Act 1
Why is Iago angry with Othello at the beginning of the play?
He is angry because Othello promoted Cassio instead of him.
Why did Iago want Roderigo to anger Cassio?
He wanted Roderigo to anger Cassio so Cassio would fight and lose his position.
What does Desdemona promise to do?
What is get Cassio his job back
How did Iago trick Othello into thinking Cassio was gloating and bragging about his affair with Desdemona?
Iago had Othello overhear Cassio talking about Bianca, but Othello misinterpreted it as Cassio boasting about Desdemona.
Who is Iago?
This character is honest in appearance but manipulative and evil in reality.
How does Iago manipulate Roderigo in Scene 1?
He manipulates Roderigo by pretending to be his friend and convincing him to sell his land and give him money to win Desdemona.
Why did Iago want Cassio to drink more wine?
Iago encouraged Cassio to drink more so that he would become drunk and behave irresponsibly.
How does Emilia plan to help in Iago's scheme?
What is steals the handkerchief
Why was Bianca angry with Cassio?
Bianca was angry because Cassio gave her a handkerchief that belonged to Desdemona, making her feel jealous and disrespected.
Who is Desdemona?
This character loves Othello sincerely and remains faithful despite his growing suspicion.
What is Brabantio’s accusation against Othello?
He accuses Othello of using witchcraft to make Desdemona fall in love with him.
Why is Cassio is demoted?
What is Iago tricks him into getting drunk, Roderigo fights with him, Montano tries to break it up, then Cassio stabs Montano
What are the ways that Iago proves that Desdemona is unfaithful?
What is handkerchief, Cassio's dream, the Desdemona and Cassio talk to each other, and Cassio's conversation about Bianca (Othello thinks it is about Desdemona).
Why did Othello hit Desdemona?
Othello hit Desdemona out of jealousy, believing Iago’s lies that she had been unfaithful with Cassio.
What is an example of Othello’s jealousy controlling his behavior?
Othello says he will “tear her all to pieces” after Iago convinces him of Desdemona’s infidelity.
How does Iago and Brabantio show their racist attitudes towards Othello.
What is Iago calls Othello an animal and Brabantio calls him a devil, sorcerer, and witchcraft.
Describe Iago and Emilia's relationship?
What is Iago is very rude to Emilia and women in general. He also suspects that she is untrue to him. Emilia is a good wife to Iago and tries to please him.
Where did Othello get the handkerchief and what does it symbolize?
What is Othello's mother gave it to him, it was made by an Egyptian psychic who told her if it was lost, than her love will be doomed.
: Describe how Bianca’s actions unintentionally contribute to Othello’s jealousy.
Bianca returns the handkerchief that Cassio gave her, which Iago uses as “proof” of Desdemona’s unfaithfulness.
What is her explanation for loving Othello honestly?
Desdemona says she loves Othello “for the dangers I have passed” and his life experiences.
Through which character is the theme of appearance versus reality introduced?
Iago shwos the theme of appearance versus reality is introduced mainly through this character’s deception.
What does Iago observe about Cassio and Desdemona? Why is he glad?
He observes that they are good friends. Also that Cassio comforts Desdemona by holding her hand. He is happy because he will be able to twist the story and make it seem as if they are in a relationship to othello
What does Iago say of women in Venice? Why might Othello not dismiss this comment right away?
Iago says they are users and have loose morals. Othello doesn't dismiss this comment right away because he is starting to buy into Iago's words.
How does Iago’s manipulation highlight the theme of trust and betrayal?
Iago betrays Othello’s trust while appearing honest, showing how easily trust can be exploited.
Identify one metaphor or image Iago uses to inflame Othello’s jealousy. What effect does it have?
Iago compares jealousy to a “monster,” making Othello feel consumed and unable to control his emotions.