What reasons does Othello give for having to kill Desdemona?
Othello kills Desdemona as a favour for himself, herself and other people; Othello feels that if Desdemona were to stay alive she will 'betray more men' (6) so killing her will give him justice for being 'cheated' on. Othello also outright says he has seen Cassio with the hankerchief 'I have seen the hankerchief' (65) thus pinpointing another reason for killing Desdemona - jealousy.
What evidence is there to suggest that Shakespeare adhered to racial stereotypes in this scene? Consider:
irrational behaviour
emotions
danger
the 'mystical negro' stereotype
representations of the 'other'
Even though Othello toys with the idea of killing her 'O balmy breath that dost almost persuade' (17) Othello murders Desdemona, adhering to the 'dangerous' racial stereotype, Othello is also presented as letting his emotions take control eg. when he mentions his jealousy and upset over the idea of Cassio with Desdemona 'Cassio did top her' (136) - this stereotype is even more enforced due to Shakespeare writing Othello to overreact to the false information.Othello too, conforms to the irrational black stereotype in that he goes to stab Iago '(he lunges with a sword at Iago)' (233) with less than 100 lines to think about it and is in an irrational mindset. Linking with the mystical negro stereotype, Desdemona claims that Othello's 'eyes roll so' (39) as though he isn't quite normal. Othello blames the moon for the actions taken place 'it is the very error of the moon'(110) implying that he is lead by nature - pathetic fallacy - especially the planets, thus has more mystique to him.
Othello tells Desdemona that Cassio has confessed to sleeping with her (line 68). What was this 'confession'?
Cassio's confession is that 'he hath used thee' (71), however Othello made this up as Desdemona has said one thing and Iago has said another, so he is tangled up in Iago's plan that he doesn't know what's true and what's false.
Emilia says "Good gentleman, let me have leave to speak./ 'Tis proper I obey him - but not now!" [5.2.192-193] what does this indicate about Emilia and society? Consider the circumstances the characters are in.
Emilia is being presented as a strong, brave and not-so passive woman which isn't a regular occurrence in the 16th century and transcends many female gender binary stereotypes. Emilia is standing up for Desdemona instead of her husband which at the time is not the done thing to do however with all of the out of order behaviours happening in the scene, Emilia's verbal liberation fits in with the other commotion.
How is Emilia presented in lines 125-233. Consider the language she uses, how she behaves and what she says to Othello and Iago.
Emilia is definitely presented as angry in this scene plus has an element of protectiveness over her dead lady. Emilia is constantly told to be quiet 'peace, you were best' (163) and 'hold your peace' (218) 'get you home' (223) and fights back every time 'No, I will speak as liberal as the north' (220) and 'I will not charm my tongue, I am bound to speak' (185) which shows her strength of character in order to get justice for Desdemona. Emilia also unmasks Iago as the villain behind all of the commotion 'he begged of me to steal it' (228) presenting her as a wise and virtuous character because she wants everyone to know the truth.
List all of the names Emilia calls Othello when she realises what he has done. How does this contrast with how Othello was portrayed at the start of the play?
'the blacker devil' (131)
'devil' (133)
'gull' 'dolt' (164)
'dull moor' (225)
'murderous coxcomb' (234)
These names contrast with the valiant Othello at the beginning of the play. The General that had men fighting over him to be his lieutenant. Mostly, at the beginning of the play, Othello was called things with connotations with virtue and valour, and now he is described as the complete opposite - a man turned into the devil after being with Iago for a day.
Sunday 19 June 2016
Thursday 16 June 2016
How does Shakespeare create a sense of fear and confusion in act 5 sc 1?
Act 5 scene 1 is the fight scene within Othello’s men where
Cassio and Roderigo get wounded.
The scene is similar to the
opening scene in that the setting is a ‘street’ in the night time. Language
spoken by the pawns in Iago’s plan creates confusion within the characters as
Cassio is unaware that Roderigo and Iago plan to kill him. Fear is built when Iago
instructs Roderigo to ‘wear thy good rapier bare’ (2) and as the instruction
implies striking Cassio, the audience fears for Cassio’s safety.
Cassio states ‘that thrust had
been mine enemy indeed’ (24) which indicates that the attacker has no identity
as far as Cassio is aware. After Othello’s entrance, Rodrigo admits to his
crime ‘O, villain that I am’ (28) however Othello thinks that the person
confessing to being villainous is Cassio which could spark a sense of confusion
within the audience if the actors have similar sounding voices and/or are
unfamiliar with the play.
Lodovico and Gratiano’s presence
in the scene bring about fear because these men trust Iago ‘a very valiant
fellow’ (52) and through dramatic irony, the audience know that Iago is not to
be trusted. Also, as Iago has instructed to kill Cassio, he is a fearful character
because he is putting his so called friend’s life on the line. Iago has gone
from doing small and petty actions to get his way such as intentionally
allowing Othello and Roderigo to misconstrued what he says, however now is
willing to have someone die for what he wants; the audience should be fearful
as to what other lengths he will go to for his plan to follow through.
Iago’s lines tend to be a centre
of confusion in this scene especially when he strings Bianca into his plan.
With Bianca being a woman, Iago’s word will be taken over hers due to her
status being much lower than Iago’s and the 17th century being a
suppressive time for women. Iago states ‘I do suspect this trash to be a party
in this injury’ (84) and ends up arresting her for ‘provoking’ the fight
between Roderigo and Cassio ‘I charge you’ (119). Bianca, showing her confusion
of being blamed and fear of her punishment, defends herself ‘I am no strumpet
but of a life as honest as you’ (121) however even the truth coming from her
doesn’t account for the power Iago has manipulated for himself.
Sunday 22 May 2016
CAST CASSIO
Sam Claflin *heart eyes*
My choice for Cassio is Sam Claflin. First of all hes gorgeous and his smile seems so inviting and warm which is perfect for a friendly Cassio. Claflin grew up in Norwich, Norfolk and is best known as his portrayal of Finnick from The Hunger Games film series. Claflin usually plays the attractive heart-breaker which is similar to the role of Cassio; roles such as Alex in Love, Rosie, Finnick in the Hunger Games and Alistair in The Riot Club support this. Sam Claflin is 29 however is younger than Iwan (my Iago) plus with some makeup Iago can be made to look older and Sam looks younger than his age in my opinion anyway. From my research, Claflin hasn't been in any professional stage productions however has done plenty of film and TV so he is experienced enough to pull of the character. Claflin is also British, fitting with the rest of my cast and definitely has qualities that would make Othello jealous of him and enforce his belief that Desdemona would cheat with him. Also, I think that Calflin could pull of the Florentine look as well as looking chivalrous.
OTHELLO AND IAGO
According to Adrian Lester, how long has Othello been fighting for?
Othello has been fighting since the age of 7
According to Adrian Lester, Othello is not born into a 'sense of nobility', like those around him. How does Adrian Lester say this impacts the character?
Othello is very aware of how he appears in front of the Venetians,
What increases Othello's status in Venice?
Marrying Desdemona, the only child of a well to do senator, thus Othello stands to inherit a good position
Why does Rory Kinnear say Iago is disgruntled with Othello?
Iago is 'disgruntled' with Othello because Cassio has been effectively favored over him due to him being younger and posher. Iago has seen and experienced the same war horrors as Othello so finds it unfair that someone with less experience gets the job over him.
What do Othello and Iago have in common, according to Rory Kinnear?
Othello and Iago are both soldiers that started from the bottom. However Othello, through charisma, skills and strength as a soldier, has overtaken Iago, hence Othello being the General.
Around 4.20, Rory Kinnear lists some of the ways Iago aims to bring down Othello and Cassio. What are they?
Iago's ways to bring people down are through:
subterfuge (deceit)
insinuation (unpleasant hint/ suggestion of something bad)
getting people on his side
Othello has been fighting since the age of 7
According to Adrian Lester, Othello is not born into a 'sense of nobility', like those around him. How does Adrian Lester say this impacts the character?
Othello is very aware of how he appears in front of the Venetians,
What increases Othello's status in Venice?
Marrying Desdemona, the only child of a well to do senator, thus Othello stands to inherit a good position
Why does Rory Kinnear say Iago is disgruntled with Othello?
Iago is 'disgruntled' with Othello because Cassio has been effectively favored over him due to him being younger and posher. Iago has seen and experienced the same war horrors as Othello so finds it unfair that someone with less experience gets the job over him.
What do Othello and Iago have in common, according to Rory Kinnear?
Othello and Iago are both soldiers that started from the bottom. However Othello, through charisma, skills and strength as a soldier, has overtaken Iago, hence Othello being the General.
Around 4.20, Rory Kinnear lists some of the ways Iago aims to bring down Othello and Cassio. What are they?
Iago's ways to bring people down are through:
subterfuge (deceit)
insinuation (unpleasant hint/ suggestion of something bad)
getting people on his side
Monday 9 May 2016
CAST DESDEMONA
Carrie Hope Fletcher
My choice for Desdemona is Carrie Fletcher, best known for playing Eponine in the West End's Les Miserables. Carrie is 23, therefore is around Desdemona's age (young) and has a lot of performing experience. I feel that Carrie has a Desdemona look about her - she has a sweet smile and looks empowered. Due to her experience playing Eponine (Les Mis), Beth (War of the Worlds) and Truly Scrumptious (Chitty, to name a few), she is used to playing the lead females in theatre. Carrie playing Eponine had to *spoiler alert* die every show, so Carrie is used to death scenes; she also able to sing well, evident by her major roles in musical theatre, so Desdemona's singing scene with Emilia will be a piece of cake. Carrie is British - in keeping with Shakespeare's original times - and has presented as well as won theatre awards so I think she would make an excellent Desdemona.
My choice for Desdemona is Carrie Fletcher, best known for playing Eponine in the West End's Les Miserables. Carrie is 23, therefore is around Desdemona's age (young) and has a lot of performing experience. I feel that Carrie has a Desdemona look about her - she has a sweet smile and looks empowered. Due to her experience playing Eponine (Les Mis), Beth (War of the Worlds) and Truly Scrumptious (Chitty, to name a few), she is used to playing the lead females in theatre. Carrie playing Eponine had to *spoiler alert* die every show, so Carrie is used to death scenes; she also able to sing well, evident by her major roles in musical theatre, so Desdemona's singing scene with Emilia will be a piece of cake. Carrie is British - in keeping with Shakespeare's original times - and has presented as well as won theatre awards so I think she would make an excellent Desdemona.
Wednesday 6 April 2016
Act 3 Scene 3 - Is Iago an opportunist or a strategist?
Iago is the puppet master of the play Othello and definitely
is a large contributor towards Othello’s tragic downfall due to Iago’s envy of
Othello’s rank and reputation.
Iago, pervious to Act 3 Sc 3, had planned to pull Cassio
away from his lieutenancy because he felt as though he would be more suited for
the position of Othello’s lieutenant- despite the fact that he dislikes
Othello- and in aim to gain Othello’s trust Iago ends up sabotaging Othello’s
marriage.
The fact that Iago had a plan in the first place makes him a
strategist, however Iago in act 3 sc 3 (so far) performs no asides which are to
inform the audience to of his plan. Iago instead includes glimpses of what his
plan entails in conversations with Othello which carry the element of
spontaneity. Iago didn’t exactly plan in depth what he was going to say to
Othello about Cassio, because Iago wasn’t to know that Cassio would walk away
when Othello approached Desdemona, so his choice of words ‘that he would steal
away so guilty-like’ (40) displays that Iago only had a minute or so to come up
with a remark thus presenting Iago as an opportunist. Othello around 70 lines
later asks ‘When Cassio left my wife. What didst not like?’ (114) proving that
Iago’s unplanned comment did not go to waste, so him being opportunist paid off
in this situation because Othello’s interest is peaked.
Iago seems to be more of a strategist than an opportunist
because in Act 3 Sc 3 he links a lot of his speeches to his plan to bring Casso
down ‘note if your lady strain his entertainment’ (253) however does take the
opportunity to enrich his plan when the time arises eg. incorporating the
napkin into the situation, but I think he is too cunning for his doings to all
be spontaneous.
Monday 14 March 2016
CAST IAGO
Shia LaBeouf
Nah, just kidding. Shia could attempt Iago but I don't think he has enough evil in him to capture to portray the character. Shia's works are more of the hero type character; but I do envision Iago with an intimidating beard and stern yet entrancing glare. Shia is 29 which is close enough to Iago's age (34ish). Also, I would prefer Iago to not be American due to Shakespeare's origins being British, so I think there's a better fit. It'd be cool if LaBeef was Iago though. I am a fan. I ship it.
Iwan Rheon
I think Iwan would make a great Iago. Iwan is most well known for his character Simon in Misfits and Ramsay in Game of Thrones. Ramsay Snow in Game of Thrones is one of the most evil characters in the show and Simon apparently murders someone, so Iwan does a great 'baddie'. I feel like the manipulation element of Iago comes from charm and that can be found in Iwan's striking blue eyes which can subsequently make him seem more of a Machiavelli. Iwan is almost 31 so he is closer to Iago's age and he seems to have a natural sense of darkness about him, plus he has an Iago-esque beard which can be used as a sort of mask to imply that Iago isn't being his true self. Iwan was also born in Wales (which is in Britain, like Shakespeare) which is close enough to British - he can do a convincing British accent nonetheless.
via GIPHY
Act 2 Sc 3 Questions
Iago switches from verse to prose when he speaks with Cassio, and Cassio follows. What does this indicate about the exchange? What might it indicate about Cassio? AO2 LFS
Iago's use of prose is more persuasive towards Cassio and makes Iago seem more comfortable and close to Cassio. Cassio tends to speak in verse because he is a noble man, however then converges to prose when talking to Iago as though Iago changes his parts of Cassio's personality to become more colloquial with him and pulled down to Iago's level. Iago is, in a way, in control of the way Cassio speaks as Cassio is easily persuaded and wants to get along with everyone due to his nature.
What language does Cassio use when speaking about Desdemona? How does it compare to the language Iago uses to sexualise her? Why do you think Iago is speaking about Desdemona in this way to Cassio? (lines 15-25) AO2 LF
Cassio speaks kindly of Desdemona and uses language with a lexical field of beauty and purity when talking about her 'most fresh and delicate creature' (L19) as though she is similar to a Goddess. Compared to Iago's descriptive sexualised language 'full of game' (L18) implying that she is sexually active; Cassio seems to value Desdemona as a person more than Iago who mostly see's her as a sexual object. Iago speaks of Desdemona in this way to plant a lustful seed for Cassio so that Cassio will desire her more and feel more jealous of Othello.
How does Iago persuade Cassio to drink? Use your close reading skills to analyse the language he uses. AO2 LFS
Originally, Cassio warns Iago that he is a lightweight 'poor and unhappy brains for drinking' (L30) but Iago tells him to celebrate with the declarative sentence ''Tis a night of revels; the gallants desire it' (L37) and tells him to drink 'but one cup' (L32) as though one cup of alcohol will have little effect on Cassio thus persuading him to get drunk. Cassio agrees 'I'll do't; but it dislikes me' (L40) however knows that it's not the best idea and is actually against his original plan and is now deceiving Othello all thanks to Iago.
Why does Iago try to subvert the social order and bring others down to his level, rather than try to climb the ladder and raise himself up? Consider ideas about social order at the time AO3, context.
Iago brings people down to his level to belittle their reputation. Reputation is a big deal in the army, even more so in the 1600s. If Iago were to climb the rankings, it is less stress on manipulation of others and more on himself to gain a better reputation. Cassio is concerned about his rankings 'O, I have lost my reputation!' because of the consequences that will follow after Othello strips him of his position.With the reputation of those higher than him coming to his level, Iago then has more of a chance to become Othello's lieutenant because he is effectively next in line.
Othello says “My blood begins my safer guides to rule/And passion, having my best judgements collied/Assays to lead the way.” (lines 201-203) What does this quotation reveal about the effects of Iago’s knavery in this scene?
Othello admits that he is more of the irrational type (Porey's racial stereotype) as he is lead more by emotions 'passion' which reveals his weak point; what could be argued to be his tragic flaw. This quotation reveals that Iago's plan will most likely work out due to Othello being strongly led by his emotions. This, tied in with Iago's untrustworthy nature, hints that Othello will have his downfall provoked by Iago taking advantage of Othello's irrational trait.
Why is this scene important in relation to the play as a whole?
Consider:
How Iago is presented
What happens in the scene
What this scene indicates about key characters
This scene is important to the play because it is where the place of tragedy really begins. The celebration is the first big event to happen since arriving to Cyprus and brings in Othello's involvement in Iago's plan. Iago is presented as malicious to the audience, especially because he has ruined Cassio's reputation and also managed to create a temporary feud between Roderigo and Cassio 'Dost thou prate, rogue?' (L139). The audience is aware that all of the issues raised are caused by Iago, however the audience are also aware that Iago manages to shift the blame from himself and is able to get away with the other characters not knowing he is behind all of the disputes. As well as the audience getting a stronger awareness of Iago's character, the audience are also made aware that Cassio cannot handle his alcohol, Othello is more led by emotions and Roderigo wants to win over Desdemona which sets a strong basis for the play to build and more mischief for Iago to perpetuate.
Iago's use of prose is more persuasive towards Cassio and makes Iago seem more comfortable and close to Cassio. Cassio tends to speak in verse because he is a noble man, however then converges to prose when talking to Iago as though Iago changes his parts of Cassio's personality to become more colloquial with him and pulled down to Iago's level. Iago is, in a way, in control of the way Cassio speaks as Cassio is easily persuaded and wants to get along with everyone due to his nature.
What language does Cassio use when speaking about Desdemona? How does it compare to the language Iago uses to sexualise her? Why do you think Iago is speaking about Desdemona in this way to Cassio? (lines 15-25) AO2 LF
Cassio speaks kindly of Desdemona and uses language with a lexical field of beauty and purity when talking about her 'most fresh and delicate creature' (L19) as though she is similar to a Goddess. Compared to Iago's descriptive sexualised language 'full of game' (L18) implying that she is sexually active; Cassio seems to value Desdemona as a person more than Iago who mostly see's her as a sexual object. Iago speaks of Desdemona in this way to plant a lustful seed for Cassio so that Cassio will desire her more and feel more jealous of Othello.
How does Iago persuade Cassio to drink? Use your close reading skills to analyse the language he uses. AO2 LFS
Originally, Cassio warns Iago that he is a lightweight 'poor and unhappy brains for drinking' (L30) but Iago tells him to celebrate with the declarative sentence ''Tis a night of revels; the gallants desire it' (L37) and tells him to drink 'but one cup' (L32) as though one cup of alcohol will have little effect on Cassio thus persuading him to get drunk. Cassio agrees 'I'll do't; but it dislikes me' (L40) however knows that it's not the best idea and is actually against his original plan and is now deceiving Othello all thanks to Iago.
Why does Iago try to subvert the social order and bring others down to his level, rather than try to climb the ladder and raise himself up? Consider ideas about social order at the time AO3, context.
Iago brings people down to his level to belittle their reputation. Reputation is a big deal in the army, even more so in the 1600s. If Iago were to climb the rankings, it is less stress on manipulation of others and more on himself to gain a better reputation. Cassio is concerned about his rankings 'O, I have lost my reputation!' because of the consequences that will follow after Othello strips him of his position.With the reputation of those higher than him coming to his level, Iago then has more of a chance to become Othello's lieutenant because he is effectively next in line.
Othello says “My blood begins my safer guides to rule/And passion, having my best judgements collied/Assays to lead the way.” (lines 201-203) What does this quotation reveal about the effects of Iago’s knavery in this scene?
Othello admits that he is more of the irrational type (Porey's racial stereotype) as he is lead more by emotions 'passion' which reveals his weak point; what could be argued to be his tragic flaw. This quotation reveals that Iago's plan will most likely work out due to Othello being strongly led by his emotions. This, tied in with Iago's untrustworthy nature, hints that Othello will have his downfall provoked by Iago taking advantage of Othello's irrational trait.
Why is this scene important in relation to the play as a whole?
Consider:
How Iago is presented
What happens in the scene
What this scene indicates about key characters
This scene is important to the play because it is where the place of tragedy really begins. The celebration is the first big event to happen since arriving to Cyprus and brings in Othello's involvement in Iago's plan. Iago is presented as malicious to the audience, especially because he has ruined Cassio's reputation and also managed to create a temporary feud between Roderigo and Cassio 'Dost thou prate, rogue?' (L139). The audience is aware that all of the issues raised are caused by Iago, however the audience are also aware that Iago manages to shift the blame from himself and is able to get away with the other characters not knowing he is behind all of the disputes. As well as the audience getting a stronger awareness of Iago's character, the audience are also made aware that Cassio cannot handle his alcohol, Othello is more led by emotions and Roderigo wants to win over Desdemona which sets a strong basis for the play to build and more mischief for Iago to perpetuate.
Monday 7 March 2016
ACT 2 SC 1 QUESTIONS
What sort of person is Cassio?
Cassio is a very open and friendly person because of where he was brought up (Florence) and the way he was brought up. Cassio is aware of his over-friendliness ''tis my breeding that gives me this bold show of courtesy' (L100) and sets the record straight to Iago that he is just being polite to Emilia. Cassio is different from the other men, and this difference is later used against him in the play because sometimes his open behaviour can be interpreted as slightly inappropriate.
How does Iago plan to use Cassio’s character traits to usurp and ensnare both Cassio and Othello?
Iago plans to 'ensnare as great a fly as Cassio' (L167) and 'gyve thee in thine own courtship' (L177), meaning that Iago will essentially get Cassio in a position where he will be caught out by his own morals (being friendly and tactile). Iago wants to take Cassio's place as Lieutenant 'strip you out of your lieutenancy' (L169) and will do this by catching him out when he's being extra friendly to Desdemona 'clyster-pipes for your sake' (L174) and then will convince Othello the situation is worse than it really is.
What does Iago tell Roderigo to do, and why does Iago say it will help Roderigo to win Desdemona’s heart?
Iago convinces Roderigo to persevere with winning Desdemona's heart and tells him that Desdemona will get bored of Othello because he's not as magnificent as he seems 'all which the Moor is defective in' (L225). Desdemona most likely won't get bored of Othello because she does love him. Iago then points out to Roderigo that when Desdemona gets bored of Othello she will go for Cassio 'who stands so eminent in the degree of this fortune as Cassio does' (L231), so convinces Roderigo to carry on with Desdemona and tells Roderigo to make Cassio angry 'anger Cassio' (L260) so that Cassio's reputation will be tainted 'tainting his discipline'(L261). In Roderiogo's eyes, Desdemona will no longer feel lustful towards Cassio after his outbust, so Roderigo can swoop in and win her for himself, when really it's so that Iago will seem better than Cassio and Othello will want Iago as his Lieutenant. Iago finally tells Roderigo to anger Cassio when he is drunk 'he's rash and very sudden in choler' (L264) so that he will humiliate himself in front of everyone at the party and will be easy to manipulate.
What more do we learn about the nature of Iago in Act 2?
What is the effect of having him share his thoughts and plans with us through his soliloquies? Pay attention to the language used in Iago's soliloquies. What sorts of descriptive language does he use? How does it contribute to the picture of Iago that Shakespeare is drawing?
In Act 2, it is more evident that Iago is manipulating and is set on what he wants, therefore will do anything to get it. By Iago sharing his thoughts with the audience with asides, the audience gets a more in depth understanding of Iago as opposed to the other characters. Letting the audience in on Iago's thoughts strengthens the element of tragedy because Iago is a large contributor to Othello's downfall and death, so Iago's soliloquies are a constant reminder that Othello is going to die, including dramatic irony to the piece. Iago uses the first person personal pronoun 'I' in almost every line which make his asides seem extremely personal to the audience and builds a bridge between the audience and his character. Iago talking in soliloquies makes his speeches easier to listen to and comprehend because of the way it's set out and it brings across the idea that Iago thoroughly thinks and plans. Iago also uses lots of metaphors in his soliloquies to create images in the minds of the audience 'Hath leaped into my seat (...) gnaw my inwards' (L287) thus creating a clearer picture of what he has in store.
Cassio is a very open and friendly person because of where he was brought up (Florence) and the way he was brought up. Cassio is aware of his over-friendliness ''tis my breeding that gives me this bold show of courtesy' (L100) and sets the record straight to Iago that he is just being polite to Emilia. Cassio is different from the other men, and this difference is later used against him in the play because sometimes his open behaviour can be interpreted as slightly inappropriate.
How does Iago plan to use Cassio’s character traits to usurp and ensnare both Cassio and Othello?
Iago plans to 'ensnare as great a fly as Cassio' (L167) and 'gyve thee in thine own courtship' (L177), meaning that Iago will essentially get Cassio in a position where he will be caught out by his own morals (being friendly and tactile). Iago wants to take Cassio's place as Lieutenant 'strip you out of your lieutenancy' (L169) and will do this by catching him out when he's being extra friendly to Desdemona 'clyster-pipes for your sake' (L174) and then will convince Othello the situation is worse than it really is.
What does Iago tell Roderigo to do, and why does Iago say it will help Roderigo to win Desdemona’s heart?
Iago convinces Roderigo to persevere with winning Desdemona's heart and tells him that Desdemona will get bored of Othello because he's not as magnificent as he seems 'all which the Moor is defective in' (L225). Desdemona most likely won't get bored of Othello because she does love him. Iago then points out to Roderigo that when Desdemona gets bored of Othello she will go for Cassio 'who stands so eminent in the degree of this fortune as Cassio does' (L231), so convinces Roderigo to carry on with Desdemona and tells Roderigo to make Cassio angry 'anger Cassio' (L260) so that Cassio's reputation will be tainted 'tainting his discipline'(L261). In Roderiogo's eyes, Desdemona will no longer feel lustful towards Cassio after his outbust, so Roderigo can swoop in and win her for himself, when really it's so that Iago will seem better than Cassio and Othello will want Iago as his Lieutenant. Iago finally tells Roderigo to anger Cassio when he is drunk 'he's rash and very sudden in choler' (L264) so that he will humiliate himself in front of everyone at the party and will be easy to manipulate.
What more do we learn about the nature of Iago in Act 2?
What is the effect of having him share his thoughts and plans with us through his soliloquies? Pay attention to the language used in Iago's soliloquies. What sorts of descriptive language does he use? How does it contribute to the picture of Iago that Shakespeare is drawing?
In Act 2, it is more evident that Iago is manipulating and is set on what he wants, therefore will do anything to get it. By Iago sharing his thoughts with the audience with asides, the audience gets a more in depth understanding of Iago as opposed to the other characters. Letting the audience in on Iago's thoughts strengthens the element of tragedy because Iago is a large contributor to Othello's downfall and death, so Iago's soliloquies are a constant reminder that Othello is going to die, including dramatic irony to the piece. Iago uses the first person personal pronoun 'I' in almost every line which make his asides seem extremely personal to the audience and builds a bridge between the audience and his character. Iago talking in soliloquies makes his speeches easier to listen to and comprehend because of the way it's set out and it brings across the idea that Iago thoroughly thinks and plans. Iago also uses lots of metaphors in his soliloquies to create images in the minds of the audience 'Hath leaped into my seat (...) gnaw my inwards' (L287) thus creating a clearer picture of what he has in store.
Monday 29 February 2016
Othello Act1 Sc3 Questions
How do the Duke and Senators speak of Othello?
The Duke and Senator 1 refer to Othello as 'valiant' (brave), but he is still called the Moor by Senator 1. The Duke refers to Othello by his actual name, showing more respect for Othello even though he is black.
How does Brabantio speak of his daughter?
Brabantio is aware that Desdemona is not stupid 'being not deficient, blind or lame of sense' so whatever has happened to her must be fairly serious in his opinion. Brabantio then goes on to imply that Desdemona is much better than that (marrying Othello) and must have been drugged 'against the rules of nature' and 'conjoured to this effect' to have such a mindset. Brabantio also talks of Desdemona being 'stolen' as though she is a possession to him which can be taken away from him, showing the objectification of women.
What do we learn about views towards foreigners/moors?
Othello as The Moor is described as 'valiant' (L47 and L48) by the Duke and Senator 1 which is a positive slant on his personality, however Brabantoio, after finding out Othello has married his daughter, is certain that The Moor has used 'some mixtures powerful o'er the blood(...)conjured to this effect, he wrought upon her' (L104) implying that The Moor is not worthy enough of his daughter and has elements of mysticality as he is able to use magic. Views not only to The Moor but foreigners also is that they are objects of curiosity because of their extravagant adventures. Othello retells the stories said to Desdemona to the court and talks of 'disastrous chances' (134), 'being taken by the insolent foe' (137) and 'sold to slavery' (138) which occurred because he is different/ 'foreign'.
What is ironic about Othello's claim that "Rude am I in my speech"?
Othello claims that his speech will be 'rude', setting the court up to believe that he isn't very good at speaking aloud and less eloquent than those around him yet after his monologue entailing how he 'wooed' Desdemona (by, ironically, telling stories) the Duke tells him that 'this tale would win my daughter too' (L171). Othello clearly is well spoken and interesting to listen to because it is how he 'won' Desdemona and explains that his storytelling is 'the only witchcraft I have used' (169).
What is startling about Othello's decision to let Desdemona speak on his behalf?
During this time period (1600's) women were extremely subordinate and to be speaking in court was very rare. Desdemona defends herself and her marriage in court after being encouraged by her father 'where most you owe obedience?' (179) and explains she is to be more dutiful to Othello now that they are married because that is the female tradition which she is following from her mother 'here's my husband(...)preferring you before her father' (184) and so Desdemona favours The Moor over Brabantio. On line 248 Desdemona declares that she wants to go to Cyprus with The Moor 'that I did love the Moor to live with him' which again is rather startling because usually women of that time have no say in what they do, and for Desdemona to choose where she will go challenges the status quo of women (which Desdemona has done before choosing to marry the Moor).
Using the thinking question below, what 'stories' does Othello tell in his speech to the senate?
'Othello's tragedy is that he lives according to a set of stories through which he interprets the world-an ideology- but it is a world that has been superseded. He cannot see that this is so, and the contradictions within his ideology destroy him. He is living in the life of a chivalric warrior in a world run by money and self-interest'.
Othello talks of his times in battle and as a soldier and how he has been a brave and great soldier that has fought hard to get where he is today 'the battles, sieges, fortunes that I have passed' (130) and how he was 'sold to slavery' (138), even horrific sights where 'cannibals that each other eat' (143) however the war he is about to face isn't a war at all and therefore he is out of his comfort zone. Othello has no war, battle or siege to fight so lets his weaknesses (believing rumours) take over him because he has nothing better to do; he has little experience in this specific field. This is inflicted by Iago's realisation that the world is run by money and self-interest and uses ways of manipulation to get what he wants (money and Othello gone) while Othello is still living on in his glory as a chivilric soldier.
The Duke and Senator 1 refer to Othello as 'valiant' (brave), but he is still called the Moor by Senator 1. The Duke refers to Othello by his actual name, showing more respect for Othello even though he is black.
How does Brabantio speak of his daughter?
Brabantio is aware that Desdemona is not stupid 'being not deficient, blind or lame of sense' so whatever has happened to her must be fairly serious in his opinion. Brabantio then goes on to imply that Desdemona is much better than that (marrying Othello) and must have been drugged 'against the rules of nature' and 'conjoured to this effect' to have such a mindset. Brabantio also talks of Desdemona being 'stolen' as though she is a possession to him which can be taken away from him, showing the objectification of women.
What do we learn about views towards foreigners/moors?
Othello as The Moor is described as 'valiant' (L47 and L48) by the Duke and Senator 1 which is a positive slant on his personality, however Brabantoio, after finding out Othello has married his daughter, is certain that The Moor has used 'some mixtures powerful o'er the blood(...)conjured to this effect, he wrought upon her' (L104) implying that The Moor is not worthy enough of his daughter and has elements of mysticality as he is able to use magic. Views not only to The Moor but foreigners also is that they are objects of curiosity because of their extravagant adventures. Othello retells the stories said to Desdemona to the court and talks of 'disastrous chances' (134), 'being taken by the insolent foe' (137) and 'sold to slavery' (138) which occurred because he is different/ 'foreign'.
What is ironic about Othello's claim that "Rude am I in my speech"?
Othello claims that his speech will be 'rude', setting the court up to believe that he isn't very good at speaking aloud and less eloquent than those around him yet after his monologue entailing how he 'wooed' Desdemona (by, ironically, telling stories) the Duke tells him that 'this tale would win my daughter too' (L171). Othello clearly is well spoken and interesting to listen to because it is how he 'won' Desdemona and explains that his storytelling is 'the only witchcraft I have used' (169).
What is startling about Othello's decision to let Desdemona speak on his behalf?
During this time period (1600's) women were extremely subordinate and to be speaking in court was very rare. Desdemona defends herself and her marriage in court after being encouraged by her father 'where most you owe obedience?' (179) and explains she is to be more dutiful to Othello now that they are married because that is the female tradition which she is following from her mother 'here's my husband(...)preferring you before her father' (184) and so Desdemona favours The Moor over Brabantio. On line 248 Desdemona declares that she wants to go to Cyprus with The Moor 'that I did love the Moor to live with him' which again is rather startling because usually women of that time have no say in what they do, and for Desdemona to choose where she will go challenges the status quo of women (which Desdemona has done before choosing to marry the Moor).
Using the thinking question below, what 'stories' does Othello tell in his speech to the senate?
'Othello's tragedy is that he lives according to a set of stories through which he interprets the world-an ideology- but it is a world that has been superseded. He cannot see that this is so, and the contradictions within his ideology destroy him. He is living in the life of a chivalric warrior in a world run by money and self-interest'.
Othello talks of his times in battle and as a soldier and how he has been a brave and great soldier that has fought hard to get where he is today 'the battles, sieges, fortunes that I have passed' (130) and how he was 'sold to slavery' (138), even horrific sights where 'cannibals that each other eat' (143) however the war he is about to face isn't a war at all and therefore he is out of his comfort zone. Othello has no war, battle or siege to fight so lets his weaknesses (believing rumours) take over him because he has nothing better to do; he has little experience in this specific field. This is inflicted by Iago's realisation that the world is run by money and self-interest and uses ways of manipulation to get what he wants (money and Othello gone) while Othello is still living on in his glory as a chivilric soldier.
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