Shakespeare-Othello notes

Seite 1

SUMMARIES

ACT 1 SCENE 1

Conflict is introduced in this opening scene, opening with the two characters Roderigo & Iago. Roderigo is unhappy with Iago for failing to promote his marriage to Desdemona.

Iago is disappointed due to the fact that Cassio, who Iago describes as being a “GREAT ARITHMETICIAN”, someone with little practical experience of soldiering received the promotion as a lieutenant from Othello.

Iago makes clear that he will follow Othello to “serve” his turn upon him in an attempt of revenge.

Iago’s duplicitous nature is revealed in this scene through his clear statement “I AM NOT WHAT I AM”.

The first action of revenge occurs. Iago and Roderigo agree to wake Brabantio up, Desdemona’s father to inform him of her marriage to Othello.

Iago escapes however, in order to remain “loyal” to Othello, effectively deceiving the characters in not believing he is against Othello whatsoever.

A group of armed men and Brabantio search for Othello.

ACT 1 SCENE 2

Iago’s pretended loyalty is designed to evoke trust and favourable opinion. By focusing on issues that will trouble Othello, Iago makes an attempt to lower Othello’s confidence.

Othello’s self-awareness and hubris (pride) is shown through his certainty that his status and reputation will protect him. “MY PARTS, MY TITLE, AND MY PERFECT SOUL SHALL MANIFEST ME RIGHTLY”.

Conflict unfolds even further in this scene with both the threat of war between the Turks and Cyprus and Brabantio’s accusations of Othello bewitching his daughter.

Brabantio wants to go to the council meeting to inform the Duke of Othello’s “treacherous” behaviour.

ACT 1 SCENE 3