LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.

Othello
Apples" narrated by Scheherezade in the Thousand and One
INTR
INTRO
O Nights.
BRIEF BIOGRAPHY OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE
KEY FACTS
Shakespeare's father was a glove-maker, and Shakespeare
received no more than a grammar school education. He • Full Title: The Tragedy of Othello, the Moor of Venice
married Anne Hathaway in 1582, but left his family behind • When Written: c. 1603
around 1590 and moved to London, where he became an actor
• Where Written: England
and playwright. He was an immediate success: Shakespeare
soon became the most popular playwright of the day as well as • When Published: 1622
a part-owner of the Globe Theater. His theater troupe was • Literary Period: The Renaissance
adopted by King James as the King's Men in 1603. Shakespeare • Genre: Tragedy
retired as a rich and prominent man to Stratford-upon-Avon in • Setting: Venice and Cyprus
1613, and died three years later.
• Climax: The murder of Desdemona, by Othello
• Antagonist: Iago
HISTORICAL CONTEXT
From the eleventh to the fifteenth century, Catholics battled to EXTRA CREDIT
re-conquer Spain from the Islamic Arabs and Berbers, or
Moor or less? In Elizabethan England, the term "Moor" could
Moors, who had successfully occupied it since the 900s. The
be used to refer to a wide range of non-European persons,
struggle inspired intense prejudice and suspicion that lasted
including black Africans, North Africans, Arabs, and even
well after the Moors were overthrown. Philip III of Spain
Indians. References to Othello's origins throughout the play
expelled 300,000 "Moriscos" from the Iberian (Spanish)
are contradictory and ambiguous Iago calls Othello a "Barbary
peninsula not long after Shakespeare finished Othello, in 1609.
horse" (1.1.110); Barbary was an area in Africa between Egypt
In England during Shakespeare's time, views regarding "Moors"
and the Atlantic Ocean. Roderigo, however, calls him "thick-
were slightly more complex because of strong anti-Catholic
lips" (1.1.65-6), suggesting that he may come from further
sentiment in England and English fears of invasion by the
south on the African continent. Brabantio calls him "sooty"
Spanish. In fact, England maintained independent trade
(1.2.70); Othello, along with numerous other characters, refers
relationships with "Moorish" Northern Africa, despite Spanish
to himself as "black." It is impossible to know now exactly what
and Portuguese protest. The English slave trade also brought
Shakespeare or his audience would have thought a "Moor" is.
blacks to Europe, from mid-sixteenth century onward. Queen
Elizabeth herself founded The Barbary Company, formally
institutionalizing this trade; in addition, she received a
delegation of Moroccan diplomats in 1600. However, the
PL
PLO
OT SUMMARY
English still felt a strong suspicion of Islam: Elizabeth issued a In Venice, Roderigo complains to Iago that, despite the money
degree expelling Moors from Africa and Spanish "Moriscos" he's given Iago to help him woo Desdemona, she's eloped with
from the boundary of England in 1599 and 1601. the Moorish general Othello. Iago responds that he too hates
Othello, for whom he works as a standard-bearer: Othello
RELATED LITERARY WORKS chose Cassio, rather than Iago, to be his lieutenant. The two
Shakespeare's primary source for Othello was Un capitano moro men go to the home of Desdemona's father, the senator
("A Moorish Captain"), one of one hundred short stories in the Brabantio, and rouse him with graphic descriptions of his
collection Gli Hecatommithi, published by the Italian, Cinthio. daughter having sex with the Moor. Brabantio, enraged,
Cinthio's story provides the backbone for Shakespeare's plot, interrupts Othello as he receives an urgent message from the
although Shakespeare introduces some minor new characters Duke of Venice, and accompanies Othello see the Duke. In
(such as Brabantio and Roderigo) and other alterations—for front of the Duke, Brabantio accuses Othello of having used
instance, in Cinthio's version, Iago's motive for revenge against magic to seduce Desdemona. Othello responds that it was
stories of his exciting life history and military bravery that won
Othello is that he formerly loved and was rejected by
Desdemona. When summoned, Desdemona supports Othello's
Desdemona. There are also similarities between Othello, "A
story. Brabantio grudgingly blesses the newlyweds. The Duke
Moorish Captain," and a story by the name of "The Three
then sends Othello to lead a fleet of Venetians to defend

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 1

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.
Cyprus from a Turkish attack. Desdemona accompanies him. Meanwhile, Iago goes to Bianca's; finding Cassio wounded, he
Iago reassures Roderigo that he will still win Desdemona in the stabs Roderigo, killing him (and thus assuring that his secret
end, then privately admits that he's just using Roderigo for will not be revealed). Iago then calls the others, including
money while he plots his own revenge. Bianca, whom he arrests, accusing her of having conspired with
When the Venetians arrive in Cyprus, the governor Montano Roderigo. While this is going on, Othello arrives at
reports that a storm at sea has drowned the Turkish fleet, Desdemona's chamber. Enchanted by her beauty, he
eliminating the military threat. Iago quickly hatches a plan to nonetheless resists her pleas to spare her life, and he smothers
make Othello believe that Desdemona has been unfaithful to her with a pillow. Emilia arrives to tell Othello that Roderigo is
him with either Cassio or Roderigo. That night, while Othello dead and Cassio alive, when she hears Desdemona's dying
and Desdemona go to bed to consummate their marriage, Iago cries.
succeeds in getting Cassio drunk. He then goads Roderigo into When Emilia demands why Othello has killed Desdemona,
provoking Cassio, starting a brawl. Disgusted, Othello demotes Othello explains how Iago proved to him that Desdemona slept
Cassio. with Cassio. As Montana, Iago, and Gratiano, a relative of
Meanwhile, Iago convinces Desdemona to try to get Othello to Brabantio's all arrive, Emilia accuses Iago of lying and explains
reinstate Cassio. Iago then uses Desdemona's requests that he that she stole this from Desdemona at her husband's behest.
be merciful to Cassio to make Othello suspect that Desdemona Othello attacks Iago. In the uproar, Iago stabs and kills Emilia,
is cheating on him with Cassio. Othello, takes the bait, then flees. Montano and Gratiano disarm Othello, then chase
repeatedly praising Iago for his honesty. Later, when down Iago. When he is dragged back in their custody, Othello
Desdemona accidentally drops a handkerchief that Othello had wounds him before being disarmed again. Letters found on
given to her as a love-token, Emilia gives it to Iago, who had Roderigo's corpse reveal the full extent of Iago's plots; he
long asked her to steal it for him. Iago then plants it in Cassio's himself refuses to explain himself. Othello draws a hidden
room. dagger and, after a speech, kills himself.
Othello, upset, demands that Iago show him proof of
Desdemona's infidelity. Iago responds that he has heard Cassio CHARA
CHARACTERS
CTERS
fantasize lewdly about Desdemona in his sleep and that he has
seen Cassio wipe his mouth with Desdemona's handkerchief. Othello – A Christian Moor who has earned a high reputation
Othello promotes Iago to the status of lieutenant and orders as a general in the Venetian army and has recently married
him to kill Cassio within three days. Othello then goes to Desdemona, daughter of the Venetian senator Brabantio.
Desdemona's room, and asks her for the handkerchief. Othello is characterized by his plainspoken, honest (perhaps
Desdemona, who had been searching for the handkerchief, even naïve) nature, which, together with his status as an
admits she can't find it. Othello storms off. Meanwhile, Cassio's outsider, leaves him vulnerable to the plots of his standard-
mistress, the prostitute Bianca, comes to his quarters. Cassio bearer, Iago, to make him suspect his loyal wife, Desdemona, of
asks her to make a copy of a handkerchief he's recently found in infidelity.
his room, because he admires it. Gr
Graziano
aziano – A kinsman of Brabantio who accompanies Lodovico
Iago continues to spur Othello's jealousy. When he reports that from Venice to Cyprus.
Cassio has admitted to sleeping with Desdemona, Othello falls Iago – Othello's disloyal standard-bearer and the villain of the
into an epileptic fit. Iago urges Othello to hide while he play. Angry at having been passed over by Othello for
questions Cassio about Desdemona. In fact, he asks Cassio promotion to the rank of lieutenant, and also because he seems
about Bianca, causing Cassio to laugh. Watching from afar, to enjoy creating mayhem for its own sake, Iago develops an
Othello grows increasingly furious. Then, Bianca shows up, and intricate conspiracy to ruin Othello. He is married to Emilia.
throws Desdemona's handkerchief at Cassio, accusing him of
having it from another whore. After Cassio and Bianca leave, Desdemona – The Daughter of the Venetian senator
Iago easily persuades Othello to kill Desdemona. Iago promises Brabantio. Having been charmed by Othello's tales of exotic
to take care of Cassio himself. He then convinces Roderigo that lands and military exploits, Desdemona elopes with him before
if Cassio were to die, Othello would have to remain in Cyprus, the play begins (although they do not consummate their
leaving Desdemona in Venice for Roderigo. Iago instructs marriage until they have received sanction from the Duke and,
Roderigo to wait outside Bianca's house that night and kill reluctantly, her father). Desdemona is a model wife, if perhaps
Cassio when he leaves. too trusting of Iago. She follows Othello to Cyprus and shows
constant loyalty to him, even to the moment of death, when he
That night, Iago sets Roderigo up to kill Cassio as planned.
kills her on false suspicions that she has been unfaithful.
When Cassio exits Bianca's house, Roderigo attacks him; both
are wounded. Overhearing Roderigo's cries for help, Othello Michael Cassio – A young, charming, and handsome soldier,
believes that Cassio is dead and is impressed by Iago's loyalty. whom Othello promotes to the rank of lieutenant, over the

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 2

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.
more experienced Iago. Cassio is loyal to Othello and friendly other things, "Barbary horse" and "thick lips." In nearly every
with Desdemona, though he's unkind to the prostitute Bianca, case, the prejudiced characters use terms that describe Othello
who seems to love him. While intelligent, he is not cunning, and as an animal or beast. In other words, they use racist language
Iago easily ensnares the unwitting Cassio in a plot to convince to try to define Othello not only as an outsider to white
Othello that Desdemona has cheated on him with Cassio. Venetian society, but as being less human and therefore less
Roderigo – A long-rejected suitor of Desdemona, who seeks to deserving of respect. Othello himself seems to have
woo her with jewels through the Iago as. Like Othello, internalized this prejudice. On a number of occasions he
Roderigo trusts Iago and is duped by him. Otherwise, Roderigo describes himself in similarly unflattering racial terms. And
shares none of Othello's noble characteristics. when he believes that he has lost his honor and manhood
through Desdemona's supposed unfaithfulness, he quickly
Br
Brabantio
abantio – A senator in Venice and Desdemona's father. At becomes the kind of un-rational animal or monster that the
first enraged by Desdemona's elopement with Othello, he does white Venetians accuse him of being.
eventually grant a grudging blessing to their marriage. But his
blessing never seems heartfelt, and he dies of grief shortly after Yet racial prejudice is not the only prejudice on display in
their departure for Cyprus (and before any of the tragedies of Othello. Many characters in the play also exhibit misogyny, or
the play occur). hatred of women, primarily focused on women's honesty or
dishonesty about their sexuality. Several times, Othello's age is
Emilia – Iago's wife and Desdemona's friend and serving also a reason for insulting him. In all of these cases, the
woman. Although Emilia is far less idealistic about marriage and characters displaying prejudice seek to control and define
the world in general than Desdemona is, she is loyal to her another person or group who frighten them. In other words,
mistress. Though she steals Desdemona's handkerchief for prejudice works as a kind of strategy to identify outsiders and
Iago, she doesn't know else anything about Iago's plot. In fact, insiders and to place yourself within the dominant group. And
when she learns of his plot, she reveals Iago's duplicity, and he Othello himself seems to understand this—he concludes his
kills her for it. suicide speech by boasting that he, a Christian, once killed a
Bianca – A prostitute in Cyprus, who expresses real affection Muslim Turk, a "circumcised dog" (5.2.355) who had murdered
for Cassio. He, however, only mocks her. a Venetian citizen. Othello tries to use religious prejudice
Duk
Dukee of V
Venice
enice – The official authority in Venice, the Duke has against Muslims to cement his place within mainstream
great respect for Othello as a military man and, unlike the other Christian Venetian society.
residents of Venice, does not betray any racial prejudice against
Othello and, in fact, is unsurprised that Desdemona fell in love 2 APPEARANCE VS. REALITY
with him. It is the Duke who sends Othello to lead the Venetian The tragic plot of Othello hinges on the ability of the villain,
mission to defend Cyprus against the Turks. Iago, to mislead other characters, particularly Roderigo and
Lodo
odovico
vico – A relative of Brabantio's, Lodovico acts as an Othello, by encouraging them to misinterpret what they see.
emissary, bringing letters from Venice to Cyprus. He is present Othello is susceptible to Iago's ploys because he himself is so
on the island for the full unfolding of the tragedy. honest and straightforward. As Iago puts it: "the Moor is of a
Montana – The governor or Cyprus before Othello's arrival. free and open nature/ That thinks men honest that but seem to
be so; and will as tenderly be led by th' nose/ As asses are"
Clown – Othello's fool/servant. Although he appears in only
(2.1.391-4)
two short scenes, his riddling language reflects Othello's own
language as the Moor descends into jealous madness. In Othello, Shakespeare plays with the idea of unreliable reality
in a number of ways. The language of the play, which time and
again refers to dreams, trances, and vision, constantly
THEMES highlights the way in which what seems to be real may actually
be fake. In addition, Shakespeare extends the theme of
In LitCharts each theme gets its own color and number. Our appearance vs. reality to include the art of playwriting and
color-coded theme boxes make it easy to track where the acting. As he develops his plot against Othello, Iago creates
themes occur throughout the work. If you don't have a color scenes within scenes. He sets up encounters between two
printer, use the numbers instead. characters and putting a third in the position of a spectator. For
instance, he has Othello watch Cassio and Desdemona speak,
1 PREJUDICE and he has Othello watch him speak with Cassio about Bianca.
The most prominent form of prejudice on display in Othello is In each case, Iago manipulates Othello so that Othello sees the
racial prejudice. In the very first scene, Roderigo and Iago appearance that Iago wants him to see, rather than the reality
disparage Othello in explicitly racial terms, calling him, among of what is actually happening. In this way, Iago becomes a kind
of "director"—he even directly addresses the audience through

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 3

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.
his many soliloquies—and Shakespeare draws attention to the words, without his honor, he sees himself in the same terms
way that a playwright and actors create an appearance onstage that the prejudiced characters see him: as an animal.
that tricks the audience into seeing something other than
reality. 5 WOMANHOOD AND SEXUALITY
Two contrasting images of womanhood dominate Othello: the
3 JEALOUSY virtuous and loyal woman, or Madonna, embodied by
Iago refers to jealousy as the "green-eyed monster." As this Desdemona; and the whore, embodied, to a certain extent by
metaphor suggests, jealousy is closely associated with the Bianca. Yet over the course of the play, it becomes clear that
theme of appearance and reality. For instance, at one point these two different ways of describing women don't actually
Othello demands that Iago provide "ocular proof" of apply to real women. Instead, they are male fantasies imposed
Desdemona's infidelity—he demands to see reality. But Iago on women—ideals that men want woman to fulfill, and roles
instead provides the circumstantial evidence of the that women therefore purposefully play for men. For instance,
handkerchief, which Othello, consumed by his jealousy, accepts Desdemona often describes her devotion to Othello in front of
as a substitute for "ocular proof." Othello's jealousy impedes his other people, underscoring that, even though she does love him
ability to distinguish between reality and appearance. While the very deeply, she is to a certain extent playing the role of the
prejudiced characters in the play denigrate Othello as an animal virtuous wife. Iago then stokes Othello's jealousy in part by
or a beast based on his race, Othello's obvious honor and forcing Othello to realize that there is no way for a man to tell
intelligence makes these attacks obviously ridiculous. Yet when the difference between a truly virtuous wife and one who is just
Othello is overcome by jealousy, he does become beast-like, playing the role of virtuous wife while actually acting as a
falling into epileptic fits that rob him of the ability to speak whore and being unfaithful.
intelligibly. Meanwhile, Iago's wife, Emilia, complicates the simple contract
Othello is also not the only character in Othello to feel jealousy. between the Madonna and the whore. Initially, she wants to
Both Iago and Roderigo act to destroy Othello out of jealousy, please her husband—and does so by stealing Desdemona's
with disastrous consequences. handkerchief, knowing that he has long hankered after it. Yet
she is not wholly loyal, and even tells Desdemona in 4.3 that
4 MANHOOD AND HONOR she believes many women, including she herself, would cheat
on their husbands under certain circumstances. And, finally, she
Throughout the play, various male figures seek to assert and
proves her own, independent virtue by defending Desdemona's
protect their manhood and their honor. Based on the Duke's
virtue and revealing her husband's crimes in the process. So
regard for him in 1.3, it is clear that Othello has attained
while womanhood in Othello is, therefore, often defined by men
political power through his military might. The subplot in which
in terms of pure virtue or voracious and deceptive sexuality, the
Iago gets Cassio drunk and causes him to humiliate himself, also
play ultimately shows that real women are far more complex.
indicates the importance of "reputation, reputation,
reputation." In fact, Cassio asserts that reputation is all that
makes you human ("I have lost the immortal part of myself, and SYMBOLS
what remains is bestial" [2.3.252-3]). Iago asserts—however
genuinely or disingenuously—that reputation is more valuable Symbols appear in red text throughout the Summary and
than anything in the world: "good name in man and woman [...] Analysis sections of this LitChart.
is the immediate jewel of their souls" (3.3.156).
Though military exploits are one way for men to build their THE HANDKERCHIEF
honor, when not in war the primary means by which men define
In European medieval and renaissance love poetry, the
their honor is their ability to command the faithfulness of their
handkerchief is typically a symbol for a woman's romantic favor.
women. In 1.1, Iago and Roderigo call Brabantio's honor into
For instance, there was a particular ritual in which a lady would
question because he hasn't been able to control the romantic
drop her handkerchief for a knight to pick up and keep as a
or sexual impulses of his daughter, Desdemona. Later, Iago
token of her regard. The handkerchief that Othello gives
drives Othello to question his own manhood—indeed, his very
Desdemona is, similarly, a love-token and therefore a symbol of
humanity—by making him doubt whether he has power over his
their love. But the handkerchief, which originally belonged to an
wife. In despair over his suspicions about his wife's faithfulness,
Egyptian sorcerer, also comes to symbolize the illusions that
Othello laments of himself: "A horned man's a monster and a
Iago is "casting" through his plotting and subterfuge.
beast" (4.2.62). That is, in his view, to lose control of the woman
in his life is to lose everything that makes him human. In other

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 4

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.
ANIMALS •Speak
•Speaker
er: Brabantio
Othello is rife with animal metaphors. In particular, this •Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Othello, Desdemona
language is used to describe Othello, the "Barbary horse," or •Related themes
themes: Prejudice, Appearance vs. Reality, Jealousy,
the "beautiful creature" Desdemona. In each case, the animal Womanhood and Sexuality
language is connected to prejudice. Describing a person or •Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code:
group in animal terms is a way of defining that person or group
as being less than human, something that deserves to be 1 2 3 5
humiliated and controlled.
ACT 1, SCENE 3 QUOTES
QUO
QUOTES
TES "Tis a pageant
To keep us in false gaze."
The color-coded and numbered boxes under each quote below
make it easy to track the themes related to each quote. Each •Related themes
themes: Appearance vs. Reality
color and number corresponds to one of the themes explained •Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code:
in the Themes section of this LitChart.
2
ACT 1, SCENE 1 QUOTES
"Preferment goes by letter and affection "Rude am I in my speech,
And not by old gradation, where each second And little bless'd with the soft phrase of peace:
Stood heir to the first." For since these arms of mine had seven years' pith,
Till now some nine moons wasted, they have used
•Speak
•Speaker
er: Iago Their dearest action in the tented field,
•Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Othello, Michael Cassio And little of this great world can I speak,
•Related themes
themes: Jealousy, Manhood and Honor More than pertains to feats of broil and battle,
And therefore little shall I grace my cause
•Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code:
In speaking for myself. Yet, by your gracious patience,
3 4 I will a round unvarnish'd tale deliver
Of my whole course of love."
•Speak
•Speaker
er: Othello
"When my outward action doth demonstrate
The native act and figure of my heart •Related themes
themes: Appearance vs. Reality, Manhood and Honor
In complement extern, tis not long after •Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code:
But I will wear my heart upon my sleeve
For daws to peck at. I am not what I am." 2 4
•Speak
•Speaker
er: Iago
•Related themes
themes: Appearance vs. Reality "I do perceive here a divided duty."
•Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code: •Speak
•Speaker
er: Desdemona

2 •Related themes
themes: Womanhood and Sexuality
•Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code:
ACT 1, SCENE 2 QUOTES 5
"Damned as thou art, thou hast enchanted her!
For I'll refer me to all things of sense,
If she in chains of magic were not bound, "The Moor is of a free and open nature
Whether a maid, so tender, fair, and happy, That thinks men honest that but seem to be so;
So opposite to marriage that she shunned And will as tenderly be led by th' nose
The wealthy curled darlings of our nation, As asses are."
Would ever have, t'incur a general mock, •Speak
•Speaker
er: Iago
Run from her guardage to the sooty bosom
•Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Othello
Of such a thing as thou—to fear, not to delight."

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 5

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.
•Related themes
themes: Prejudice, Appearance vs. Reality, Jealousy •Speak
•Speaker
er: Iago
•Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code: •Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Othello
•Related themes
themes: Prejudice
1 2 3
•Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code:
ACT 2, SCENE 1 QUOTES 1
"You may relish him more in the soldier than in the scholar."
•Speak
•Speaker
er: Michael Cassio "Oh heavy ignorance! Thou praisest the worst best."
•Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Iago •Speak
•Speaker
er: Desdemona
•Related themes
themes: Manhood and Honor •Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Iago
•Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code: •Related themes
themes: Appearance vs. Reality, Womanhood and
4 Sexuality
•Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code:

"I am not merry; but I do beguile 2 5

The thing I am by seeming otherwise."
•Speak
•Speaker
er: Desdemona ACT 2, SCENE 3 QUOTES
•Related themes
themes: Appearance vs. Reality "Notwithstanding, with my personal eye
Will I look to't."
•Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code:
•Speak
•Speaker
er: Michael Cassio
2
•Related themes
themes: Appearance vs. Reality
•Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code:
"If I were now to die,
Twere now to be most happy, for I fear 2
My soul hath her content so absolute
That not another comfort like to this
"Reputation, reputation, reputation! O, I have lost my
Succeeds in unknown fate."
reputation! I have lost the immortal part of myself, and what
•Speak
•Speaker
er: Othello remains is bestial."
•Related themes
themes: Appearance vs. Reality, Manhood and Honor, •Speak
•Speaker
er: Michael Cassio
Womanhood and Sexuality
•Related themes
themes: Manhood and Honor
•Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code:
•Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code:
2 4 5
4

"Her eye must be fed." ACT 3, SCENE 3 QUOTES

•Speak
•Speaker
er: Iago "On horror's head horrors accumulate."
•Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Desdemona •Speak
•Speaker
er: Othello
•Related themes
themes: Appearance vs. Reality •Related themes
themes: Jealousy, Manhood and Honor
•Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code: •Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code:
2 3 4

"I'll [...] make the Moor thank me, love me, and reward me "I am your own forever."
For making him egregiously an ass."

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 6

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.
•Speak
•Speaker
er: Iago "Good name in man and woman, dear my lord,
•Related themes
themes: Appearance vs. Reality Is the immediate jewel of their souls.
Who steals my purse steals trash; tis something, nothing;
•Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code:
Twas mine, tis his, and has been slave to thousands.
2 But he that filches from me my good name
Robs me of that which not enriches him
And makes me poor indeed"
"By heaven, thou echo'st me
•Speak
•Speaker
er: Iago
As if there were some monster in thy thought
Too hideous to be shown." •Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Othello
•Related themes
themes: Manhood and Honor, Womanhood and
•Speak
•Speaker
er: Othello
Sexuality
•Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Iago
•Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code:
•Related themes
themes: Appearance vs. Reality, Jealousy
•Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code: 4 5

2 3
"Haply, for I am black
And have not those soft parts of conversation
"O, beware, my lord, of jealousy! That chamberers have, or for I am declined
It is the green-eyed monster, which doth mock Into the vale of years – yet that's not much –
The meat it feeds on." She's gone."

•Speak
•Speaker
er: Iago •Speak
•Speaker
er: Othello
•Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Othello •Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Desdemona
•Related themes
themes: Appearance vs. Reality, Jealousy •Related themes
themes: Prejudice, Appearance vs. Reality, Jealousy
•Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code: •Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code:

2 3 1 2 3

"Excellent wretch! Perdition catch my soul "This fellow's of exceeding honesty,

But I do love thee! And when I love thee not, And knows all qualities, with a learned spirit
Chaos is come again." Of human dealings."

•Speak
•Speaker
er: Othello •Speak
•Speaker
er: Othello
•Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Iago •Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Iago
•Related themes
themes: Appearance vs. Reality •Related themes
themes: Appearance vs. Reality
•Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code: •Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code:

2 2

"This honest creature doubtless "Be sure of it; give me the ocular proof."
Sees and knows more, much more, than he unfolds."
•Speak
•Speaker
er: Othello
•Speak
•Speaker
er: Othello •Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Iago
•Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Iago •Related themes
themes: Appearance vs. Reality, Jealousy
•Related themes
themes: Appearance vs. Reality, Jealousy •Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code:
•Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code:
2 3
2 3

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 7

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.
ACT 4, SCENE 1 QUOTES "Demand me nothing. What you know, you know.
From this time forth I never will speak word."
"A horned man's a monster and a beast."
•Speak
•Speaker
er: Iago
•Speak
•Speaker
er: Othello
"When you shall these unlucky deeds relate,
•Related themes
themes: Appearance vs. Reality, Jealousy, Manhood
Speak of me as I am. Nothing extenuate,
and Honor, Womanhood and Sexuality
Nor set down aught in malice. Then must you speak
•Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code: Of one that loved not wisely, but too well;
Of one not easily jealous, but, being wrought,
2 3 4 5
Perplexed in the extreme; of one whose hand,
Like the base Judean, threw a pearl away
"Her honor is an essence that's not seen; Richer than all his tribe; of one whose subdued eyes
They have it very oft that have it not." Albeit unused to the melting mood,
Drops tears as fast as the Arabian trees
•Speak
•Speaker
er: Iago Their medicinable gum. Set you down this.
•Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Desdemona And say besides that in Aleppo once,
Where a malignant and a turbaned Turk
•Related themes
themes: Appearance vs. Reality, Womanhood and
Beat a Venetian and traduced the state,
Sexuality
I took by the throat the circumcised dog
•Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code: And smote him—thus."
2 5 •Speak
•Speaker
er: Othello
•Related themes
themes: Prejudice, Jealousy, Manhood and Honor
ACT 4, SCENE 2 QUOTES •Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code:
"O thou weed
Who art so lovely fair, and smell'st so sweet,
1 3 4
That the sense aches at thee, would thou hadst never been
born"
"Put out the light, and then put out the light.
•Speak
•Speaker
er: Othello If I quench thee, thou flaming minister,
I can again thy former light restore,
•Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Desdemona
Should I repent me; but once put out thy light,
"Upon my knee, what doth your speech import? Thou cuning'st pattern of excelling nature,
I understand a fury in your words I know not where is that Promethean heat
But not the words." That can thy light relume. When I have plucked thy rose,
•Speak
•Speaker
er: Desdemona I cannot give it vital growth again;
It must needs wither."
•Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Othello
•Speak
•Speaker
er: Othello
ACT 5, SCENE 2 QUOTES •Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Desdemona
"Had she been true, •Related themes
themes: Jealousy, Womanhood and Sexuality
If heaven would make me such another world •Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code:
Of one entire and perfect chrysolite
I'd not have sold her for it." 3 5
•Speak
•Speaker
er: Othello
•Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Desdemona "I told him what I thought, and told no more
Than what he found himself was apt and true."
•Related themes
themes: Manhood and Honor
•Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code: •Speak
•Speaker
er: Iago
•Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Othello
4
•Related themes
themes: Appearance vs. Reality

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 8

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.
•Theme T
Trrack
acker
er code
code: Iago and Roderigo go to the Brabantio thinks little of
house of Brabantio, a senator Roderigo. Iago, however, rallies
2 and Desdemona's father. They the white Brabantio on their side
shout from the street that by using prejudice as a tool,
Brabantio has been robbed. describing Othello as an animal
SUMMARY AND ANAL
ANALYSIS
YSIS Brabantio comes to the ("black ram") and sex with
window, but at first doesn't Desdoma as bestial. Iago also
The color-coded and numbered boxes under each row of
believe them because he makes use of the fact that
Summary and Analysis below make it easy to track the themes
recognizes Roderigo, whom he Brabantio will feel his manly
throughout the work. Each color and number corresponds to
has recently told to stop honor challenged by his
one of the themes explained in the Themes section of this
hanging around his house and daughter's having sex. Notice
LitChart.
pursuing Desdemona. But that Desdemona is also
then Iago, who doesn't give his described in animal terms. In her
ACT 1, SCENE 1 name and whom Brabantio case, the comparison is meant to
On a street in Venice, Italy, Roderigo's primary reason for doesn't recognize, graphically evoke purity, but it also indicates
Roderigo, a nobleman, and hating Othello is not racial describes Othello and that the men do not think of her
Iago are in the middle of an prejudice, but rather jealousy Desdemona having sex—he as an equal human being.
argument. Roderigo has paid that Othello has won says that "an old black ram is
Iago a lot of money to help him Desdemona. That Iago has not tupping your white ewe" 1 2 3 4 5
win the hand of Desdemona. managed to help Roderigo (1.1.88-89), calling Othello a
Yet he has just learned that despite being paid hints at his "Barbary horse" (1.1.110), and
Desdemona has eloped with duplicity. adds that "your daughter and
Othello, the Moorish (North the Moor are making the beast
African) general under whom 2 3 4 with two backs"(1.1.118).
Iago serves. Brabantio goes to search his The language of "dreams" plays
Iago assures Roderigo that he Iago has his own jealous motives house for his daughter, into the theme of appearance vs.
hates Othello, and explains for hating Othello. When he calls worried because he has had a reality. As does Iago's slipping
that Othello recently passed Cassio a "spinster," Iago is "dream" (1.1.140) anticipating away without giving away his
him over for a promotion to questioning Cassio's manhood, these events. Iago takes the identity, so he can continue to
lieutenant despite the fact that while also implying that just as chance to leave in order to plot against Othello.
he was Othello's ancient real men know how to fight, real keep his plot against Othello
(standard bearer) and had the women know how to have sex. A secret. 2
recommendations of three spinster is an old, unmarried Brabantio feels his manhood
Brabantio emerges from his
leading men of Venice. Instead, woman who has no experience of ruined by his daughter's
house without finding
Othello promoted Michael sex, just as the military theorist deception, and insists that
Desdemona. Furious,
Cassio, a man who in Iago's Cassio has no experience of Othello could only have
lamenting his life as wasted, he
estimation is just a "spinster" battle. unmanned him in this way by
says that his daughter has
(1.1.23) military theorist with been stolen by magic and that twisting reality through some
no practical experience in 3 4 5
he wishes she had married kind of sorcery. His change of
fighting or leading men. Roderigo. They set off to raise heart regarding Roderigo as the
Iago then adds that while he Iago here reveals his capacity to an armed search party and lesser of two evils reveals his
currently pretends to serve hide his feelings and motives so confront Othello. prejudice against Othello.
Othello, he is in fact just that his actions don't reveal
looking out for his own self- them. 1 2 4
interest: "In following him I but
follow myself [...] I am not what 2
I am" (1.1.57; 64).

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 9

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.
ACT 1, SCENE 2 ACT 1, SCENE 3
At the inn where Othello is Iago changes sides seamlessly. The Duke of Venice meets Games of illusion and
lodging, Iago tells Othello that He tries to provoke Othello by with his senators about a appearance play a serious role in
he wanted to stab Roderigo suggesting that Roderigo has Turkish invasion of Cyprus. politics and war as well as in
when he hears the things slighted his manly honor. But, at They manage to see through a jealousy and love.
Roderigo was saying about this point, Othello seems Turkish ploy to make it look as
Othello. He also warns Othello completely secure in himself, if the Turks will attack Rhodes 2
that Brabantio is likely to try immune to challenges to his instead of Cyprus. Then the
to legally force a divorce manhood. Duke and the Senators discuss
between Othello and how to repel the Turkish attack
Desdemona. Othello seems 2 4 on Cyprus.
unconcerned. Brabantio continues to insist,
Othello and Brabantio enter
Just then, they see a group of Othello knows that his honorable along with their men. based on common racial, that
men approaching. Iago says it military service will outweigh Brabantio demands that they Desdemona could never have
must be Brabantio and advises Brabantio's grievance. He's also cease discussing state been sexually drawn to someone
Othello to go inside. Othello the first character to speak of business and instead deal with of Othello's racial background in
refuses, preferring to face love. All the other men seem to the fact that his daughter has the absence of some kind of
them, saying he has dutifully think of women as something to been corrupted by spells and deception on his part. The Duke,
served the state of Venice and possess, not love. potions so that she would though, who needs Othello's
his conscience is clean: he marry a man she would never military leadership, is not so
loves Desdemona. 1 4 5 otherwise have considered. swayed by prejudice.
The Duke promises to help
The men turn out to be Cassio Cassio's news is proof that the 1 2 4
Brabantio prosecute the man
and servants of the Duke of state's need for Othello's military
who has seduced Desdemona,
Venice, sent to bring Othello leadership will outweigh any
but when he learns that the
to meet with the Duke racial prejudice against him.
accused man is Othello he
regarding an urgent military
4 gives Othello a chance to
issue in Cyprus (an island
defend himself.
protectorate of Venice).
Othello admits that he The truly remarkable story of
Iago then mentions to Cassio Brabantio gives full voice to his
married Desdemona. But he Othello's life, described by
that Othello has married. But injured sense of manhood by
denies using any magic to win Othello in plain language,
before he can say who Othello interweaving the language of
her love, and says that contrasts with the illusions that
has wed, Roderigo along with racial prejudice with horror at
Desdemona will support his Iago will later build out of flowery
Brabantio and his men arrive. interracial sexuality. He cannot
story. They send for her. As words. Yet note that Othello does
Brabantio states that Othello believe that things are as they
they wait for Desdemona to explicitly assert that storytelling
must have enchanted seem: that his daughter has
arrive, Othello says that has a seductive power, and Iago
Desdemona, or else why voluntarily eloped with a
Brabantio used to invite him to will indeed seduce Othello with
would she have gone "to the "sooty...thing."
his house to hear his life story, his inventions later on.
sooty bosom of such a thing as
1 2 4 5 with all its dramatic tales of
thou" (1.2.70-71). He orders 2 4
travel, battle, and valor. These
his men to seize Othello.
stories, Othello says, won
Othello is unfazed, tells Agreeing to go before the Duke's Desdemona's love. The Duke
everyone on both sides to put court of law, Othello remains comments that he thinks his
up their arms, and informs confident that his honorable own daughter might be won
Brabantio that he has been service will outweigh his outsider over by Othello's story.
called to meet with the Duke status.
on state business. Brabantio
decides to accompany Othello 1 4
to the Duke and air his
grievance there.

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 10

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.
Desdemona arrives. Desdemona asserts Iago and Roderigo are left In contrast to Roderigo's jealous
Brabantio asks his daughter to independence from her father alone. Roderigo, convinced his despair, Iago emphasizes his
whom she owes obedience. and obedience to Othello. chances with Desdemona are belief that you can make yourself
Desdemona responds that just Women in this society were now hopelessly lost, talks of whatever you like—a theme
as her own mother once had to always obedient to some man, or drowning himself. Iago mocks related to his confidence in his
shift her obedience from her at least were supposed to be. Roderigo for such silly own ability to direct everyone
own father to Brabantio, so Men who did not keep their sentimentality. Roderigo around him, tricking people into
must she shift her obedience women obedient were seen as responds that he can't stop doing exactly what he wants.
from Brabantio to Othello. At failures. himself from feeling so
this, Brabantio grudgingly miserable, but Iago disagrees, 2 3
gives up his grievance against 4 5 saying that a person can
Othello, and allows the control himself by sheer force
meeting to turn back to affairs of will. He tells Roderigo to
of state. follow them to Cyprus, where
he will make sure that
As discussion turns back to While she has both Othello and
Desdemona will end up with
fighting off the Turks, the Duke Brabantio backing her, here,
him—for a price. Roderigo
says that Othello must go to Desdemona continues to assert
exits.
Cyprus to lead its defense. her will in a highly public forum
Though the Duke at first among men. Alone, Iago delivers a soliloquy Iago lays out his plans to deceive
suggests that Desdemona stay in which he says again that he the other characters, putting
in Venice with her father, 4 5 hates the Moor. He notes that himself in the role of "director" of
Brabantio, Othello, and there are rumors that Othello a kind of play-within-the-play.
Desdemona all object, and the has slept with his wife, Emilia, While he suspects that Othello
Duke says that she may go and while he isn't at all sure has slept with his own wife, he
with Othello. that the rumors are true, he'll seems relatively indifferent to
act as if they're true. He says whether or not this is true: Iago
Brabantio exits, but not before Brabantio defines Desdemona's
that he will take Roderigo's derives his sense of self, his
warning Othello to watch independence as disloyalty to
money, and decides that he will manhood, from his ability to
Desdemona—since she men.
convince Othello that Cassio is manipulate others, rather than
disobeyed her father, she
4 5 having an affair with sexual pride. He suggests that
might disobey her husband.
Desdemona, and in so doing Othello's weakness is that he
Because Othello must leave Othello and Desdemona exhibit also get the position of doesn't understand that
for Cyprus that night, he devotion to each other, although lieutenant. He adds that appearance can hide reality. Not
decides that Desdemona not excessive sexual passion. Othello has a "free and open also that Iago seems to hold no
should follow after him in the Othello clearly has faith in Iago, nature" (1.3.380) and racial prejudice against Othello
care of Iago, and asks Iago to entrusting him with his wife. therefore thinks that anyone at all. He just uses prejudice
have his wife attend who seems honest actually is against Othello when it's helpful
Desdemona. Othello and 2 4 5 honest, and that he will use to him.
Desdemona then exit to spend this trait to lead Othello by the
their last few hours together nose. 2 3 4 5
before Othello must depart.

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 11

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.
ACT 2, SCENE 1 Cassio, courteous as always, Iago, in his "director" role, seems
takes Desdemona's hand and to directly address the audience.
From Cyprus, Montano, the In the early scenes of the play,
speaks with her privately for a He explains how he will use
governor of Cyprus, watches Othello is completely in
moment. Iago notices, and says "reality," Cassio taking
as a storm rages at sea. He command of himself, and the
that this little courtesy of Desdemona's hand, to spin an
states that he does not think idea that someone could
Cassio taking Desdemona's illusion—that Cassio and
the Turkish fleet could manipulate him seems almost
hand will be enough of a web Desdemona are having an affair.
withstand the storm, and a ludicrous. But Othello's self-
to "ensnare as great a fly as
moment later a gentleman possession is based on his 2 4 5
Cassio" (2.1.169) and strip
enters with the news that knowledge that his military
Cassio of his position as
Cassio has arrived, and that on leadership is needed by the state.
lieutenant.
his voyage to Cyprus, Cassio But the storm that destroys the
saw that the Turks lost so Turks also means that Othello's Othello arrives, in triumph. He With the Turks defeated, the
many ships in the storm that military leadership, the source of is overjoyed to see scene on Cyprus is domestic
Cyprus need not fear them. his manhood, is no longer Desdemona, and says that he rather than military. Othello and
Cassio soon arrives himself, necessary. is so happy and content he Desdemona continue to act out
and though glad of the defeat could die now. She responds their love for each other in front
of the Turks, he worries that 4 that, rather, their love and joy of all. Yet in commenting that he
Othello might himself have will only increase as they age. could happily die at this moment,
been lost at sea. Othello then thanks the people Othello unwittingly adds a dark
of Cyprus for their hospitality. tone to the love he shares with
The Venetian ship carrying Desdemona again demonstrates
He asks Iago to oversee the Desdemona.
Desdemona, Iago, Emilia her loyalty and love toward her
unloading of his ship, and he,
(Iago's wife), and Roderigo is husband. 1 2 4 5
Desdemona, and all but Iago
the next to arrive. As soon as
5 and Roderigo head to the
they arrive, Desdemona asks
castle to celebrate their
after Othello. When she hears
victory over the Turks.
that Cassio and Othello's ships
lost contact during the storm Iago tells Roderigo that In his plotting, Iago lies to
she worries—but just then Desdemona is bound to tire of everyone, all the time. Here he
Othello's ship is spotted Othello, and want instead gets Roderigo to dislike Cassio by
arriving at Cyprus. someone younger, more making Roderigo jealous of
handsome, and better- Cassio's chances with
As they wait for Othello to Iago expounds the prejudices
mannered. He says that it is Desdemona. Notice that Iago's
arrive, Iago and Desdemona against women and female
obvious who this man will description of Cassio is actually a
banter. Iago portrays all sexuality that he will later use to
be—Cassio, whom he good description of himself.
women, whether beautiful, manipulate Othello. Given the
describes to Roderigo as a
ugly, smart, or foolish, as comic tone of his banter with 2 3
knave and posturer who is
generally deceptive and sex- Desdemona, however, it's hard to
always looking out for his own
starved. But he also says that a tell how he "really" feels about
advantage.
woman with perfect virtue anything.
would be boring. Desdemona
defends women against him, 1 2 4 5
though she's clearly amused by
Iago.

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 12

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.
In fact, Iago says, Desdemona Iago continues to play on ACT 2, SCENE 3
already loves Cassio, and he Roderigo's jealousy. Roderigo had
Othello puts Cassio in charge Both Othello and Cassio wildly
asks if Roderigo noticed them in fact correctly interpreted the
during the celebration. He misjudge Iago, revealing just how
touching hands. Roderigo did, briefly touching hands of
instructs Cassio to make sure duplicitous Iago is. Also notice
but says it was just courtesy. Desdemona and Cassio as just
that the men on guard practice that Othello and Desdemona did
Iago convinces him otherwise, courtesy, but Iago is able to use
moderation and self-restraint not have sex until they were
and further advises Roderigo Roderigo's jealousy to warp his
despite the party. Cassio says married, in contrast to the
to provoke Cassio into a fight understanding, to mistake
that Iago knows what to do, graphic imaginations that the
with him that night. He says appearance for reality.
but that he will make sure to other characters have indulged
that the people of Cyprus will
2 3 see to it himself. Othello and in.
then demand that Cassio be
Desdemona leave to
replaced, and in the process 2 4 5
consummate their marriage.
remove an obstacle that
separates Roderigo from When Othello and Iago tries to convince Cassio to
Desdemona. Roderigo agrees Desdemona are gone, Iago actually take a shot at seducing
to do it, and exits. praises Desdemona's beauty Desdemona by alluding to the
while also slyly suggesting that idea that demure women are
Alone, Iago delivers his second Once again, Iago directly
she might be a seductress. probably just hiding their inner
soliloquy. He says that he addresses the audience, laying
Cassio agrees that whore. Cassio, like Othello, takes
thinks it likely that Cassio does out his plans to the audience and
Desdemona is beautiful, but people at face value.
indeed love Desdemona, and once again taking on the role of
"director." In fact, nearly all of the believes her to be modest.
believable at least that she 2 4 5
might love him. He says that he rest of the action of Othello
himself loves Desdemona, involves the character's "acting Iago then turns the Unable to manipulate Cassio
though mainly he just wants to out" the "play" that Iago is conversation to the revels, and only with words, Iago progresses
sleep with her because he "writing." Also note how clear it is tries to convince Cassio to toward more directly bodily
wants revenge on Othello for to Iago that if Othello suspects take a drink. Cassio declines, means: alcohol. Cassio, however,
possibly sleeping with Emilia. he has been unable to control his saying he has no tolerance for knows himself and refrains.
If he's unable to sleep with wife that he would lose his sense alcohol. Eventually, Iago
of manhood and his mind. convinces Cassio to let in the 2 4
Desdemona, though, he
reasons, at least the revelers who are at the door.
confrontation he's engineered 2 4 5 Cassio exits to do just that.
between Roderigo and Cassio Alone, Iago addresses the Updating the audience about his
will cause Othello to suspect audience: the revelers are secret plans, Iago continues to
Desdemona of infidelity and Roderigo and three men of act as a "director." Earlier he used
drive him mad. Cyrpus, who are all touchy people's prejudices to manipulate
about their honor and whom them to do what he wants. Now
ACT 2, SCENE 2 he has made sure to get drunk. he uses honor.
Once he has also gotten
A herald reads a proclamation In a military situation, where 2 4
facts and actions are crucial, Cassio drunk, he will create
that Othello has called for a
Othello is dominant. But in a some event that results in
night of revelry to celebrate
domestic world of interpersonal Cassio offending the people of
the annihilation of the Turkish
relationships, facts can be fudged Cyprus.
fleet as well as his recent
marriage. and Iago is in his element. Cassio returns with Montano Cassio, insisting that he is not
and other revelers. Cassio, in drunk when he clearly is, seeks to
2 4 good spirits, says that they maintain his honor or dignity via
have already forced him to an illusion about himself. At the
take a drink. The revelers drink same time, at a trivial level, he
and sing. Eventually, Cassio, also starts to speak untruths as a
who is drunk but loudly result of Iago's manipulations.
protesting that he is in fact not
drunk, exits offstage . 2 4

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 13

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.
While Cassio is gone, Iago Iago continues to orchestrate Iago speaks, saying that it As usual, Iago pretends that he
speaks with Montano, telling complicated sets of doubling- pains him to cause any harm to does not want to say what he is
him that Cassio is a great crossings in order to promote the Cassio but that he must tell about to say, which makes what
soldier, but that he has a illusions that will help him with the truth as Othello he is saying seem even more
terrible drinking problem and his plan. He is a master at commands. He explains that as authentic. Because the audience
may not be able to handle the making someone look bad while he and Montano were talking, knows that he's lying, though, his
responsibilities Othello has seemingly trying to defend that Cassio chased in some tactics are clear to us, but not to
given him. Montano says that person. unknown fellow (Iago does not the any of the other characters.
they should report this to identify him as Roderigo) with In this way, Iago makes the
Othello, but Iago says that he 2 sword drawn. He says that audience complicit in his lies, and
cares too much for Cassio to Montano then stepped in to audience almost comes to root
do that. Meanwhile, Iago stop Cassio, while Iago went for his success.
secretly sends Roderigo off to after the unknown man but
pick a fight with Cassio. could not catch him. When 2 4
Iago returned, Cassio and
Seconds later Cassio chases All of the characters in this scene,
Montano were fighting. Iago
Roderigo onstage, cursing at misled about each other by Iago,
then adds that the first
him. They are about to fight now do exactly what Iago wants
unknown man must have
when Montano tries to them to do. Just as Iago hoped,
offended Cassio in some way
intervene, noting that Cassio is Cassio's honor is offended when
to make him behave as he did.
drunk. Cassio is offended, and his drunkenness is noticed, and
he and Montano fight. During he reacts by fighting. When Iago finishes his story, Othello is just as decisive as he
the fighting, Iago sends Othello says that he can tell was in earlier scenes, but now he,
Roderigo to raise an alarm. 2 4 that, out of love for Cassio, too, has been tricked by Iago and
Cassio injures Montano. Iago tried to tell the story in a his actions only further Iago's
way that made Cassio look as plot. Even so, Desdemona's
Othello enters with his Othello keeps up his strong, quiet
good as possible. He says that arrival and then exit with Othello
attendants. He immediately dignity in contrast to Iago's flurry
he loves Cassio as well, but shows her continued obedience
puts an end to the fighting, and of manipulations. By saying he
that he must dismiss Cassio as to Othello, and, more
demands to know how the doesn't know what happened,
an officer. Desdemona arrives, importantly, his confidence in
fighting began. Iago and Iago makes it look like he is trying
awakened by the noise. that obedience.
Cassio say they do not know, to protect Cassio..
Othello leads her back to bed,
while Montano says that he is 2 4 5
2 4 and also promises to tend to
too injured to speak, but he
Montano's wounds. Everyone
adds that Iago does know the
exits but Iago and Cassio.
full story.

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 14

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.
Cassio despairs at his lost Cassio sees his reputation, his Roderigo exits. Iago addresses Iago describes how he will stage
reputation: "O, I have lost my honor, as what makes him the audience, outlining his yet another scene and control
reputation! I have lost the human. Without it, he sees plan: he will get his wife to set how the other characters will
immortal part of myself, and himself as a beast, using the kind up a private meeting between interpret it, much as a playwright
what remains is bestial" of animal imagery that other Cassio and Desdemona, then does with every scene he or she
(2.3.251-3). Iago asks if Cassio racist characters had used only make sure that Othello writes.
knew who he was chasing to describe Othello. Meanwhile, observes this meeting.
after, but Cassio says that he Iago moves his plot into its 2 3
can't remember anything second phase: to twist two noble
distinctly. He adds that he traits—Cassio's desire to regain ACT 3, SCENE 1
plans to ask Othello to return his honor and Desdemona's
Trying to regain Othello's The musicians serenading create
him to his position. Iago, generosity—to provoke Othello's
favor, Cassio hires musicians another scene within a scene.
however, counsels him to doubt of Desdemona and sexual
to play beneath his window.
approach Desdemona for help. jealousy of Cassio. 2
But Othello sends down a
Desdemona is so kind and
2 3 4 5 clown, or servant, who mocks
generous, and Othello so in
the musicians and sends them
love with her, that she is sure
away.
to help Cassio if he asks for it
and just as sure to convince Cassio gives the clown a gold Following Iago's final soliloquy in
Othello to return Cassio to his piece, and asks the clown to 2.3, the audience knows that no
former position. Cassio thanks bring Emilia to him so that he good can come of Cassio's
Iago for his counsel, and exits. may speak with her. The clown seeking Desdemona as his
exits and Iago enters. Cassio advocate. The fact that even
Iago delivers another Iago again takes on the role of
explains that he sent the clown Emilia plays into Iago's
soliloquy, in which he says that "director," laying out his plans for
to get Emilia. Iago says that he manipulations draws attention
his advice to Cassio is actually the audience. In the soliloquy he
will send Emila down himself, to how limitless Iago's capacity
good advice, and that enlisting makes the difference between
and will also make sure that for deception is: he will even use
Desdemona's help is the best appearance and reality still more
Othello does not come near so his own wife.
way for Cassio to regain his obscure. He suggests that even
that they will be free to talk.
position. But he adds that really good actions can produce 2
Cassio thanks him for his
when devils want to do evil bad effects. He promises to turn
kindness and honesty. Iago
they make it seem as if they're Desdemona's generosity against
exits.
trying to do good. Iago says her, and use it to provoke
that as Desdemona tries to Othello's jealousy and ruin Emilia enters, and tells Cassio Emilia's report on Othello and
help Cassio, Iago will convince everyone. that Othello and Desdemona Desdemona's conversation
Othello that she does so not have been talking about his about Cassio's fate underlines
out of goodness but lust for 2 3 5 situation. Desdemona spoke the extreme differences between
Cassio. "Out of her own strongly in his favor. Othello the Othello-Desdemona and
goodness [I'll] make the net responded that because Iago-Emilia couples. The first is
that / Shall enmesh them all" Montano is so powerful and based on mutual respect and
(2.3.335–336). well-liked in Cyprus he can't love, in the second, Iago keeps
simply give Cassio his job back. Emilia completely in the dark
Roderigo enters. He is angry Encouraging patience, Iago
However, Othello also told and uses her for his own ends.
that he has gotten himself subtly reinforces the parallel
Desdemona that he loved
beaten by Cassio and given between his plots and drama in 2 4 5
Cassio and that he is looking
Iago almost all his money, but general: both need time to come
for the earliest opportunity to
does not have Desdemona. to their climaxes.
reinstate him. Even so, Cassio
Iago tells him to be patient,
2 begs Emilia to help him have a
notes that Cassio has already
brief conversation with
been removed as an obstacle,
Desdemona. Emilia agrees to
and says that these sorts of
help him.
plans take wits and time to
develop.

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 15

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.
ACT 3, SCENE 2 Iago again says that his Iago continues to strive to
suspicions are likely false. He produce the effects of honesty.
Othello, Iago, and a gentleman Othello yet again exhibits his
warns Othello against the However, his words and shifts are
walk together. Othello gives trust in Iago. Such trust shows
dangers of "the green-eyed carefully calculated to inspire
Iago some letters to send to Othello's honor, yet also
monster" (3.3.165-7) of jealousy. Notice, also, that until
the Venetian senate, and tells highlights how this good trait
jealousy, while at the same this moment, Othello has always
him to meet him on the makes him vulnerable he is to
time noting that Desdemona been honest. Now, to protect his
fortifications. Iago exits. Iago's machinations.
did successfully deceive her own honor, he lies and says that
Othello goes to tour the
2 4 father. Othello claims not to be he is not jealous. Jealousy is a
fortifications.
jealous; though it is obvious "green-eyed" monster because it
from his manner that this is takes you over and causes you to
ACT 3, SCENE 3 untrue. Finally, Iago counsels see what is not there.
Desdemona, Cassio, and Desdemona, who showed Othello to trust only what he
sees, not Iago's suspicions. 2 3 4 5
Emilia enter. Desdemona independence resisting her
assures Cassio that she will father's anger in 1.1, here proves Othello tells Iago to have
help him regain his position. herself willing to take an Emilia watch Desdemona, and
Just then, Othello and Iago independent political stand Iago tells Othello to watch how
enter. Cassio feels so ashamed against her husband. Iago once Desdemona acts regarding
that he feels unable to talk again manages to plant a seed of Cassio.
with Othello, and exits. Othello doubt in another person's mind Iago exits. Othello, alone, now As soon as doubt about
asks Iago whether it was without seeming to mean to. voices worry that perhaps it's Desdemona's faithfulness creeps
Cassio who just departed. Iago unrealistic for him to expect in, Othello loses his sense of
responds that it seems 2 3 5
Desdemona to love him when manhood and begins to be
unlikely, because why would he is black, not well mannered, affected by the racial prejudice
Cassio "steal away so guilty- and considerably older than that he had formerly shrugged
like / Seeing your coming" she is. He curses marriage and off.
(3.3.38-39)? laments that it is the fate of
"great ones" to be cuckolded 1 3 4
When Othello reaches Othello's sudden curtness to
Desdemona, she asks him to Desdemona may indicate that he (3.3.277).
reinstate Cassio. Othello is already suspicious of her, just Desdemona and Emilia enter The handkerchief is a symbol of
promises to do so soon, but from seeing Cassio rush away. to tell Othello it is time for Othello and Desdemona's love.
won't give a definite time, For her part, Desdemona insists dinner. Desdemona tries to Notice that it is Othello, now
much to Desdemona's on her obedience to him as a soothe him with her jealous, who says it is too small
annoyance. Othello says that virtuous wife. handkerchief, but Othello says and lets it fall. Meanwhile,
he will deny her nothing, but it is too small and drops it to despite being misused by her
asks for some time to himself. 2 3 4 5
the floor. They exit to go to own husband, Emilia nonetheless
Desdemona exits, saying "I am dinner. Emilia then picks up the remains eager to please him.
obedient" (3.3.90). handkerchief, noting that Emilia's making a copy of the
Othello and Iago are now Othello's exasperation with Desdemona treasures it since handkerchief echoes her
alone. Iago starts asking vague Iago's further supports that it was the first gift that Othello husband's diligently producing
but leading questions about Othello has already become gave to her, and also that Iago illusions.
Cassio, until Othello finally suspicious. Iago once again is always asking her to steal it
for some reason. She decides 2 4 5
demands that Iago make clear plants seeds of doubt while
his suspicions. Iago then makes making himself look innocent by to make a copy of the
a show of saying that his airing his suspicions and then handkerchief for him.
suspicions must be wrong arguing that they can't possibly
because Cassio seems so be true.
honest, but in the process
plants the idea of an affair 2 3 4 5
between Cassio and
Desdemona in Othello's mind.

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 16

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.
Iago enters. To his delight, Snatching the handkerchief, Iago But Iago cautions Othello that Yet again, Iago is most deceitful
Emilia shows him the retains exclusive control over it was just Cassio's dream and precisely in the moments in
handkerchief. He grabs it from "directing" the unfolding jealousy may not signify anything about which he pretends to be most
her hand. She asks for it back of Othello. The planting of the Desdemona's faithfulness. moderate. And, once again, he
unless he has some important handkerchief, which Othello Then Iago asks whether follows a moment of backing off
use for it, but he refuses to dropped, in Cassio's room shows Othello once gave Desdemona with an insinuation calculated to
give it back and sends her how jealousy produces the effect a handkerchief with drive Othello still madder with
away. Once he's alone, Iago it fears. strawberries embroidered on jealousy—all carefully staged.
plots to place the handkerchief it (this is the kerchief that
in Cassio's room, so that 2 3 4 Emilia earlier picked up). 2 3
Cassio will find it. When Othello says yes, Iago
sadly informs him that earlier
Othello enters, frantic and Othello here states that the
that day he saw Cassio holding
furious, and says to Iago that uncertainty of jealousy is
the handkerchief.
he would have been happier to actually worse than the possible
be deceived than to suspect. crime, and expressly connects his Othello cries out in aguish, This highly theatrical moment of
He shouts farewell to war and worrying with the loss of military then kneels and vows that he vow-taking reflects the climax of
his "occupation's gone" glory, of honor and manhood. He will take revenge on Cassio Iago's plan. He has become
(3.3.357). Othello then grabs seeks to eliminate the and Desdemona. Iago kneels lieutenant, and destroyed
Iago by the throat, and uncertainty by getting proof—by and vows as well. Othello Othello's sense of his own honor
commands him to come up seeing reality. makes Iago his new lieutenant. in the process.
with "ocular proof" (3.3.360)
that Desdemona has been 2 3 5 2 3 4 5
unfaithful or else be punished
for causing Othello such ACT 3, SCENE 4
emotional pain.
In her quarters, Desdemona The sudden shift from the
Iago responds that it's Iago responds to Othello's sends the clown to tell Cassio wrongly jealousy Othello at the
probably impossible to actually demand for visible proof with the she has made entreaties on his end of the last scene to
catch Desdemona and Cassio most circumstantial, unverifiable behalf to Othello, and to ask Desdemona emphasizes just how
in the act of infidelity, but that evidence. And Othello, overcome him to come speak with her. innocent and virtuous she
he can provide circumstantial by jealousy, accepts it. Notice actually is.
evidence. He says that one also that Othello immediately
recent night he and Cassio thinks of killing Desdemona. He 2 5
slept in the same bed, and that believes that she has robbed him When the clown exits, In response to Desdemona's
Cassio, while asleep, called out of his manhood, so he feels he Desdemona wonders what frank question Emilia exhibits
Desdemona's name, kissed must destroy her. has happened to her some of her husband's duplicity.
Iago, lay his leg over Iago's handkerchief. Emilia, who is
thigh, and cursed fate for 2 3 4 5 2 5
also present, says she doesn't
giving Desdemona to the know.
Moor. Othello is enraged,
saying "I'll tear her all to
pieces" (3.3.438).

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 17

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.
Othello enters. He takes Othello obsessively tries to find As Cassio waits alone, a Bianca's jealousy of Cassio
Desdemona's hand, and notes evidence of infidelity. The prostitute named Bianca provides a contrast for the
that it is moist. When handkerchief's origins with an enters. She says that he does jealousy that Othello feels for
Desdemona tries to bring up Egyptian sorceress connects it to: not visit her enough. He Desdemona—demonstrating
Cassio's suit, Othello says he Othello's non-white background; apologizes and says he has that women are also subject to
has a headache and asks for illusion, such as those Iago is been worn out with troubled the jealousy that Emilia, earlier in
the handkerchief he gave her. using the handkerchief to create; thoughts. He then asks Bianca this scene, attributes only to
When, Desdemona admits she and to a threatening woman, to make a copy of a men. Bianca also serves as a
doesn't have it at hand, Othello hinting that, to men, all women handkerchief that he hands to contrast to Desdemona: Bianca
tells her that the handkerchief are threatening. her. Bianca thinks that the is whore, while Desdemona's
is magic, was given to his handkerchief must be a gift to virtuous wife. But the depiction
mother by an Egyptian 1 2 3 4 5 him from another mistress, but of Bianca as a jealous woman
sorceress, and that a woman he says that her jealousy is for who truly cares for Cassio
who loses it will lose her nothing—he found the complicates the contrast.
husband. handkerchief in his room and
doesn't know whose it is. 3 5
Uncomfortable, Desdemona Under Othello's pressure, the
Though Bianca wants to stay
says she doesn't have the typically honest Desdemona is
with Cassio, he says that he
handkerchief with her, but that herself forced to equivocate.
has to see Othello and that
it isn't lost. When Othello Bringing up Cassio in good faith,
they'll have to meet later.
demands that she go get it, she she plays right into Iago's hands.
Bianca grudgingly accepts.
tries to change the subject Emilia, who is less idealistic and
back to Cassio's suit. This more worldly than Desdemona,
enrages Othello, who exits. immediately understands that ACT 4, SCENE 1
Emilia wonders if Othello is Othello's behavior stems from Othello and Iago enter, Othello’s fit robs him of his ability
jealous, then comments on jealousy. discussing infidelity. Iago uses to speak, the trait that
how fickle men are towards the conversation to further distinguishes humans from
women. 2 3 5
enrage Othello, then lets slip animals. Consumed by jealousy,
Iago and Cassio enter. Cassio Iago continues to handle every that Cassio has actually told without his honor, he has
asks about his suit, but person involved in the unfolding him that he has slept with become the animal that the
Desdemona tells him that he drama carefully. The others Desdemona. Othello grows prejudiced characters have
must be patient—for some remain clueless. frantic, almost incoherent, described him as being.
reason Othello seems not then falls into an epileptic fit.
2 2 3 4
himself and her advocacy of
Cassio only made Othello Cassio enters while Othello is Although Cassio shows real
angrier. Iago exits, promising unconscious from his fit. Iago concern for Othello, Iago
to look into Othello's anger. informs Cassio that this is skillfully maintains exclusive
Othello’s second fit in as many control over his situation.
Desdemona surmises that Like Othello, Desdemona doesn't
days, and though Cassio wants
Othello's bad temper must understand that a skillful liar can 2
to help advises that it would be
arise from some affair of state. twist reality to look like
better if Cassio stayed away.
Emilia wonders again whether something else. She thinks that if
He adds that he’d like to speak
it might be jealousy. When she is virtuous, then Othello and
with Cassio once Othello is
Desdemona says he can't be the world will see it. Emilia,
better.
jealous, since she gave him no however, understands that
reason to be, Emilia answers jealousy can warp a person's
that jealousy needs no vision, so that they see what isn't
reason—it is a monster that there.
grows by feeding on itself.
Emilia and Desdemona exit to 2 3
look for Othello.

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 18

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.
Othello’s fit ends after Cassio Up until now, Iago has staged Just then, Desdemona enters The arrival of Lodovico, like that
exits. Iago tells Othello that events and then enjoyed them as with Lodovico, an envoy who is of Bianca just before, provides
Cassio passed by during a spectator. Now he sets up a carrying orders from the Duke yet another serendipitous
Othello’s fit and will soon staged event with Othello as the of Venice that Othello is to addition to Iago’s plan. The
return to speak with Iago. Iago spectator. return to Venice and leave presence of Lodovico as an
says that he will get Cassio to Cassio behind to govern emissary from Venice also
talk about the details of his 2 Cyprus. Desdemona mentions reinforces how dramatically
affair with Desdemona, and to Lodovico the falling out Othello has changed from the
that Othello should hide and between Othello and Cassio, early scenes in Venice. Jealousy
watch Cassio’s face during the and how much she wants to and the fear that he has been
conversation. Othello hides. heal it. This enrages Othello, cuckolded have robbed him of his
and he strikes Desdemona and honor, and he now acts
Alone, Iago explains to the At the play’s beginning, Othello
commands her to leave. recklessly, angrily, and without
audience that he will actually was the center of the action, the
Lodovico is shocked, and asks self-control.
speak with Cassio about military hero. Now, his honor
that Othello call Desdemona
Bianca, who’s doting pursuit of gone, he skulks around the 2 3 4 5
back. Othello complies, but
Cassio never fails to make periphery, a kind of peeping tom.
then condemns her as a loose
Cassio break out in laughter. Cassio, by the way, is rather
woman and sends her away
This laughter will drive Othello nasty to Bianca.
again. He promises to obey the
mad.
2 3 4 5 Duke’s commands, and then
exits himself.
The plan works perfectly: as With Bianca’s appearance, which
Cassio laughs and gestures, Iago doesn’t seem to have Lodovico can’t believe that Iago quickly assumes control of
Othello grows angrier and planned, his scene takes on a life Othello, renowned for his this new dimension of the
angrier. Then Bianca herself of its own. Again, Bianca’s unshakable self-control, would situation. Once again, Iago
enters, again accuses Cassio of jealousy provides a foil to act this way. He asks Iago if refuses to answer questions in
having another mistress, Othello’s own, while also further Othello has gone mad. Iago such a way that makes him look
throws the handkerchief at convincing Othello that Iago is refuses to answer, but clearly loyal while at the same time
him, and exits. Othello telling the truth. implies that something seems inspiring the beliefs he wants his
recognizes the handkerchief. to be terribly wrong with interlocutor to have.
Cassio races after Bianca. 2 3 4 5 Othello, and advises Lodovico
to observe Othello for himself. 2 4
Othello comes out of hiding Othello still shows the residue of
and promises to kill Cassio. the tenderness that he and
But it is less easy for him to Desdemona eloquently ACT 4, SCENE 2
think about killing expressed for each other in Othello questions Emilia, who Despite naively playing into
Desdemona. He keeps earlier scenes. But Iago turns this insists that nothing has Iago's hands earlier by giving him
remembering what a kind, logic on its head, arguing that in happened between the handkerchief, Emilia shows
beautiful, talented, and Desdemona, as in all women, Desdemona and Cassio. He her earnest loyalty to
delicate person she is. But Iago such attractive or noble traits are orders her to go get Desdemona.
convinces him that these in fact just hiding a devious Desdemona. Othello assumes
qualities make her sexuality that threatens to steal that Emilia is helping 2 5
unfaithfulness all the worse. men’s honor and manhood. Desdemona in her infidelity.
Othello, at Iago’s prodding,
says he will strangle 2 3 4 5
Desdemona in her bed. Iago
promises to kill Cassio.

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 19

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.
Emilia returns with Now that Othello suspects that Iago responds that he's been But Iago manages to maintain
Desdemona. Othello sends Desdemona's virtue is just a working diligently on control of the situation by once
Emilia outside to guard the cover for whore-like behavior, her Roderigo's behalf and can again playing on Roderigo's
door. Othello than says he denials of his accusation just promise that Rodrigo will have jealous desire for Desdemona.
could have handled any makes him more certain of its Desdemona by the following Once he has convinced Roderigo
affliction but infidelity. truth. Jealousy feeds on itself. By night. He then tells Roderigo to stay, he then weaves him even
Desdemona denies being paying Emilia, Othello is implying about Cassio being promoted more fully into his plots.
unfaithful and asserts both her that Desdemona is a whore by the Duke to take Othello's
love and loyalty to Othello. But whose time costs money. place as defender of Cyprus. 2 3
her denials only make Othello But he adds a lie: that Othello,
more angry—he calls her a 2 3 4 5 rather than returning to
whore, and, after giving Emilia Venice, is being sent to
money for guarding the door, Mauritania along with
storms out. Desdemona. Iago persuades
Here Iago shows that he is both Roderigo that the only way to
Desdemona asks Emilia to
willing and able to manipulate stop Desdemona from slipping
fetch Iago, whom Desdemona
everyone, including his own wife, forever beyond his reach is to
then questions about
to the end. Emilia herself exhibits kill Cassio, which will keep
Othello's behavior. Emilia
some—but not Othello in Cyprus.
thinks that it must be the doing
of some "eternal villain" who is enough—perceptiveness about
looking "to get some office" the entire situation. ACT 4, SCENE 3
(4.2.135-136). Iago scoffs at After supper, Othello invites Desdemona remains as faithful
this, and says that Othello is 2 4 5
Lodovico on a walk. Before here in her love as in 1.3, despite
just upset by affairs of state. leaving, he orders Desdemona the fact that Othello has berated
Trumpets sound, and Emilia to go directly to bed and to her and that she even seems to
and Desdemona exit to go to dismiss Emilia. Emilia helps sense that he might kill her. Her
supper. Desdemona prepare for bed. devotion to Othello even should
Roderigo enters, angry that he For the first time, Roderigo As they discuss Othello, Emilia it cost her her life could not
still does not have Desdemona asserts a free will, and wants to says that she wishes contrast more strongly with the
despite all the jewels he's given do something that would not Desdemona had never met graphic, misogynistic picture of
to Iago to pass on to her. He benefit Iago. him, but Desdemona responds female sexuality Iago has
says he is ready to give up his that she loves him so much described throughout the play.
effort and ask her to return his 2 3 4 that even his bad behavior has Othello is so threatened by the
jewels. a kind of grace to her. Yet possibility of having been
Desdemona's next words is to cuckolded that he can't see the
instruct Emilia to use the reality of his incredibly faithful
wedding bedsheets as a wife.
shroud for her should she die.
Desdemona then sings a song 2 3 5
called "Willow" that she
learned from her mother's
maid, a woman who's husband
went mad and abandoned her.

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 20

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.
Desdemona then asks Emilia Emilia presents a cynical view of Lodovico enters with Iago here reveals the full extent
whether she would commit marriage, in which one bad deed Graziano (Brabantio's of his treachery, killing the
adultery. Emilia responds that inspires another. Though it brother). They hear the cries character with whom he has
woman are just like men, and should be noted that Emilia of pain from Cassio and plotted onstage since 1.1 in
will cheat on their husbands if seems to think that men always Roderigo, but it's so dark they order to cover his tracks. Iago,
their husbands cheat on them. cheat first, while the men suspect can't see anything. Iago enters, basically, has no honor to lose.
Desdemona responds that she the women will cheat first. Once carrying a light, and is
does not want to learn how to again, Desdemona's displays her recognized by Lodovico and 2 4
emulate bad deeds, but instead incredible virtue and faithfulness, Graziano. He finds Cassio, and
how to avoid them. She which in his jealousy Othello can then Roderigo. He identifies
dismisses Emila and goes to no longer see. Roderigo as one of the
bed. "villains: who attacked Cassio,
2 3 5 and stabs and kills Roderigo.
As Iago, Lodovico, and Although the other characters
ACT 5, SCENE 1 Graziano tend to Cassio's dismiss Bianca as a promiscuous
In the street, Iago and Iago manipulates Roderigo's wounds, Bianca enters and woman, she shows real affection
Roderigo wait to ambush jealousy and sense of honor to cries out when she sees for Cassio. Iago, however, uses on
Cassio as he emerges from his get him to attach Cassio. Iago Cassio's injuries. Iago, misogynistic stereotypes to
visit to Bianca. Iago convinces now shows the depths of his meanwhile, makes a show of implicate the (innocent) Bianca,
Roderigo to make the first depravity. He doesn't just want recognizing Cassio's attacker and further put himself in the
attack, and promises to back to ruin Othello, he's willing to as Roderigo of Venice, and also clear.
him up if necessary. In an aside, trick people into attacking each implicates Bianca as being in
Iago comments that he wins other and dying as long as it on the plot to kill Cassio by 1 2 5
either way: if Cassio kills serves his own ends. getting her to admit that
Roderigo, he gets to keep Cassio had dined with her that
Roderigo's jewels; if Roderigo 2 3 4 night.
kills Cassio, then there's no
Cassio is carried offstage and The brief cat fight between
danger that Cassio and
Emilia enters. When Iago Emilia and Bianca shows that
Othello will ever figure out his
explains what has happened just as Othello might hold racist
plot.
Emilia curses Bianca. Bianca feelings about himself, so do
Cassio enters. Roderigo Iago actions are cowardly, responds by saying that she is women entertain gender
attacks, but Cassio's armor sending Roderigo ahead of him as honest as Emilia. Emilia prejudices and stereotypes
turns away the thrust. Cassio and then attacking Cassio from curses her again, and then against other women.
counterattacks, wounding behind. Othello once again exits, sent by Iago to bring
Roderigo. From behind, Iago misinterprets what has news of what has happened to 1 2 5
darts in and stabs Cassio in the happened, though, to Iago's Othello and Desdemona.
leg, then runs away. From a benefit. Othello's professed
Iago has Bianca arrested, and Iago's reference to the night as a
distance, Othello hears admiration for Iago, coupled with
in an aside to he audience says dramatic climax once again
Cassio's shouts of pain and his newly misogynistic and
"This is the night / That either underscores his self-consciously
believes that Iago has killed violent plans for Desdemona,
makes me or fordoes me quite" chosen role as "director."
Cassio. Moved by Iago's loyalty contrast poignantly from his
(5.1.130–131).
to him, Othello steels himself declarations of love in 1.3. 2
to go and kill Desdemona in
her bed. 2 3 4

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 21

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.
ACT 5, SCENE 2 Finally, Othello realizes that it The slow pace of Desdemona's
is Emilia who is calling. He death stretches out its brutality
Othello enters Desdemona's In comparison to his frantic,
draws the curtains back and the terrible consequences of
quarters, holding a candle. epileptic state in the prior scenes,
around the bed to hide Othello's delusion. The news that
Standing over Desdemona as Othello now seems dignified. He
Desdemona's body. Then he Cassio has killed Roderigo is the
she sleeps, he admires her describes Desdemona's beauty
goes to speak with Emilia, first sign of Iago's plots
beauty, kisses her, and is and his own longing and anguish
expecting her to tell him of unraveling. That these two things
almost moved to let her using traditional terms, which
Cassio's death. Othello is happen almost simultaneously
live—noting that, like a flower, are both beautiful but also
shocked to learn from Emilia makes heightens the play's
once plucked, she cannot be underscores the tradition
that Cassio killed Roderigo but tragedy.
given "vital growth" (5.2.14) masculine values spurring him to
is himself still alive. Then,
again. But, finally resolving to kill the "loose" Desdemona.. 2 3 5
suddenly, Desdemona calls out
kill her, he moves to do so.
2 4 5 that she has been murdered.

Just then, Desdemona wakes. By refusing to even listen to Emilia opens the curtains and In changing her story,
She calls out to Othello, who Desdemona's denials of her to her horror sees Desdemona tries to spare
answers, and then tells her to suspected infidelity, Othello Desdemona, who with her Othello from the punishments he
pray in preparation for her to reveals how fully he has lost his dying breaths says that she is will receive, proving her love and
death. Terrified, Desdemona independent perspective and innocent, but then denies that devotion to him to the very last.
begs to know why Othello is succumbed to Iago's web of she was murdered and instead
says that she committed 2 3 5
going to kill her. He tells her illusions. In fact, he refuses even
that he has seen Cassio with to let her live a bit longer so she suicide. Desdemona dies.
her handkerchief. When can prove her innocence. He is Though Emilia does not However, Othello does not seek
Desdemona denies giving not interested in her innocence, appear to suspect him, Othello to profit from Desdemona's own
Cassio the handkerchief, in her pleas to be given a chance voluntarily (and almost attempt to "direct" a scene to his
Othello tells her that Cassio to explain the truth behind proudly) admits that he killed benefit. The repetition of
has confessed to sleeping with appearances, because he is so her for being unfaithful to him. "honest" in his description of Iago
her and, in punishment, has consumed by the "monster" of Emilia denies that Desdemona compounds the tragedy by
been killed by Iago. jealousy that he is certain that was ever false to him, but highlighting how completely he
Desdemona begins to weep, she is guilty. Othello counters that it was was duped.
which only infuriates Othello "honest, honest Iago"
since he believes that she is 2 3 4 5 2 3 4
(5.2.156) who showed him the
crying for Cassio. He struggles truth.
with Desdemona as she begs
Emilia is dumbfounded as she Emilia, who understands Iago far
to be first banished instead of
digests this information, but better than the gullible male
killed and then allowed to live
recovers herself enough to say characters have so far,
just a few minutes more.
that Iago was lying and to demonstrates her loyalty to
Othello is implacable, though,
condemn Othello's actions. Desdemona by risking her own
and smothers Desdemona
Othello threatens Emilia to safety and defying the murderer
with a pillow.
keep quiet, but Emilia is of her former mistress, despite
Emilia calls from the doorway. Othello is can't analyze unafraid, saying "Though hast his obvious willingness to do
Othello mistakes her calls as reality—he can't even not half that power to do me violence.
noises made by Desdemona, differentiate between Emilia's harm / As I have to be hurt"
and smothers Desdemona and Desdemona's voices. (5.2.169–170). She calls out 2 4 5
again. that "The Moor hath killed my
2 3 5
mistress" (5.2.174).

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 22

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.
Montano, Graziano, and Iago The speed with which Othello is Othello searches his chamber Cassio's relative restraint, despite
enter. Othello admits once transformed from respected and finds a sword. Graziano having been wounded by
more, this time to Graziano, general to reviled outsider enters to find Othello armed Roderigo and Iago and
Desdemona's uncle, that he reveals the strength of prejudices and mourning Desdemona. mistrusted by Othello, reveals his
smothered Desdemona. more or less repressed by other Moments later Lodovico and strength of character, which
Graziano is shocked, and says characters throughout the Montano enter with Iago, contrasts with Iago's increasingly
that it is a good thing that majority of the play. Once there's whom they've captured. sadistic malice as the extent of
Brabantio died from grief at reason to exclude him from the Cassio also enters, carried in his plot is revealed. By refusing to
Desdemona's marriage so that social group: Othello quickly is on a chair. Othello immediately speak, Iago retains some of the
he did not live to see this. diminished to the status of stabs Iago, who is injured but directorial control of events that
outsider among the Venetians. not killed. Othello is disarmed he has striven for throughout: he
by Lodovico's men. Othello never reveals his inner reality to
1 2 3 then begs to know why Iago the other characters.
Meanwhile, despite Iago's Iago tries to control Emilia, did what he did, but Iago
refuses to speak at all. 2 4
efforts demands that she obey commanding her as his wife to be
him and be quiet, Emilia begins silent. But she shows her Lodovico, however, has found
to piece together what independence and loyalty to two letters in Roderigo's
happened. Othello insists both Desdemona and to the pocket that reveal all of Iago's
again that Desdemona was truth. Othello, meanwhile, his schemes.
unfaithful and brings up the crime staring him in the face, Now Lodovico turns to Othello, now comprehending
proof of the handkerchief. now can only preserve his honor Othello, and tells him that he everything, shows frank, deep
Now Emilia explodes in anger, by insisting that Iago's version must give up his command and remorse. His curious final
and explains that she was the must be the truth. return with them to Venice. In anecdote both asserts his rightful
one who found the response, Othello asks that membership in Venetian society.
handkerchief and gave it to 1 4 5
when they speak of what has In a gesture reminiscent of how
Iago. happened they "speak of me as other characters (Iago, Roderigo,
Realizing that Iago lied to him, Othello kills Desdemona because I am ... as one that loved not Brabantio) have drawn on racial
Othello attacks Iago, but is he thinks she betrayed him. Iago wisely but too well" (5.2.344). stereotypes to exclude Othello
disarmed by Montano. In the kills Emilia because she did Then Othello tells a story and cement their own
uproar, Iago stabs Emilia and betray him. But she betrayed him about a time when he once relationships, he here defines
flees. Montano chases after for the greater good, and Iago's defeated and stabbed a himself as an "insider," a
Iago while Graziano stays to violence toward her is more Muslim Turk who had killed a Christian, against the "outsider"
guard the door. Othello is left graphic and terrible than the Venetian, and as he describes or enemy, the Turk. Yet, at the
with the body of Desdemona smothering of Desdemona, the stabbing so he takes out a same time, when he tells of
and the dying Emilia. Emilia bringing home his full villainy. hidden dagger and stabs stabbing the Turk, he also stabs
sings a verse of the song himself. He falls onto the bed himself. In effect, he is defining
"Willow," and dies while telling 1 4 5 next to Desdemona and dies himself as both an insider and an
Othello that Desdemona was while giving her a final kiss. outsider, someone who defended
faithful to him. Venice but was nevertheless seen
as both a possible enemy and an
animal by other Venetians.

1 2 4
Lodovico demands that Iago In the final moment of the play,
look upon the destruction he Iago, who has directed action
has caused. He notes that throughout, ends up as a
Graziano is Othello's heir, and spectator to his own misdeeds.
says that Cassio is to carry out
the execution of Iago. Then he 2
departs to carry the sad news
to Venice.

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 23

 LitCharts The best way to study, teach, and learn about books.

HOW T
TO
O CITE
It's easy to cite LitCharts for use in academic papers and reports.

MLA CIT
CITA
ATION
Weigel, Moira. "Othello." LitCharts. LitCharts LLC, 22 Jul 2013.
Web. 26 Oct 2016.

CHICA
CHICAGO
GO MANU
MANUAL
AL CIT
CITA
ATION
Weigel, Moira. "Othello." LitCharts LLC, July 22, 2013. Retrieved
October 26, 2016. http://www.litcharts.com/lit/othello.

©2016 LitCharts LLC www.LitCharts.com | Follow us: @litcharts | v.005 Page 24