Section A Questions.

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Explore the significance of this extract in relation to tragedy in the play as a whole. TIMED 25 MINS.

Act 1 Scene 1.

This extract is from Act 1 Scene 1. This involves the beginning of Iago's deception towards other characters, in this scene, particularly Brabantio. As a consequence of this scene, we begin to see the unfolding of Iago's true character, in the form of his deceit. Othello is later questioned because of this scene, as Iago tells Brabantio that Othello is sleeping with Desdemona. There are 3 main tragic elements present within this extract, these being deception, suffering and violence.

Deception is a prevalent theme, not only within this extract, but throughout the play as a whole. To begin with, Iago states that he "follows him to serve my turn upon him". This quote helps to demonstrate how Iago is simply just using Othello to get what he wants, which is his role as Duke. Iago's deceit is made more blatant when he says "I am not what I am." This shows how Iago is a character who does not like to present his true persona, as he is hiding his true identity. Deception becomes the main focal point later in the play as Iago begins to manipulate Othello by using the handkerchief and Desdemona. The fact that Iago repeats the word "thieves" emphasises the severity of the issue, almost being hyperbolic in a sense. This is the beginning of the deception of Othello, as he now starts to manipulate his way to the top.

Suffering is a prevalent theme, not only within this extract, but throughout the play as a whole. This is displayed by the fact that Iago shouts "Thieves! Thieves! Thieves!". The word "Thieves" insinuates that something has been stolen, and since he is referring to Desdemona as the "thing" being stolen, it shows how Iago is objectifying women as being the property of their fathers. This shows how women suffer, as they are constantly objectified and seen in a misogynistic light throughout the play. This is further strengthened by the use of the character, Bianca. Bianca is a character who is portrayed as a promiscuous young lady, and is constantly referred to as a "whore." The use of words such as "poison", "incense" and "plague" show connotations of death or serious injury, and are all ways to ruin the life of Othello.

Violence is a prevalent theme, not only within this extract, but throughout the play as a whole. This is displayed by the fact that Iago says "whip me such honest knaves." The word "whip" almost connotes serious violence to get what he wants, abusing his power to get his own way.

In conclusion, this extract shows the beginning of the suffering and deception of Othello, and Desdemona, as Iago begins his plan by telling Brabantio, in a melodramatic manner, that Othello and Desdemona are married and living together. This then allows Iago to follow through with his plan and deceive Othello.