Plot Events
Where does Act 2 take place?
Cyprus.
What does Iago suggest Cassio do to regain Othello’s favour?
Appeal to Desdemona for help.
What theme emerges in Iago’s view of women during Act 2 Scene 1?
Misogyny / Gender roles.
Who says: “Reputation, reputation, reputation! O, I have lost my reputation!”
Cassio
Why is Roderigo upset in Act 2 Scene 1?
He thinks Desdemona is in love with Cassio.
Why is there celebration when the ships arrive safely?
The Turkish fleet has been destroyed by a storm
How does Cassio greet Desdemona on arrival?
He praises her beauty and virtue.
Which theme is introduced when Iago tells Roderigo to provoke Cassio?
Manipulation / Deception
Who says: “I’ll pour this pestilence into his ear”?
Iago
What advice does Iago give Roderigo about Cassio?
To provoke him into a fight to discredit him.
What happens to Cassio during the brawl in Act 2 Scene 3?
He is stripped of his rank as lieutenant.
What is Montano’s role in Cyprus?
Governor before Othello takes command.
How is the theme of honour explored when Cassio laments his drunken brawl?
He equates honour with reputation and feels dishonoured without it.
“You rise to play, and go to bed to work.”
Iago (to Emilia)
What celebration takes place in Act 2 Scene 2?
Othello’s marriage and the victory over the Turks.
How does Iago plan to use Cassio’s downfall to ruin Othello?
By making it appear that Desdemona is pleading for Cassio out of love, fuelling Othello’s jealousy.
How does Iago portray himself during the investigation of the brawl?
As reluctant but honest, seeming loyal to Othello.
What role does Emilia play in Act 2?
A minor presence, but reveals Iago’s bitterness towards her.
Who says “Divinity of hell!”
Iago
Who does Cassio injure during the fight?
Montano.
How does Iago mock women during his conversation with Desdemona and Emilia?
He says women are deceptive and chatter too much.
How does Othello describe Iago during the investigation?
“Honest Iago.”
How does the storm in Act 2 connect to the play’s themes?
Symbolises chaos, fate, and foreshadows the disruption in Othello’s marriage.
Who says “O thou invisible spirit of wine, if thou hast no name to be known by, let us call thee devil!”
What does Iago call his plan at the end of Act 2?
A “monstrous birth” that will bring Othello’s downfall.