh, and sigh'd, and kiss'd; and then / Cried, 'Cursed fate, that gave thee [you] to the
Moor! [Othello]'" (Lines 420-426)
Othello is disgusted but reminds Iago that this is a dream, not proof. Now Iago reveals
his trump card asking Othello,
"Tell me but this: / Have you not sometimes seen a handkerchief / Spotted with
strawberries in your wife's hand?" (Line 436).
Othello says yes, it was his first gift to Desdemona.
Iago agrees and says:
"I know not that [I did not know that]; but such a handkerchief- / I am sure it was your
wife's-did I to-day / See Cassio wipe his beard with" (Line 439).
Othello says "If it be that,-" (Line 440) and Iago finishes Othello's sentence saying if
this was true it does indeed tell against her along with all the other proofs Iago has
already mentioned (Line 441).
Othello now is enraged, claiming to be too weak for revenge and now Othello cries
"O! blood, blood, blood!", Iago suggesting patience (Line 452).
Othello now explains that he can never let this matter go and falls to his knees (Lines
455-461).
Telling Othello to not yet rise, Iago pledges his life and duty "To wrong'd [the
wronged] Othello's service!", saying Othello may command in whatever bloody
business awaits (Line 468).
Othello now rises, telling Iago that he accepts his service and in particular within three
days wants to hear from Iago the word that Cassio is dead.
Iago accepts this saying his friend (Cassio) is dead but asking that Desdemona may
live (Line 474).
Othello finishes the scene in rage, screaming "Damn her, lewd minx! O, damn her!"
(Line 476).
Othello says he will now withdraw while he devises "some swift means of death / For
the fair devil" (his fair wife Desdemona), (Line 477).
Othello also tells Iago that "Now art thou my lieutenant" (you are now my lieutenant),
(Line 477)
Iago replies "I am your own for ever" (I am yours forever), (End of scene).

Act III. Scene IV. - Before the Castle.

Desdemona speaks with a Clown whom she sends off to find Cassio. Desdemona
worries about her missing handkerchief and comments that if she lost it, it could
lead Othello to doubt her fidelity. Emilia when asked of the handkerchief lies,
denying that she has seen the handkerchief, she picked up and gave to Iago in the
last scene.
Othello enters; asking Desdemona for the very same handkerchief and
Desdemona assures him it is not lost and will be found. Desdemona now tries to
change the subject to Cassio, but Othello continually stresses the value the
handkerchief has to him, this leading to Othello angrily ordering his wife away.
Cassio arrives, Desdemona telling him that her attempts to help him are not
going well. Iago claims total ignorance to the cause of Othello's fury. Cassio gives
Othello's handkerchief, which he found to his suspicious mistress Bianca who
reluctantly starts to copy its patterning (presumably its strawberry motif /
design) for him.
Before or outside the castle, Desdemona is speaking with a Clown, asking if the
Clown has seen Cassio. The Clown has not, he replies, speaking as Shakespearean
clowns do, in riddles which appear incomprehensible but usually are intelligent
insights to the play's action. Desdemona nonetheless sends him off to find Cassio
(Lines 1-23).
Now Desdemona turns her attention to her missing handkerchief, asking Emilia where
she could have lost that handkerchief? (Line 24).
Emilia lies, saying, "I know not, madam" (Line 25).
Desdemona now ironically explains she would rather lose her purse with all it's
valuable contents than the handkerchief which could put her jealous husband to "ill
thinking" or silly, jealous thoughts (Line 29).
Desdemona seeing Othello coming says she will not leave his side until Cassio is
called to him.
Othello enters and Desdemona asks Othello to remember his promise to her, to speak
to Cassio (Line 49).
Othello replies by asking for his handkerchief, saying "Lend [give] me thy [your]
handkerchief" (Line 52).
This Desdemona begins to do until Othello says "That which I gave you" (the one that
I gave you), (Line 54).
Desdemona comes clean; she does not have it. Othello now describes its importance
to him; it was given to his mother by an Egyptian many years ago (Lines 56-69).
Othello adds that the handkerchief has "magic in the web of it;" (Line 70) or magical
properties and Desdemona tries to reassure Othello it is not lost and will be found
(Lines 68-88).
Now Desdemona argues the handkerchief is a trick to distract her from her mission to
have the Cassio issue discussed and the two begin to fight, Othello saying he wants to

discuss the handkerchief, Desdemona Cassio, with Othello eventually ordering

Desdemona away (Lines 88-96).
Emilia and Desdemona talk. Emilia has never seen Othello so jealous and now the
two spot Iago and Cassio.
Cassio greeting Desdemona asks how things are going for his reinstatement.
Desdemona explains it is not going well, Iago innocently asking "Is my lord [Othello]
angry?" (Line 131).
Iago pretends to have no idea why Othello is angry but leaves saying he will find out
from Othello (Lines 132-138).
Desdemona is still unsure why Othello is so angry; thinking it must be some matter of
state she is unaware of (Lines 140-152). Emilia does not know either.
Desdemona and Emilia now part, Desdemona telling Cassio she will try again to help
him (Line 164).
Meanwhile, Cassio meets up with Bianca, his mistress. She is less than happy at being
neglected for so long (Lines 168-203) so Cassio gives Bianca a handkerchief he
found, hoping it will placate (calm) her. It does not since Bianca immediately asks
him if it is from another "friend" meaning another girlfriend.
Cassio explains that he does not know who owns it but asks Bianca to make a copy of
the handkerchief since he likes the work (patterning) on it and now he leaves a
reluctant Bianca who decides to do the work nonetheless.

Act IV. Scene I. - Cyprus. Before the Castle.

Othello: "How shall I murder him, Iago?"
Iago fans the flames of Othello's distrust and fury with Desdemona's supposed
"infidelity" by first suggesting Desdemona shared her bed with Cassio and then
by saying that her giving away the handkerchief is no big deal when Iago knows
all too well that giving away this sentimental gift is. Next Iago tells Othello that
Cassio will "blab" or gloat to others about his conquest of Desdemona before
telling Othello that Cassio boasted to him that he did indeed sleep with
Desdemona.
Cassio arrives, Othello hiding himself as Iago suggests, so that he can see for
himself that Cassio does indeed boast of his affair with Desdemona to others.
Iago now cunningly talks to Cassio about Cassio's mistress Bianca, each smile
and each gesture made by Cassio infuriating Othello who thinks Cassio is talking
about sleeping with his wife. Next Bianca arrives, angrily giving back the
handkerchief Cassio gave her. This infuriates Othello since as Iago puts it, Cassio
not only received Othello's handkerchief from his wife but he then gave it to his
whore (Bianca) as if it was worthless.
Othello decides to kill Desdemona by strangulation in her bed, Iago's idea. Iago
pledges to kill Cassio. Lodovico arrives announcing that Othello is to return
home and Cassio is to be the next Governor of Cypress. Desdemona's joy for
Cassio enrages Othello, leaving Lodovico and Iago to wonder how much Othello

seems to have changed and poor Desdemona to wonder how she offended the
man she truly loves...
Iago and Othello are talking or more accurately Iago is talking, Othello, seething.
Iago lets it slip that Desdemona may well have shared her bed with Cassio (Lines 14), provoking a furious response from Othello who says it is impossible that
Desdemona may have meant no harm by this as Iago innocently suggests.
Iago adds that "If they do nothing, 'tis a venial slip; / But if I gave my wife a
handkerchief,-" (if they do nothing it is a venial slip but if I gave my wife a
handkerchief,), (Line 10), she can do with her handkerchief as she pleases and in
Iago's words can bestow it or give it away to any man she wishes...
Othello in fury tells Iago that his wife "is protectress of her honour [her fidelity] too"
sarcastically asking, "May she give that?" away as well. (Line 14).
Iago fans the flames saying, "Her honour is an essence that's not seen; / They have it
very oft [often] that have it not: / But for the handkerchief-" (Line 16).
At this point, Othello once again despairs at the terrible misfortune he has suffered
and Iago adds that knaves (scoundrels) such as Cassio always or "must blab" (gloat,
tell others), (Line 28), suggesting that Cassio is unlikely to let Desdemona's
extramarital activities remain a secret.
Now pretending not to want to tell Othello further bad news, Iago reluctantly lets it
slip that Cassio told Iago he did "Lie-" with Desdemona or slept with her (Lines 2834). Othello flies into rage, saying Cassio shall first confess, then be hanged and in his
rage falls into a trance (Lines 34- 48).
Cassio now enters, asking, "What's the matter?" (Line 50). Iago explains that Othello
has fallen into an epilepsy, adding that this is his second fit; he had one yesterday.
Iago now gets Cassio to leave by suggesting Othello will soon wake up which Othello
does (Line 60). Iago tells Othello to hide so he can see for himself how Cassio acts.
Othello agrees, adding that he will be most cunning in his patience and also most
bloody (Lines 61-93).
Iago explains to us that when Cassio arrives, he will talk to Cassio about his mistress
Bianca, Iago adding that he is sure Cassio will laugh excessively about such a topic.
This will make Othello mad with rage since Othello will assume he is laughing and
smiling and making lewd gestures about Desdemona, his wife and not Bianca his
mistress (Lines 93-104).
Sure enough, Cassio arrives and Iago talks to him about Bianca. Cassio does indeed
laugh and Othello notices this, just as Iago had planned (Line 118).
Cassio's hand movements and expressions are of course taken by Othello to be
expressions about his wife when in fact they are about Bianca, Othello at one point
interpreting Cassio's gestures to be Desdemona crying out "'O dear Cassio!'" (Line
140), (Lines 120-149).
Bianca now arrives complaining that she is being taken for granted. She is angry that
she has been neglected by Cassio and was asked to copy the handkerchief, giving the
handkerchief angrily back to Iago before departing with Cassio in trail (Lines 150173).

Cassio's bawdy gestures and Bianca giving Cassio, Desdemona's handkerchief as if it

were worthless, fit for spreading around to all and sundry earns Othello's rage. He
asks Iago simply, "How shall I murder him [Cassio], Iago?" (Line 177).
Iago now reminds Othello of how Cassio laughed at his vice (his adultery with
Desdemona), reminding Othello that the handkerchief he saw was Desdemona's. Iago
now rubs further salt in Othello's wound by commenting on how Cassio not only
received Othello's handkerchief from his wife but then gave it to his whore (Line
185).
Othello now makes an important decision; Desdemona will not survive the night. At
first he decides to "Hang her!" (Line 196), then he decides instead to "chop her into
messes [pieces]" (Line 210) then later to poison her (Line 215). But on Iago's
suggestion, Othello decides he will "strangle her in her bed," (Line 219), specifically
"the bed she hath [has] contaminated" (Line 219).
Iago for his part pledges to kill Cassio or in his own words, he will become Cassio's
"undertaker;" (Line 224).
Lodovico now arrives with Desdemona, greeting his general warmly, and delivering
to Othello a letter, which Othello duly reads. Lodovico also asks how Cassio is,
learning from Desdemona that Cassio and Othello are no longer on speaking terms
(Lines 230-250).
Lodovico suggests his letter may have something to do with it; Othello has been
ordered home and Cassio made Governor of Cypress (Lines 247-250).
Desdemona answers she is glad to hear it and Othello hearing Desdemona say this,
shouts "Indeed! [Really / I am sure you are!]" (Line 251), thinking his wife is happy
for Cassio. Othello then tells Desdemona that he is "glad to see you mad."
Desdemona does not understand, to which Othello in a rage strikes his wife, calling
her "Devil!" (Line 251).
Desdemona explains that she does not deserve this, and Lodovico trys to tell Othello
to calm down; Desdemona is weeping. Othello tells him not to take her tears too
seriously and Desdemona leaves, telling Othello that "I will not stay to offend you"
(Line 258) even though she does not know how she has offended her husband (Lines
253-260).
Othello now tells Lodovico that he will obey the letter's mandate for him to return to
Venice and Lodovico departs a very confused man. (Line 270).
Having left Othello, Lodovico talks to Iago, amazed that Othello has acted the way he
has; he had heard that Othello, "the noble Moor" (Line 275) was a man of noble
nature and is now uncertain that he is a man "Whom passion could not shake?" (Line
277)
Iago innocently explains that "He is much chang'd" (changed), (Line 279), and
Lodovico is saddened that the Othello he had been told of, no longer seems to exist.
Act IV. Scene II. - A Room in the Castle.
Desdemona: "I understand a fury in your words, / But not the words."

Othello questions Emilia whether Desdemona was unfaithful to him. Emilia

replies no. Annoyed that Emilia answers suggest nothing has happened between
Desdemona and Cassio, Othello dismisses her comments as those of a simple
woman.
Othello meets Desdemona, Desdemona becoming increasingly upset with her
husband's anger towards her, one she can see no reason for. Othello eventually
reveals that her infidelity is the source of his anger, Desdemona pleading her
innocence on deaf ears.
Desdemona tells Emilia to have her wedding sheets placed on her bed in the hope
that these will smooth matters over. Emilia and Desdemona discuss Othello's
strange behavior. Emilia is certain some evil fellow has twisted Othello to believe
Desdemona has been unfaithful, not realizing that this evil man is her own
husband Iago.
We learn that Iago has been pocketing Roderigo's gifts to Desdemona, which
never reached her. Fearing Roderigo will learn this, Iago tells Roderigo that
Cassio must die, conveniently using Roderigo to kill Cassio for him...
Now out of his trance, Othello questions Emilia for any evidence of infidelity on
Desdemona's part, asking Emilia, "You have seen nothing then?" (Line 1).
Emilia explains that she has never heard, let alone expected any such behavior from
Desdemona (Line 2).
Othello now asks Emilia if she ever saw Desdemona and Cassio together (Line 3).
Emilia answers yes but points out that "I saw no harm," adding that she heard every
syllable of conversation between them (Line 4).
Intrigued, Othello asks Emilia for details, learning that Cassio and Desdemona never
whispered nor sent Emilia away for privacy's sake, even to fetch Desdemona's fan,
gloves or her mask (Line 5).
Othello, who is looking for evidence of infidelity, but can find none, says, "That's
strange" (Line 10).
Emilia vouches for Desdemona's virtue now, explaining that "if she [Desdemona] be
not honest, chaste, and true, / There's no man happy; the purest of their wives / Is foul
as slander" (if Desdemona is not honest, chaste and true, then no man is happy as even
the purest of their wives must be as foul), (Line 16).
Othello sends Emilia away, immediately dismissing these warning signs about
Desdemona's alleged infidelity by remarking that Emilia is "a simple bawd" (Line 18),
adding that Emilia is "a subtle whore, / A closet lock and key of villainous secrets;"
yet a women who would kneel and pray since Othello explains that he has seen her do
this (Lines 20-22).
Emilia and Desdemona return, Othello telling Emilia to leave so he can be alone with
his wife (Lines 23-29).
Now alone, Desdemona pleads on her knees for Othello to explain his anger towards
her, saying, "I understand a fury in your words, / But not the words" (I understand
your anger but not why), (Line 32).

Othello asks Desdemona what she is. Desdemona replies "Your wife, my lord; your
true / And loyal wife" (Line 34).
Othello tells her to swear that "thou [you] art [are] honest" (Line 36).
Desdemona says "Heaven doth [does] truly know it", Othello replying "Heaven truly
knows that thou [you] art [are] false as hell" (Lines 37- 38).
Desdemona asks "To whom, my lord? with whom? how am I false?", Othello telling
her to leave (Line 39).
Desdemona tries to make Othello see her love for him, saying "I hope my noble lord
[Othello] esteems [holds] me [as] honest" (Line 64).
Othello cruelly replies as much as "summer flies are in the shambles," , Desdemona
again asking Othello what sin she has committed (Line 65).
Othello finally tells her, asking Desdemona "Was this fair paper, this most goodly
book, / Made to write 'whore' upon?" and then calling her an "Impudent strumpet!"
(Lines 71-80).
Desdemona pleads her innocence on deaf ears.
When Desdemona says she is not a whore and will be saved, Othello cruelly and
sarcastically asks for forgiveness, saying "I cry you mercy, then; / I took you for that
cunning whore of Venice / That married Othello" (I beg your forgiveness. I mistook
you for that cunning whore from Venice, Desdemona who married Othello), (Line
88).
Emilia enters, asking Desdemona what's wrong with her lord. Desdemona, now
completely distraught, asks "Who is thy [my] lord?" (Line 99), saying "I have none;"
(Line 100) and asking Emilia to leave her alone.
Trying once more to appease her angry husband, Desdemona tells Emilia to lay her
wedding sheets on her bed and to call her husband over; perhaps memories of happier
times will soothe her angry husband (Lines 100-105).
Desdemona now asks how she could have behaved "that he might stick / The small'st
opinion on my least misuse?" (how Othello could think the smallest or most
ridiculous thought on something so unlikely like adultery), (Line 108).
Iago now joins Emilia and Desdemona, Desdemona hesitantly asking Iago if the
whore Othello was talking about was meant to be her (Lines 118-128).
Emilia now speaks words that so very closely would explain the truth, if only she
looked deeper.
Emilia: "I will be hang'd, if some eternal villain [We know this is Iago], / Some busy
and insinuating rogue, / Some cogging cozening slave, to get some office [Iago did
want to be a lieutenant], / Have not devis'd [devised / invented] this slander [these
lies];" (Line 130).
Iago immediately and ironically says "Fie! there is no such man; it is impossible"
(Line 134) but we know better, Iago is this "cogging cozening slave," this "insinuating
rogue;" who has hurt Desdemona's reputation...

Emilia again suspects the truth when she adds that "The Moor's abused by some most
villanous knave [Iago], / Some base notorious knave, some scurvy fellow" (Line 140).
Desdemona now asks Iago how she can clear herself of this problem (Lines 148-164).
Iago tells Desdemona to be content, it is Othello's nature to act like this, obviously
some "business of the state" or state matter has upset him and so he then upsets her
(Lines 164-167).
Iago assures Desdemona it can be nothing else, though we of course know better.
Desdemona and Emilia leave just as Roderigo arrives. We now begin to learn what
Iago has gained from using Roderigo. Roderigo complains that he gave some very
expensive jewels to Iago to forward to Desdemona, yet he received no communication
from Desdemona....
Roderigo adds that he is tired of this effort and will seek Desdemona out himself
saying he will no longer pursue her if she returns his jewels. If, however, she will not
return his jewels, Roderigo tells Iago that he will seek satisfaction [punishment] from
Iago instead (Lines 186-212).
Some fancy footwork (lying) gets Iago out of this dilemma and now Iago tells
Roderigo that Cassio must be killed.
Doing this, Iago says, will cause an incident which will force Othello and Desdemona
to stay in Cypress instead of leaving for Mauritania, a destination Othello is not
traveling to, but which would place Desdemona beyond Roderigo's reach (Lines 212251).
Act IV. Scene III. - Another Room in the Castle.
Desdemona: "Wouldst thou do such a deed for all the world?"
Lodovico tries to calm Othello down. Othello orders Desdemona to bed to await
him later, an order Desdemona dutifully obeys out of love for Othello. Emilia
notices that Othello is much calmer now and tells Desdemona her bed has been
made with her wedding sheets as requested. Desdemona asks to be buried in
those same sheets should she die before Emilia, a hint of trouble ahead
(Foreshadowing). Emilia is barred from joining Desdemona in her bedchamber,
angering her.
Desdemona, depressed recalls a song (The Willow Song) of a maid who was
similarly abused by her husband and sings it. Desdemona and Emilia talk about
infidelity. Desdemona would not be unfaithful to her husband (Othello) for all
the world; the more cynical and worldly Emilia would for the right price...
The scene begins with Othello, Lodovico, Desdemona and Emilia in a room in the
castle.
Lodovico opens the scene by telling Othello to "trouble yourself no further" (Line 1).
Othello wants to walk (and talk) with Lodovico instead but Lodovico politely excuses
himself by thanking Desdemona for her hospitality (Line 3).
Othello again tries to convince Lodovico to walk with him but mid-speech tells
Desdemona to "Get you to bed on the instant;" (Line 7), telling Desdemona that he

will soon be back and for Desdemona to dismiss her attendant there. Desdemona will
now be alone (Lines 5-9).
Desdemona, ever the dutiful wife, does as Othello wishes, saying "I will, my lord"
(Line 10).
Othello, Lodovico and Attendants depart, leaving Desdemona alone with Emilia.
Emilia remarks that Othello seems to have calmed down; "he looks gentler than he
did" earlier she says (Line 11).
Desdemona tells Emilia that Othello said he would return "incontinent;" and that he
ordered her to dismiss Emilia (Line 12).
Emilia is less than pleased by this but Desdemona will not anger Othello further,
saying "We must not now displease him" (We must not anger him), (Line 17). Emilia
says she wishes Desdemona had never met Othello and Desdemona once again makes
her love for Othello clear.
Desdemona explains to Emilia her love of Othello, saying "my love doth [does] so
approve of him, / That even his stubbornness, his cheeks and frowns,- / Prithee, unpin
me,-have grace and favour in them" (Lines 19-21).
Emilia tells Desdemona that she has made her bed with Desdemona's wedding sheets
as requested (Line 22) and Desdemona fatefully tells Emilia that should she "die
before thee [you]," (Line 24), that she be shrouded in those very same sheets.
Desdemona now talks about a maid of her mother's called Barbara who like
Desdemona "was in love," adding that the man "she lov'd [loved] prov'd [proved to
be] mad / And did forsake her;" (Line 27) explaining that she had a song of "'willow;'"
(Line 28, now known in academic circles as the "Willow Song").
Desdemona explains that this song expressed her sad misfortune and that she died
singing it.
Significantly, Desdemona says that this "song to-night / Will not go from my mind;"
saying she has "much to do / But to go hang my head all at one side, / And sing like
poor Barbara" (Line 32).
Clearly Desdemona is quite depressed.
Desdemona and Emilia now comment on how handsome a man Lodovico is,
Desdemona commenting that he speaks well (Lines 36-40).
Desdemona sings the "Willow Song" (Lines 41-58).
Desdemona and Emilia now discuss women who would be unfaithful to their
husbands. Desdemona explains that she would never be unfaithful, "by this heavenly
light!" (Line 67), Emilia agreeing but cheekily adding that "I might do't as well i'the
dark", (I might do it, a reference to intimacy, as well in the dark), (Line 68).
Not taking Emilia's answer seriously, Desdemona now repeats the question, asking if
Emilia would ever be unfaithful or as Desdemona asks, "Wouldst [would] thou [you]
do such a deed for all the world?" (Line 69).

Emilia replies that "The world is a huge thing", explaining that it is a great price for a
small sin or as Emilia says, "'tis a great price / For a small vice" (Line 70).
Desdemona believes Emilia would not, saying "In troth , I think thou wouldst not"
(Line 71).
Emilia says that she would (Lines 74-79), Desdemona again saying she would not "do
such a wrong / For the whole world" (Line 80) and Emilia makes it clear that despite
Desdemona's claim, many such people do exist (Lines 88-108).
We end the scene with the impression that Desdemona is faithful, loving and devoted
to Othello, this contrasting with Emilia who would be unfaithful for the right price.
We also can see that Emilia is considerably less naive about human nature than
Desdemona.
Note the way Emilia describes adulterers in detail showing her insight and knowledge
of such people (Lines 86-108) as opposed to Desdemona who does not believe "there
is any such women" (Line 85).
Act V. Scene I. - Cypress. A Street.
Iago: "This is the night / That either makes me or fordoes me quite."
Iago and Roderigo wait in a street to ambush Cassio. Iago tells Roderigo how to
kill him. Iago does not care which ends up dead. Iago is worried about
Roderigo's increasing questioning about what happened to jewels that were
given to him to pass on to Desdemona...
Roderigo attacks Cassio but Cassio injures Roderigo instead. Iago stabs Cassio,
wounding him in the leg. Othello hearing Cassio's cries is pleased, announcing
that he will soon kill Desdemona.
Lodovico, Gratiano and Iago reappear, Iago claiming total innocence to Cassio's
injuries even though he inflicted them.
Seizing Roderigo, Iago stabs and wounds him "in revenge" for wounding his
"friend" Cassio. Gratiano and Lodovico tend to Cassio's wound.
Bianca, Cassio's mistress arrives, Iago cleverly laying suspicion for Cassio's
injuries on his innocent mistress, making Iago less suspicious...
The final act begins with Iago and Roderigo, waiting in a street for Cassio. Iago
encourages Roderigo to kill Cassio saying, "Here, stand behind this bulk; straight will
he come: / Wear thy good rapier bare, and put it home" (stand behind this bulk, Cassio
will come straight towards you. Draw or bear your rapier and put it home into Cassio),
(Line 1).
Iago assures Roderigo that he is behind him one hundred percent. "Quick, quick;"
Iago urges, "fear nothing; I'll be at thy elbow" or by his side, he says (Line 3).
Roderigo, still uncertain, asks that Iago be near him, in case he "may miscarry in 't" or
fail his task (Line 6).
Iago tells Roderigo to "be bold, and take thy [your] stand" (Line 7).

Iago now explains that he cares little about whether Roderigo kills Cassio or not
saying "whether he kill Cassio, / Or Cassio him, or each do kill the other, / Every way
makes my gain:" (Line 12). Iago also explains that he has a problem in Roderigo since
he may start asking for his jewels back.
Roderigo wants some accounting of the many jewels he gave to Iago as gifts for
Desdemona which never made it to her since Iago never sent them on.
Iago says that if Cassio survives then he will have "a daily beauty in his life / That
makes me ugly;" (Line 19).
Cassio now approaches and Roderigo immediately lunges to attack him. This fails,
Roderigo being wounded by Cassio who drew his sword on him (Line 23).
Seeing Cassio survive Roderigo's attack, Iago surprises Cassio from behind and
wounds him in the leg before exiting once more (Lines 23-27).
"I am maim' d [maimed, wounded] for ever. Help, ho! murder! murder!" Cassio
screams before falling (Line 27).
Othello at some distance hears Cassio's voice, remarking that "Iago keeps his word"
(Line 28), by which Othello means Iago has kept his promise to kill Cassio.
Othello now sings Iago's praises, describing him as brave, honest and just (Line 32).
Othello remarks that he will soon perform his own dark deed (killing Desdemona)
saying, "strumpet, I come! Forth of my heart those charms, thine eyes, are blotted; /
Thy [your] bed lust-stain'd shall with lust's blood be spotted" (Line 36).
Lodovico and Gratiano now enter at some distance, also hearing Cassio's cries of
murder.
Iago joins them carrying a light and asking innocently whose voice it is that cries
murder when Iago knows all too well that he was the one who wounded Cassio (Line
48).
Iago now tends to the wounded Cassio who does not realize he was stabbed in the leg
by Iago (Lines 54-60). Iago even criticizes Lodovico and Gratiano for standing around
and not doing anything while his friend Cassio suffers!
Iago asks who did this (we already know!) and learning from Cassio that Roderigo
was "one of them" (Line 61), Iago immediately calls Roderigo a "murderous slave!"
and a "villain!" before stabbing him (Line 62).
Roderigo realizing he has been betrayed, screams "O damn'd Iago! O inhuman dog!"
(Line 63).
Having stabbed Roderigo in the dark (Line 62), Iago hypocritically criticizes
Roderigo by saying "Kill men i' [in] the dark!" suggesting that this is extremely
dishonorable.
Amazingly Iago, hardly a good man, questions Gratiano and Lodovico whether they
are men of good or evil and learning they are good, immediately binds Cassio's
bleeding leg with his shirt (Lines 64-73).

Bianca (Cassio's mistress) now enters, Iago using her presence to suggest she may
have had something to do with tonight's violence (Line 74).
First Iago declares his suspicions, saying, "I do suspect this trash [Bianca] / To be a
party in this injury" (I suspect this trash has something to do with Cassio's injury),
(Line 85).
Next, despite Bianca's obvious grief for her wounded Cassio, Iago asks Bianca "What
malice was between you?" and his friend Cassio (Line 102).
Iago then says to Bianca "What! look you pale?" (why do you look so pale?), (Line
104) at which point Roderigo and Cassio are borne off or carried away.
Finally, Iago tells Emilia who arrives (Line 110) that Cassio's wound was caused by
Bianca, after all Cassio did just have dinner with Bianca which Bianca confirms (Line
119).
With Emilia convinced, Iago tells her to tell Othello what has happened (Line 123).
Left alone again, Iago says this night will either make his fortunes or break them...
Iago: "This is the night / That either makes me or fordoes me quite" (Line 129).
Act V. Scene II. - A Bedchamber in the Castle. Desdemona in bed asleep. A light
burning.
Othello: "When I have pluck'd the rose, I cannot give it vital growth again, / It needs
must wither: I'll smell it on the tree."
Othello enters Desdemona's bedchamber (bedroom) trying to convince himself
that he is killing her for her own good. He kisses his still asleep wife one last time.
Desdemona awakens, but Othello will still kill her, telling her to pray so her soul
will not die when she does.
Desdemona again asks what wrong she has committed, Othello telling her that
she gave Cassio his handkerchief, by which he means he thinks she had an affair
with him. Desdemona pleads her innocence, telling Othello to bring Cassio over
to prove she did not give away her handkerchief. Othello says he confessed and is
dead, Desdemona's fear and surprise prompting Othello to believe she does care
for him. Othello kills Desdemona.
Emilia's banging on the door outside cannot stop this. Later Emilia is let in,
revealing Iago has killed Roderigo and Desdemona who was thought dead,
murmurs her last breaths but loyally does not say Othello killed her. Othello tells
Emilia he killed her and Emilia despite Iago's attempts to remove her reveals the
truth about the handkerchief; she found it, and then gave it to Iago. Iago now in
trouble, stabs his wife Emilia and escapes. Emilia dies, singing the "Willow
Song" whilst criticizing Othello's foolishness.
Lodovico, Montano, Cassio and the now captured prisoner Iago soon appear,
Othello stabbing Iago but not killing him before having his sword removed.
Lodovico is disappointed that Othello, a man so honorable has reverted to acting
like a slave. Othello tries to argue that killing his wife was a noble action but it
falls on deaf ears. Lodovico learns that Othello and Iago plotted Cassio's death.

Lodovico reveals letters in the dead Roderigo's pocket proving Cassio was to be
killed by Roderigo. Iago proudly confirms that Cassio found Desdemona's
handkerchief because Iago placed it to be found. Othello, realizing what he has
done, kills himself with a concealed weapon and lies himself on top of his wife.
Cassio is placed in charge of Iago and Lodovico leaves to discuss this sad matter
with others abroad...
Desdemona is asleep as Othello enters their bedchamber. Othello is now completely
focused on the task before him, speaking in long, measured, controlled sentences, not
the short urgent sentences we would expect of an angry, emotionally crazed and
driven man.
Othello by his language is calm and resolved. He speaks in the future tense, saying
"I'll not shed her blood," suggesting a finality to his actions but adds that "she must
die," or "else she'll betray more men", perhaps an attempt to suppress his own guilt for
what he is about to do (Line 6).
Othello before kissing Desdemona one last time, explains that "When I have pluck'd
the rose, / I cannot give it vital growth again, / It needs must wither:" (Line 15).
With her bedchamber candle already extinguished (Line 7), Desdemona wakes up,
asking, "Who's there? Othello?" (Line 22). Learning it is Othello; she calms and asks
Othello "Will you come to bed, my lord?" (Line 24).
Othello asks Desdemona whether she has prayed (Line 25) tonight, telling her to
reconcile any crime she may have committed (Line 28).
Desdemona now asks what Othello means by that (Line 29) and Othello tells her to do
her prayers quickly since "I would not kill thy [your] unprepared spirit;" adding that "I
would not kill thy [your] soul" (Line 30).
Desdemona now asks Othello whether he is talking of killing to which Othello replies
"Ay, I do" (Line 32).
Desdemona now terrified, cries "Then heaven / Have mercy on me!" (Line 35).
Desdemona tells Othello that she fears him "When your eyes roll so" (Line 38) yet she
can not understand why she fears Othello; she has committed no wrong? (Lines 3738).
Othello replies "Think on thy [your] sins" (Line 39). Desdemona explains that "They
are loves I bear to you" (Line 40) and now Othello commands Desdemona to be still.
Desdemona saying, "I will so. What's the matter?" (Line 47).
Othello tells Desdemona that she has given the handkerchief he lovingly gave to
Desdemona to Cassio. Desdemona says no, asking Othello to send for Cassio and ask
him himself.
Othello now tells Desdemona that "thou'rt [you are] on thy [your] death-bed" (you are
on your deathbed / tonight you will die), (Line 50).
Desdemona says yes but "not yet to die" (Line 51).
Othello tells her to confess her sins adding "Thou [you] art [are going] to die" (Line
56).

Desdemona again pleads for mercy, telling Othello she "never lov'd Cassio" (Line 59)
but Othello is convinced, saying he saw "my handkerchief in's [in his] hand" repeating
again "I saw the handkerchief" (Line 65).
Desdemona says that Cassio must have found it then, saying "I never gave it [to]
him", again telling Othello to speak to Cassio to learn this truth (Line 67).
Othello now surprises Desdemona by saying, "He hath confess'd" (he has confessed),
(Line 68). Desdemona asks to what?
Othello now tells her "That he hath us'd [used] thee [you]" (Line 70).
Desdemona asks how, Othello explaining that Cassio can no longer speak, Cassio has
seen to it (killed him), (Line 72).
Desdemona is surprised, saying "What! is he dead?" (Line 73).
Othello explains that he is and now Desdemona says something that angers Othello.
Desdemona: "Alas! he is betray'd [betrayed] and I undone" (Line 76).
Hearing this Othello exclaims, "Out, strumpet! Weep'st [weep] thou for him to my
face? (Out strumpet! Would you dare weep for him before me?), (Line 77).
Fearing danger, Desdemona pleads " O! banish me, my lord, but kill me not!" (Line
78).
Infuriated, Othello tells her "Down, strumpet!" (Line 79), Desdemona pleading that if
Othello must kill her, let it be tomorrow so she may live tonight (Line 80). Othello,
however only replies "Being done, there is no pause" by which he means his actions
can no longer be delayed (Line 82).
Desdemona tries one last time to stall Othello by asking to say one prayer first, but
Othello, saying, "It is too late" (Line 83) proceeds to smother or suffocate
Desdemona...
Emilia now yells to Othello, "My lord, my lord!" (Line 84) but Othello ignores her,
determined to finish strangling the life from his wife.
Finally, Emilia's shouting receives Othello's attention, and Othello ponders whether to
let Emilia in; she will certainly want to speak with his wife, telling her about Cassio's
death.
Noticing that his wife is "Still as the grave" (Line 93), Othello again worries what
Emilia will say to his wife before remembering he has no wife; she is after all dead he
reminds himself in a confused dialogue that vividly makes clear that Othello is no
longer coherent but rather crazed and disorganized in thought (Lines 89 -103).
With his wife apparently dead, Othello asks Emilia "What's the matter with thee [you]
now?" (Line 104). Emilia tells Othello that Cassio, her lord has killed a young
Venetian called Roderigo. Learning that Cassio was not killed, Othello says "murder's
out of tune, / And sweet revenge grows harsh" (Line 113).
Desdemona, whom was thought dead, now murmurs "O! falsely, falsely murder'd"
(murdered), (Line 114). Noticing it is the cry of "my lady's voice:", Emilia again

panics begging her Desdemona to speak again. This Desdemona does, proclaiming
her innocence by saying "A guiltless death I die" (Line 120).
Emilia asks Desdemona who "hath done this deed?' (Who killed you) and Desdemona
again shows her true love for Othello by hiding Othello's guilt by saying "Nobody; I
myself; farewell:" asking Emilia to "Commend [praise] me to my kind lord" before
finally saying "O! farewell!" and dying (Lines 120-122).
Othello moves quickly to dispel any notion that he was responsible by asking Emilia
who killed Desdemona. When Emilia answers "Alas! who knows?" (Line 124),
Othello quickly replies "You heard her [Desdemona] say herself it was not I" (Line
125).
When Emilia says that she must now report the truth, Othello drops his short-lived lie,
telling Emilia "She's [Desdemona] like a liar gone to burning hell; / 'Twas I that kill'd
her" a line suggesting Othello is proud of the deed of punishing his wife's infidelity
(Line 127).
Emilia however knows the truth, saying, "O! the more angel she, / And you the
blacker devil " (Desdemona was innocent, you are the evil one), (Line 129).
Othello explains to Emilia that Desdemona was unfaithful to him but Emilia simply
criticizes Othello for not believing in his wife. (Lines 130- 131).
Othello in fact says Desdemona was as " false as water" (Line 132) and tells Emilia
that her husband knows the truth. Saying that "'twas [it was] he that told me first:",
Othello explains that according to Iago, Desdemona betrayed him (Line 146).
Emilia at first cannot believe this.
She courageously tells Othello to "Do thy worst [do your worse]:" before telling
Othello that "This deed of thine [yours] is no more worthy [of] heaven / Than thou
[you] wast [were] worthy [of] her" by which Emilia means Othello's murder of
Desdemona was no less worthy of heaven than he was worthy of her since Emilia
knows her friend was innocent and loyal loving wife (Lines 157-158).
Bravely Emilia continues to stand up for Desdemona against Othello before finally
shouting "The Moor [Othello] has kill'd [killed] my mistress! Murder! murder!" (Line
165).
This shouting is effective since Montano, Gratiano, Iago and others now enter. Emilia
insults her husband for his role in Desdemona's death and slowly the truth comes out
(Lines 166-168).
Iago claims only to have told Othello what his honest opinion was but Emilia refuses
to let her husband get away with this, forcing Iago to admit that he told Othello that
Cassio was sleeping with his wife (Line 175).
At first this does not worry Iago but Emilia's growing contempt for Iago starts to scare
him, such that he orders Emilia to leave (Line 192).
Emilia however will not leave without justice. Saying it is her duty to obey her
husband, she adds that this time she cannot and tells Iago she will never go home to
him again (Lines 193-194).

Othello now falls on the bed crying "O!O!O!" signifying remorse, guilt and possibly
that he might now realize what he has done (Line 196).
Gratiano only says that he is glad Desdemona's father Brabantio is dead and cannot
see this terrible sight since it would break his heart to see her now (Lines 202-208).
Othello though makes it clear to us that he still believes Iago, he will clutch to this
truth since to be wrong would mean he murdered his beautiful, virtuous loving wife
for no reason.
He recounts his major the proof now, the handkerchief (Lines 208- 214).
Emilia however will not go away despite Iago's continued urgings. Finally Iago
threatens to stab Emilia if she does not go home.
This however puts Iago into disrepute with Gratiano who questions Iago threatening
his sword against a woman.
Emilia now protected, tells Othello the truth. Calling him "dull [stupid] Moor!",
Emilia explains that she found Desdemona's handkerchief and gave it to Iago since
Iago had persistently urged Emilia to steal it for him if she ever had a chance (Lines
222-226).
Hearing this, a scared Iago calls Emilia a "Villanous whore!" but Emilia insists that
what she says is true.
Iago now says his wife is lying, keen to protect himself but Emilia again sticks to her
guns and assures all present that she is not lying. Additionally she finds time to scold
Othello by asking "what should a fool [Othello] / Do with so good a wife
[Desdemona]?", (Line 232).
Othello realizing the truth now, runs for Iago but Iago stabs Emilia and escapes,
exiting our view...
Knowing she is dead, Emilia asks to be laid by her mistress's (Desdemona) side and
Montano, knowing that Iago is evil, tells Gratiano to kill him if he has a chance, since
he certainly will (Lines 234-240).
Montano and Gratiano now exit and Othello starts to realize the full weight of what he
has done (Lines 241-243).
Emilia remembering Desdemona's willow song, sings it since she wishes to "die in
music:-" and she starts singing "Willow, willow, willow" before telling Othello,
"Moor [Othello], she was chaste; she lov'd thee [you], cruel Moor;" before finally
dying (Line 248).
Realizing he has another sword in his chamber, Othello quickly finds it (Lines 250253).
Gratiano reappears and Othello explains that his life no longer has meaning, saying
"Here is my journey's end," (Line 266) a reference meaning he knows his life is now
finished (Lines 258-281).
Lodovico, Montano, Cassio carried in a chair and the prisoner Iago now appear.
Othello seizing his opportunity wounds Iago but now Lodovico has Othello's sword
removed from him. Iago explains that he bleeds but will not die (Line 187).

Lodovico now expresses dismay that Othello, a man so good has now "Fall'n [fallen]
in [into] the practice of a damned slave," (Line 290) and asks what will be said of
Othello now?
Othello replies that if anything it was an honorable murder if you will, since as he
explains, he did none of it in hate, "but all in honour" (Line 294).
Lodovico, wanting to get to the bottom of all this, quickly learns from Othello that he
and Iago did plot Cassio's death and though Iago is defiant and proud of his actions,
refusing to say more, Lodovico quickly reveals letters in the slain Roderigo's pocket
that reveal Cassio was to be killed by Roderigo (Lines 296-316).
Cassio tells Othello he did nothing to deserve this, Othello asking for Cassio's pardon
or forgiveness.
Cassio explains to Othello that he found his wife's handkerchief in his bedchamber
and that Iago has confessed that he placed it there for special purpose (to fool Othello
of course), (Lines 316-322).
Othello realizing his stupidity, curses himself saying, "O fool! fool! fool!" (Line 322).
Quickly, Lodovico places Cassio in charge of Cypress, telling him he may do with
Iago as he sees fit, saying "For this slave, / If there be any cunning cruelty / That can
torment him much and hold him long, / It shall be his" (if there is any torture that will
both torment him greatly but let him live long, it is his), (Line 332).
Now after making his last wishes clear to Lodovico (Lines 337-354), Othello stabs
himself and falling on top of his again beloved wife, dies saying "I kiss'd thee ere I
kill'd thee; no way but this," falling upon Desdemona and finishing with the words,
"Killing myself to die upon a kiss" (Line 356).
Cassio explains that he thought Othello had no weapons on him and Lodovico insults
the still alive Iago, and tells Gratiano that he now has Othello's assets and places
Cassio in charge of Iago.
Lodovico ends the play by stressing the enormity of the task of rebuilding ahead of
them, saying, "Myself will straight aboard [abroad], and to the state / This heavy act
with heavy heart relate" (I will head off for abroad and will with heavy heart, relate to
the state what has sadly happened here).