Iago’s Deception
This character is the primary target of Iago’s manipulation, as he convinces him that his wife is unfaithful.
Who is Othello?
Iago exploits this destructive emotion, which ultimately leads to Othello’s downfall.
What is jealousy?
In her conversation with Iago, Desdemona pushes back against his cynical views on women, showing that she does not fully conform to this societal expectation.
What is female submission?
In Iago’s soliloquy, the word “knavery” means this.
What is deceit or trickery?
Iago repeatedly questions Othello’s ability to control his emotions, challenging this aspect of his identity.
What is his masculinity?
Iago claims he loves Desdemona, but his real motivation is this.
What is revenge?
The play explores the contrast between appearance and reality, a theme highlighted by Iago’s repeated use of this term to describe himself.
What is "honest"?
Iago frequently degrades his wife, referring to her as foolish, reflecting societal views on this.
What is misogyny?
When Emilia says Bianca’s jealousy “dissipates,” she means it does this.
What is fades away?
Cassio’s concern about losing his position as lieutenant reflects the pressure men face to maintain this.
What is reputation?
Iago’s soliloquies reveal his deceptive nature because he does this while appearing loyal to Othello.
What is pretending to be honest and trustworthy?
Brabantio assumes Desdemona could not have chosen Othello of her own free will, showing the patriarchal belief that women lack this as an ongoing struggle throughout the play.
What is autonomy?
Iago tells Desdemona that all women are either deceivers or useless, reinforcing the idea that women are judged unfairly compared to men, which reflects this societal issue.
What is gender inequality in relationships?
When Iago says “I’ll have our Michael Cassio on the hip,” he means he will do this.
What is gain control over Cassio?
Othello’s belief in Desdemona’s infidelity is tied to his fear of losing this.
What is honor?
Iago suggests that Cassio and Desdemona have a romantic connection by making this observation about their interaction.
What is that Cassio takes Desdemona’s hand?
Iago claims that all women, regardless of their status, share this flaw, reinforcing a gender double standard.
What is deceitfulness or manipulation?
Desdemona initially defends her right to choose her husband, but by marrying Othello, her obedience shifts from her father to her husband, reflecting this societal structure.
What is patriarchal authority shift?
In Othello, the word “perdition” refers to this ultimate fate.
What is eternal damnation?
When Iago describes the “perfect woman,” he suggests that a woman’s value is based on her obedience and beauty, reinforcing this societal expectation about men’s control over women.
What is patriarchal dominance?
This phrase from Iago’s soliloquy describes how he intends to make Othello suffer emotionally.
What is "put the Moor at least into a jealousy so strong that judgment cannot cure"?
Iago’s manipulation of Cassio and Othello illustrates this theme, showing how masculinity is tied to status and perception.
What is toxic masculinity or fragile masculinity?
Shakespeare contrasts Desdemona and Emilia’s friendship with the manipulative friendships among men, reinforcing this feminist theme.
What is female solidarity?
Iago calls Roderigo “poor trash of Venice,” using this literary device to degrade him.
What is an insult or derogatory metaphor?
Desdemona playfully challenges Iago’s views on women, showing that she does not fully accept his ideas about how men should maintain this over women.
What is authority or control?