othello essay answers

by William Shakespeare

Othello essay questions.

How is Othello's race a factor in the play?

Othello ascends to the rank of the Venetian military, a city - much like Elizabethan England when the play was written - rife with racism. A general in the army, Othello holds a distinguished place in the Duke's court due to his victories in battle, but not an equal one. He suffers barbs and preconceived notions, yet Othello is esteemed and wins the love of the daughter of a nobleman. However, Brabantio is enraged by Othello's marriage to Desdemona and claims Othello used magic to compel her to run to his "sooty bosom". Race is a factor in the tragedy both in those who seek to destroy Othello, and the victims of the schemes - Othello and Desdemona. Perhaps the most pernicious form of race as an instrument of division is Othello's own view of himself as an outsider, which makes him more susceptible to Iago's plan.

How does Shakespeare's use of language reveal character?

Often Shakespeare uses verse lines written in iambic pentameter to illustrate nobility. It is illustrative of Iago's duplicitous nature that he tends to speak in verse when he is with Othello and in prose for his soliloquies. One way in which Iago is a master in manipulation is his tendency to use Othello's own words to disguise his active role of instigator and make it seem that any dark thought came not from him but Othello's own mind. Othello's speech is very sophisticated at the beginning of the play, and in his soliloquy at the close of Act V, but when he is consumed with jealous rage, his eloquence falters. Shakespeare uses dialogue to convey the innerworkings of his characters.

Othello is often called a tragic hero. Discuss his heroic qualities as well as his flaws which lead to his demise.

At the beginning of the play Othello is presented as an honorable man of noble stature and high position. In the end it is his misguided attempt to maintain that honor which brings about his, and Desdemona's, demise. However, Othello is not simply the victim of a plot. Iago is able to engineer Othello's downfall in part because of Othello's own insecurities. His pride blinds him to his weaknesses, and he puts his faith in Iago over the word of his love, Desdemona. Othello is obsessed with his reputation, and ends up killing his wife to save face. Only to a flawed man would murder seem like a solution to a problem of reputation. Othello is spurred on by lies and misrepresentations, but he brings about his own undoing.

What motives, stated and implied, does Iago have for taking revenge on Othello?

Iago's stated reason for taking revenge on Othello is that he has been passed over for Cassio's post. But is this enough for him to "hate the Moor"? It is clear that he is jealous of Othello's ascension in the court and successful wooing of Desdemona. Othello's race and status as an outsider also seems to fuel this rage, as well as the rumor that Othello has slept with Iago's wife, Emilia. None of these motivations, however, seem to add up to inspire the violence that unfolds. Iago remains one of the most purely evil of Shakespeare's villains.

Discuss how loyalty is presented as a positive and a negative quality throughout the play.

Othello's lack of loyalty is what incites Iago's plan for revenge. Iago's ability to fool Othello that he is loyal while secretly plotting his demise is what makes his revenge effective. It is Othello's belief in Desdemona's lack of loyalty that seals their fates. In these ways loyalty, when misconstrued, can be dangerous. However Desdemona's loyalty to Othello even in her death and Othello's loyalty to her once his mistake is revealed are seen as ennobling aspects of their characters.

Compare and contrast the jealousy of Othello to that of Iago.

One major theme in Othello is revenge - Iago's revenge on Othello and Othello's revenge on Desdemona. They both believe death will bring justice. Iago's revenge is cooler, plotted out over time where Othello's is an act of heartbroken passion. Iago wears his lack of morals as a badge of honor where it is Othello's moral code that leads to his tragic end.

Although Othello is the title character in what way is Iago the main character?

Often in Shakespeare's plays such as Hamlet or King Lear , the title character is the main character and protagonist. In Othello this is not the case. Iago has almost 20% more lines than Othello, and has more asides with the audience. While it is Othello's decisions and actions that provide the dramatic structure for the play, it is Iago who sets in motion those decisions and spurs him to action. Othello is the tragic figure of the play, along with Desdemona, and it his characteristics that lend itself to most of the themes - jealousy, race, trust. However, Iago is the character who drives the plot.

How does Desdemona's dying assertion that she killed herself effect how you see her character?

From a modern feminist viewpoint Desdemona may be judged harshly for answering Emilia, when she asked who has mortally attacked her, "nobody; I myself. Farewell." Furthermore, she seemed resigned to her fate at the hands of her husband. While contemporary audiences may interpret these actions as unfathomable, they highlight the goodness of her character. Desdemona is described by others in the play with words that symbolize goodness - light, white, fair, delicate, alabaster. By the end of the play, Desdemona begins to symbolize goodness itself, so her reaction to her murder becomes another element in Othello's tragic end. Desdemona still loves Othello, though he is mistaken, and she goes to her death professing her husband's reputation. A modern audience may wish for a response that is less melodramatic, but that is not the world that Shakespeare has created in this play.

In what ways do Othello's suicide strengthen or undermine his heroism?

Though suicide is not usually the chosen end for a heroic figure, it is Othello's only escape from the crimes he has committed. Though the victim of Iago's trickery, Othello is still the author of his own demise. For Desdemona's death to be answered by anything less than his own would have felt false.

Describe how Othello's pride leads to his fall.

At the beginning of the play Othello is proud of himself and his achievements, but when Iago looks to punish Othello for his perceived slight, it is his pride that he preys upon. The belief that Desdemona has tainted his honor ignites Othello's rage, but it is his pride that blinds him to the fact that the evidence of her acts are lies invented not by a loyal friend but an enemy bent on his destruction.

Othello Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for Othello is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

what attributers of the green eyed monster jealousy are made painful apparent as the scene progresses

Jealousy is the green-eyed monster in this scene. In Act 3 scene 3 Othello pretty much displays his jealousy,

desdemonas speech here confirms the masterly nature of iagos plot with what words does she assure cassio that she will do her best to get him reinstated

What is your question here?

why does othello ignore the cries for help?

Othello is hurdling towards self-destruction: sadly, by the deaths of people closest to him. Like tragic heroes such as Macbeth, Othello's senses are dull to tragedy and screams of terror. Roderigo and Cassio fight, and both are injured; Othello...

Study Guide for Othello

Othello study guide contains a biography of William Shakespeare, literature essays, a complete e-text, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

• About Othello
• Othello Summary
• Othello Video
• Character List

Essays for Othello

Othello essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of Othello by William Shakespeare.

• Iago and Edmund: The Silence and Complexity of Evil
• Unity in Shakespeare's Tragedies
• Inevitability and the Nature of Shakespeare's Tragedies
• Witchy Women: Female Magic and Otherness in Western Literature
• Racism in Othello

Lesson Plan for Othello

• About the Author
• Study Objectives
• Common Core Standards
• Introduction to Othello
• Relationship to Other Books
• Bringing in Technology
• Notes to the Teacher
• Related Links
• Othello Bibliography

E-Text of Othello

Othello e-text contains the full text of Othello by William Shakespeare.

• List of Characters

Wikipedia Entries for Othello

• Introduction
• Date and sources
• Themes and critical approaches

Awaken English

All things Educational. Sharing resources for Secondary English

Othello: Essay Questions

A list of potential essay questions to form revision and speed planning practice:

Jealousy is at the core of all the tragic events that occur in Othello.’ In the light of this statement, explore the dramatic function of jealousy in Shakespeare’s play. In your answer, you must consider relevant contextual factors.

‘Despite his suffering, Othello learns nothing.’ In the light of this statement, explore Shakespeare’s presentation of Othello in the play. In your answer, you must consider relevant contextual factors.

‘Othello depicts a world riddled with corruption and prejudice’. In the light of this statement, explore Shakespeare’s presentation of the values of the world in which the play is set. In your answer, you must consider relevant contextual factors.

‘Irony is a powerful device that Shakespeare uses to heighten the tragedy of Othello.’ In the light of this statement, discuss Shakespeare’s use of irony in the play. In your answer, you must consider relevant contextual factors

‘Othello’s foolishness, as much as Iago’s cleverness, is responsible for the tragedy that unfolds.’ In the light of this statement, explore where responsibility for the tragedy might lie. In your answer, you must consider relevant contextual factors.

‘The settings in Othello are not just times and places in which action happens: they are deeply symbolic and add greatly to the meaning of the play as a whole.’ In the light of this statement, explore Shakespeare’s use of settings in the play. In your answer, you must consider relevant contextual factors.

Looking for more resources on Othello?

A compendium of useful links, exemplar material, resources and home learning

Othello Knowledge Organiser

An Othello Knowledge Organiser, based on William Shakespeare’s seminal play, including key vocabulary and crucial literary allusions and comparisons. My knowledge organisers distill important information from the text in clear and manageable pieces of information for both students to revise from, and teachers planning new curriculum content.

The Knowledge Organiser is structured into three key areas: Critical Theory, Intertextuality and Context as well as Biblical Allusions. Whilst also incorporating key quotations for each character in short sharp, high utility phrases which can be used in a range of essays.

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115 Othello Essay Topics & Examples

Most Othello essay samples analyze the plot, thesis, and characters of William Shakespeare’s The Tragedy of Othello, the Moor of Venice. The tragedy is based on n Cinthio’s story ‘Un Capitano Moro.’

Before you start writing your Othello essay, you must have a clear understanding of who The Moor is. We hope that you already have read the plot or watched the play.

However, some students lack an idea of the object because they have not come across Shakespeare’s masterpiece or any information concerning Othello. This post will help you to ask Othello essay questions and successfully write your paper.

✨ How to Write an Othello Essay?

• 🏆 Best Othello Essay Topics & Essay Examples

👍 Good Ideas for an Essay on Othello

💡 most interesting othello topics to write about, ❓ othello essay questions.

Before you start outlining, you should ask yourself: what or who is Othello? Your answer is significant as it expresses your interest in the subject and, therefore, motivates you to research the chosen topic.

When working on your Othello essay introduction, you should get a clear understanding of The Moor character and its origin.

Your intro should thoroughly explain the subject to your audience. Don’t forget to include a thesis which discloses the central message of your paper. Put it at the end of your intro.

The next step is planning the essay body. Here are some questions you may answer in your Othello character analysis:

• Describe Othello: Who is he? When he lives, his life, occupation, etc.
• Is Othello a good character or bad? Do you identify with Othello?
• Why is Othello famous to date? What makes him popular?
• What is his role in the play? Why is Othello character crucial to the tragedy? Would the story so attractive without Othello?
• Does the play reflect contemporary issues?
• What did you learn from Othello?

Explain the pointers above and provide a better understanding of the Othello character to your readers.

If you need more sample ideas for your Othello essay outline, check them below:

• The role of race in Shakespeare’s tragedy. At the beginning of the plot, Othello’s name is not mentioned, although everyone knows he is dark-skinned and different. Discuss in your essay, how it would impact the play if Othello were white. Argue if the character’s race is matter in the story.
• The role of loyalty. Shakespeare showed how loyalty could have both positive and negative attributes. Othello’s belief in Desdemona’s lack of allegiance caused their destiny. Use it as an example of how devotion can be dangerous if it is used for bad reasons.
• The role of Desdemona. Is she is a passive victim of Othello? Analyze how her character changes when she is not with him. Think of how victim behavior can cause even more violence.
• Relationships between characters in the play. In your essay, you can examine relationships and emotions between Othello and Desdemona, the villainy of Iago’s character, Emilia’s emotions for Iago and Othello, and love of Roderigo for Desdemona.

In your Othello essay conclusion, sum up all the issues you disclosed in the body. Avoid introducing new points. Instead, highlight the thesis statement to show your readers that your essay supports it.

After you’ve finished your essay, don’t forget to proofread it and wipe out grammar, punctuation, and spelling mistakes.

We hope that the tips above will ease your writing an outstanding paper. Make sure to check our website for more Othello essay topics!

🏆 Best Othello Topic Ideas & Essay Examples

• The Downfall of Othello The properties of Othello are given to Cassio who also assumes position that had been held by Othello The downfall of Othello is evidenced by death of his wife, loss of property and his own […]
• Theme of Jealousy in Othello by Shakespeare The jealousy displayed by Othello and the villainous nature of Lago are some of the qualities that impress the readers of the play.
• The Relevance of “Othello” by William Shakespeare in the Current Society The paper demonstrates the relevance of Othello to the contemporary audience by highlighting the existence of the major issues Shakespeare addresses in this play.
• The Movie Adaptation of the “Othello” by William Shakespeare In its turn, this explains the lessened plausibility of film’s action, as compared to what it is being the case with original tragedy.
• Othello as the Outsider In the play, Othello strives to emphasize that his blackness is insignificant impediment and highlight the advantages of his origin revealing the positive features of his character and behavior.
• The Tragedy of Othello: Critical Analysis — Othello Critical Essay The imagination of the audience is captured by the fact that the drama involves interracial marriage that was unfathomable in those days.
• Female Characters in Shakespeare’s “Othello”: A Feminist Critique This shows that Desdemona has completely accepted and respected her role as a woman in the society; she is an obedient wife to Othello.
• Iago the Gardener`s Behavior in “Othello” by Shakespeare In the lead-up to the passage to be analyzed, Iago has tried to turn Brabantio, Desdemona’s father, against Othello by letting him know his daughter is “making the beast with two backs” with the Moor.
• Character of Iago in “Othello” by Shakespeare Analysis It is worth mentioning here that it is this attributes that he possessed that made him successful in manipulating other characters painting him to be a strong and compelling character.
• Othello’s Tragedy Othello is one of the characters who have features in William Shakespeare’s tragedy titled The Tragedy of Othello, the Moor of Venice. It is clear to note that the tragedy that befell Othello was because […]
• Story, Plot, and Symbolism of “Othello” Film The movie’s point of attack is Othello’s decision to overlook Iago for a promotion to the position of Lieutenant in favor of Cassio.
• Othello’s Fall From Grace and Redemption at the End of the Play At the end of the play, Othello’s realizes that his naivety and lack of confidences in his wife’ innocence and fidelity.
• Comparison of “Hamlet”, “King Lear” and “Othello” by Shakespeare Iago’s reports and the loss of the handkerchief appear to Othello reliable proofs of Desdemona’s unfaithfulness, and under the effect of anger the protagonist is both unable and unwilling to do further investigation.
• Cultural Diversity in the Play “Othello” It is the role of men to support women in this society, and that is why Desdemona’s father goes to court immediately, he is convinced that his daughter was bewitched by Othello.
• Jealousy in “Othello” by W.Shakespear Othello is not perfect either and the reason he acts the way he acts is that he is jealous; not that Desdemona cannot match his ‘principles’.
• Minor Characters’ Role in the “Othello” by William Shakespeare In his play Othello, William Shakespeare also accentuates the meaning of minor characters and their actions for the development of the tragedy in Othello’s life.
• Othello and Desdemona in “Othello” by Shakespeare This essay will discuss why the relationship between Othello and Desdemona was doomed from the start and how their tragic fate relates to the topic of jealousy.
• Salih’s “Season of Migration to the North” and “Othello” by Shakespeare In his journey through those worst performances on English women leading a few to suicide, he did not consider the situation and emotions of women he met.
• Shakespeare’s ‘Othello’ Act 1 Scene 2, Lines 60-82 This passage is in the form of a dialogue between the two characters in the play. The above lines portray Othello as a victim of prejudice.
• Othello: A Tragic Hero Through the Prism of Aristotle’s Definition According to him, the prerequisite of a tragedy revolves around the plot of the play. Othello, who is the main character, is a perfect example of a tragic hero.
• The Tragedy of Othello by William Shakespeare: Bianca’s Innocence The Tragedy of Othello the Moor of Venice is considered one of the most popular works of William Shakespeare. The young courtesan, Bianca, is presented in the play as the mistress of one of the […]
• “Othello” by William Shakespeare: Summary and Analysis He in this way believes that Iago is an honest man and trusts him to an extent that, he leaves him with his wife and entrusts him to take care of his wife through the […]
• The Heroism of Othello He is a tragic hero because of how he fits the mold, with the single difference that instead of pride, Othello is unwise in his placement of loyalties.
• Racism in Play “Othello” by William Shakespeare Since Othello is dark-skinned, the society is against his marriage to the daughter of the senator of Venice. In summary, the play Othello is captivating and presents racism as it was.
• Appearance in “Othello” and “A Raisin in the Sun” The paper under analysis is based on the comparison of Othello by Shakespeare and A Raising in the Sun by Hansberry through the manifesting of the theme of the racial segregation and the nature of […]
• Main Themes in “Othello” and “Chronicle of a Death Foretold” In fact, it appears that this passion is encouraged by the feelings of regret and shame more than by affection to Bayardo.
• Social Issues in Shakespeare’s “The Tragedy of Othello” The social environment of England at the end of the sixteenth and the beginning of the seventeenth century was characterized by great attention to social class, citizens’ jobs, and their reputation.
• The Ultimate Irony: “Othello” by Shakespeare Iago, a jealous man from the beginning of the play, pretends to befriend Othello and speaks to him about the danger of jealousy.
• Why “Othello” by William Shakespeare Is a Tragedy To be classified as an Aristotelian tragedy, a film or story must be complex and include a situation in which a respectable person suffers a complete reversal of fortunes due to a fatal mistake and […]
• Othello and Oedipus Rex Characters’ Traits The two characters had to overcome several obstacles in a manner that led many of their followers to respect and honor them, and their royal positions Othello can be considered to be a black member […]
• The Life and Work of William Shakespeare: His Contribution to the Contemporary Theater In addition, the plays and sonnets of William Shakespeare continue to set the standard for the study of the English language in its dramatic context in institutes of higher learning and performance training.
• Shakespeare’s Othello, the Moor of Venice Iago’s paranoia is tremendous to an extent that his insanity is portrayed when he deludes Othello to kill his own wife.
• Racism in Shakespeare’s “Othello” The purpose of this essay is to detect and analyze various traits of racism in Shakespeare’s famous piece Othello and how it relates to the character of Othello.
• Racism in Shakespeare’s “Othello” and Dick’s “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?” The formalist analysis of Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep repeats the same mistake, as it focuses on the plot devices and tropes presented in the story.
• The Tragedy of Othello They include Othello, who is the lead actor; Desdemona, Othello’s wife; Cassio, Othello’s lieutenant; and Iago a junior officer in the army.
• The Theme of the Tragic Hero “Othello” For Othello, the doubt and suspicion growing in his mind regarding a possible relationship between Cassio and Desdemona were started with Desdemona’s father at the beginning of the play. For Othello, his greatest weakness is […]
• Symbolism in Shakespeare’s Othello and Pope’s The Rape of the Lock This paper aims to compare the aspects of symbolism in Othello and The Rape of the Lock. The lock in the poem “The Rape of the Lock” is more than just a coiled strand of […]
• ”Othello” and ”Chronicle of a Death Foretold”: A Difference Between Love and Passion Consequently, I believe that differences between passion and love have a tendency to exist, as passion is the uncontrolled actions to show affection, and love is the act of the understanding of the behavior of […]
• Iago and Othello Relationships With the help of relationships between Iago and Othello, Shakespeare conveyed the idea that good and evil have to coexist for the sake of the world balance.
• Female Character in the Shakespeare’s Othello It appears that the primary role of women in the play is for them to act as a basis on which men are evaluated.
• The Character of Iago in Shakespeare’s Othello The greatest evil in the play, the catalyst for the tragedy to unfold, appears to be “the Devil,” the avatar of which can be seen in Iago.
• Comparison of Marriage in Elizabethan Times and in “Othello” The man was believed to be the head of the family, and he had the legal right to punish his wife.
• Shakespeare’s Othello as a Subaltern Play Othello is considered a subaltern play that illustrates the conflict between the moral voice and silence of female characters and the treacherous voices of male figures.
• Anti-Racism in Shakespeare’s Othello For Shakespeare, Brabantio’s views are representative of the racial prejudice of the society in general, rather than of his personal feelings towards the protagonist. On the other hand, Othello’s story is cohesive and believable; he […]
• Critical Analysis of Shakespeare’s, “Othello”, Act V, Scene II Othello, a husband to Desdemona realizes later that Desdemona was a faithful and loving woman. Othello is determined to kill her however her beauty and innocent appearance restrict Othello.
• Machiavelli and Othello’s Leadership Skills It is not that easy to control lots of people, and this is why it is better to define the steps, which will help to take everything under control and not to be kept by […]
• Othello and Desdemona: Emotional Strangers Unaware of what is happening, Desdemona continues to show her fierce devotion to her husband which both blinds her to the truth of Othello’s murderous emotions and feeds them.
• “Othello” Through the Lens of Feminist Theory It depicts female characters in a state of submission and obedience and shows the disbalance in the distribution of power between men and women.
• Iago’s Motives in Shakespeare’s Othello Play He does not seek to seize the treasure his intention is only to deprive the possessor of the treasure of pleasure. A cynic to the depths of his brain, he sees only the flipside in […]
• Philosophy of Literature: Shakespearean Tragedy In addition, it is also an indication of the facts that human beings are always nosy and ready to participate in other people’s issues.
• Dramatic Irony in the “Othello” by William Shakespeare Othello, an eloquent and physically fit person is considered as the protagonist and hero of the play; however, in spite of his elevated status, he is nonetheless an easy prey to insecurities due to his […]
• Background of Shakespeare’s “Othello” and Sophocles’s “Antigone” Even though Othello is a Moor, he fights for Venice in this war and wins, thus proving his loyalty to the Christian Venice.
• Comparison of Oedipus and Othello Cases The essay intends to look at the life of Oedipus who is the main character of the book and how the gods were responsible for his downfall after the struggle he had gone through to […]
• Exploring Diverse Perspectives on Shakespeare’s Othello: A Comprehensive Analysis He starts by briefly retelling the main events of Othello and proceeds to state that modern critics’ main concern is about the subjects of race and gender in their analyses of the play.
• Play Analysis: Shakespeare’s “Othello” and “Twelfth Night” Iago’s persona, which is portrayed as predatory and cynical, is crucial to the tragedy because it disturbs the plot. Shakespeare succeeds in making the play unsettling by utilizing a lot of epithets, metaphors, amplifications, repetitions, […]
• Shakespeare’s Othello: Hero or Villain Review However, it is still possible to view Othello as a hero but a tragic one. He is a tragic hero who suffered from his actions.
• Shakespeare’s Tragedy “Othello” Speaking of racism as a possible motivation for Iago’s behavior, it is worth noting that it is not the primary and only source of its manifestation.
• The Significance of the Handkerchief to Othello The main reason for the discord is that Othello slept with his wife and justifies all the negativity toward Iago. The handkerchief is the best proof that Desdemona has entered into an intimate relationship with […]
• “Le Morte Darthur” by Malory, Thomas and “Othello” by Shakespeare The mistrust grows, culminating in the assassinations of Emilia, Roderigo, and Desdemona, as well as Othello’s death. In truth, Iago’s evilness inspires Roderigo’s jealousy and Othello’s misgivings of his own innocent wife, Desdemona.
• Topics in the Othello Play by Shakespeare I frequently returned to the beginning of the passage or dialogue to remind myself what the topic of the conversation was.
• The Use of Dark Symbolism in “Othello” and “Paradise Lost” Thus, the use of dark imagery in Milton’s work is implemented to heighten the contrast between light and darkness, good and evil.
• Restoring Honor and Confidence in Shakespeare’s Othello The correlation of the fate of the hero with the development of society, which is the main distinguishing feature of the genre of tragedy, can take on a variety of artistic forms.
• Analysis of Acts I and II of Shakespeare’s Othello Play In lines “and what’s he then that says I play the villain,” Iago acknowledges that he seduces his victim, Cassio, by pretending to display good intent.
• Mind vs. Heart in “Othello” by William Shakespeare The main idea of the William Shakespeare’s tragedy Othello, written in 1604, is the confrontation of the mind and the heart.
• Power in Stories of Oedipus and Othello What woman in that period would not want to marry a high-ranking general and acquire the power that comes with it?
• Lago’s Hatred and Jealousy in the “Othello” by William Shakespeare Othello is a story by William Shakespeare that revolves around four characters, Othello, who is the general in the Venetian Army, Lago, who was Othello’s assistant in the same army, Desdemona, the daughter of a […]
• Shakespeare and His View on Kingship: Macbeth, King Lear and Othello At the same time, it is beyond doubt in the basement Macbeth’s character is clean and as a soldier, he is true to his job and his king.
• Shakespeare’s “Othello” and Miller’s “The Crucible” The villains in both “Othello” and “The Crucible” are unique in their proficiency in the use of language for manipulating others and their ability to use the current setting for achieving their goals; Abigail is […]
• “Othello” by William Shakespeare: Military Honor and Othello The higher a person’s rank, the more he is expected to honor the code and the harder it is for him to conceive of someone else breaking it.
• Shakespeare’s Othello: A Tragic Hero When Alexander the Great died, Aristotle fled to Chalcis, where he died the following year at the age of about 62 William Shakespeare was a strong adherent of Aristotle in his writings.
• Shakespearean Othello as a Tragic Figure Enraged and hurt, he is mistaken in his judgments about Desdemona, it is anger that he is moved by and not his sound mind. Actually, Othello’s anger is an outcome of his jealousy.
• Othello: The Shakespeare Story Analysis Using the three female characters of Desdemona, Emilia, and Bianca, Shakespeare gives us the common view of women through the eyes of Iago and the view of the nobility through the eyes of Brabantio, Desdemona’s […]
• Speciesism in Shakespeare’s Othello and Dick’s Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep In Shakespeare’s play, the motif of discrimination is explored in conjunction with Othello’s dark skin color, something that caused the “noble Moore” to be treated with suspicion by other characters throughout the play.
• The Tragedy of Othello Told in Pictures In this project, I will tell the tragedy of Othello through a collection of pictures. The project is based on “Othello: The Moor of Venice”.
• “Othello”, “A Worn Path” and “Negro” Literature Comparison Although Hughes in his “Negro” discusses race as the main source for the character’s identity and attempts to accentuate the role of the black race for the whole world history, Shakespeare in Othello and Welty […]
• “Othello” a Play by W. Shakespeare Literature Analysis Consequently, Othello seeks to distance himself with the misconstrued stereotypes of a ‘Moor.’ This essay seeks to prove that the main character’s sense of identity leads to his self-destruction.
• Compare and Contrast Shakespeare’s Othello and the Blind Owl by Sedayat On the other hand, in The Blind Owl, the storyteller, a pen-case decorator, falls in love with a naive woman who is virtuous and demonic at the same time. In The Blind Owl, it is […]
• Treatment of Women by Shakespeare and Sophocles Othello disregards the explanation that Desdemona has in regard to the accusation of being unfaithful and kills her.’She’s, like a liar, gone to burning hell, Shakespeare 28.’ After Othello killed Desdemona, he believed more in […]
• What Can Lawyers Learn From ‘Othello’? Shakespeare has employed one of the literature elements by using major characters like, Othello, a hero and the head of armies, Desdemona, Othello’s covert wife, Michael Cassio, Othello’s deputy, Lago, ranked below the lieutenant, among […]
• Humiliation of Iago (Othello) In order to identify the actual reasons for Iago’s hatred to Desdemona and Othello, the author makes use of his own approach in analyzing the play through the prism of motives, plots, themes, and character […]
• William Shakespeare’s Othello Summary | Essay Example Othello leaves Venice in the company of his wife, Iago and Cassio and Desdemona’s attendant known as Emilia. Othello’s love for Desdemona is a major weakness that leads to his downfall.
• The Driving Force of Plot in Medea by Euripides, Othello by William Shakespeare, and the Epic of Gilgamesh Reading Medea by Euripides, Othello by William Shakespeare, and The Epic of Gilgamesh it becomes obvious that the driving force of plot is heroism, however, the nature of that heroism is different that may be […]
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Othello by Shakespeare | Important Questions and Answers

Othello Questions and Answers

• Who was Othello? How did he rise to the rank of a general?

Ans. Othello was a Moor, and a dark complexioned nobleman. He was a soldier, and a valiant one. He had fought many hard battles and won many victories. Therefore, he was greatly honoured in the Venetian army. He was well-known for his courage and bravery.

Othello took part in bloody wars against the Turks, like a hero. He won the wars by his skill and talent. For those heroic performances, he had risen to the rank of the general in the Venetian service. He was highly esteemed and praised not only by the senate, but also by the people throughout the state of Venice.

• What stories did Desdemona like to hear from Othello?

ANS. Desdemona liked to hear from Othello the stories of his adventure. The stories were of the battles, sieges and encounters. He would tell Desdemona how he had overcome perils, how he entered a breach, how he escaped, how he marched up to the mouth of a cannon, how he had been captivated by the insolent enemy and sold as a slave, etc. Othello would also tell Desdemona that, in foreign countries, he had seen the vast wilderness and the romantic caverns, the quarries, the rocks, lofty mountains touching the clouds, the savage nations, etc. Othello also told Desdemona stories of the cannibals, and of the Anthropophagi in Africa whose heads grow beneath their shoulders.

• What strange things did Othello see in foreign countries? What did Desdemona wish hearing Othello’s story of life?

ANS. Othello was a great traveller. While travelling, he saw many strange things in foreign countries. He saw the vast wilderness and romantic caverns. He saw the quarries, the rocks and lofty mountains touching the clouds, the savage nations, etc. He also saw the cannibals who are man-eaters, and of the Anthropophagi in Africa whose heads grow beneath their shoulders.

Desdemona heard the story of Othello’s travel with great attention. Hearing the story, Desdemona wished that it would have been better if Othello had a friend who loved her. If Othello had a friend, he had only to teach him how to tell his story, and that would woo Desdemona.

• Describe how Desdemona fell in love with Othello.

ANS. Desdemona was the beautiful and gentle daughter of Brabantio, the rich senator of Venice. The noble lady regarded mind more than the features of man. She chose Othello, a Moor, a black as suitor. He was a soldier, a brave one. Brabantio loved him also, and often invited him to his house, Desdemona loved to hear the story of Othello’s adventures. After the story was over, Desdemona would sigh deeply and thank him, and wished that if had a friend who loved her, it would have been better. Othello had only to teach him how to tell his story. It was certainly a hint, and it proved that Desdemona fell in love with Othello.

• What did Brabantio allege against Othello?

ANS. Desdemona married Othello secretly. The news of their marriage could not be kept a secret for long. It spread everywhere. At last, that news reached old Brabantio, Desdemona’s father. Though Brabantio had a broad mind, it could not be hoped that he would accept Othello as his son-in-law. He appeared before the duke of Venice, the chief judge, as an accuser of Moor Othello. He reported that Othello had seduced the affections of the beautiful Desdemona by spells and witchcraft. Moreover, he married Desdemona without having the consent of him. So, he wanted Othello to be punished according to the laws of Venice.

• Why was Othello summoned before the Senate?

ANS. Brabantio, Desdemona’s father, accused Othello for marrying Desdemona without taking the consent of him. He accused that Othello seduced the affections of the beautiful Desdemona by spells and witchcraft. He prayed to the Duke of Venice for justice. Meanwhile, the state of Venice faced a crisis because the Turks were advancing with a fleet to regain the island of Cyprus from the Venetians. In this state of emergency, Othello was considered to be the only most competent General who could defend the Turks. So, Othello was summoned before the senate both as a candidate for noble employment, and as a culprit charged with offences by Senator Brabantio.

• When did Brabantio accept Othello as his son-in-law? What was his message of warning to Othello?

ANS. Othello married Desdemona, Brabantio’s daughter, secretly. It made Brabantio infuriated, and he lodged a complaint against Othello in the assembly of the Senators before the Duke. Othello was asked to give explanation. Othello admitted that he won Desdemona’s heart by his art of telling a sort story. Appearing in the assembly Desdemona confirmed the statement of Othello. She acknowledged that she had been dutiful to her father, and now she was more dutiful to Othello, her husband. Being unable to maintain his plea, Brabantio accepted Othello as his son in-law.

Brabantio’s message of warning to Othello was that Desdemona might deceive him one day as she had deceived her father.

• Why did Desdemona go to Cyprus with Othello? Why was the service of Othello not required in Cyprus?

ANS. As general, Othello’s service was required in the Venetian army to defend Cyprus against the invasion of the Turks. In the meantime, Othello had to face a trial in the assembly of the Duke for marrying Desdemona secretly. After winning the trial, Othello was ready to go to the war in Cyprus. Desdemona wanted to go with Othello because she refused to stay with her father anymore. She boldly declared that she had loved the Moor to live with him.

As soon as Othello and Desdemona landed in Cyprus, the news went round that the Turkish fleet had been dispersed by a violent tempest. Hence, the service of Othello was not required anymore.

• Why did Othello use Cassio in his love affair with Desdemona?

ANS. Michel Cassio was a young Florentine soldier and the best friend of Othello. He gained Othello’s confidence. He was amorous, and his pleasing nature always attracted the women. He was handsome and eloquent. Othello was a person of serious temper. Cassio’s free and rattling talk pleased Othello much. Moreover, Othello was free from any kind of jealousy as he was noble in heart. He never suspected anyone doing a base action. He feared that he lacked the amorous qualities of Cassio that would please ladies. That is why Othello considered Cassio as a fit person to be deputed to Desdemona in his love affair.

• Who was lago? Why did lago conspire to take revenge against Othello?

ANS. lago was an elder nobleman to the Venetian army. He was artful and crafty. He studied human mind deeply

lago got extremely irritated when Othello had recently promoted Cassio to the rank of lieutenant. The rank of lieutenant was a place of trust and nearest to the general. According to him, Cassio could not desire it at all because he knew little of the art of warfare; he only preferred the company of the ladies. Iago hated Cassio for that. He also began to hate Othello for favouring Cassio. Moreover, Iago had an unjust suspicion that Othello was fond of his wife, Emilia. So, he initiated conspiracy against Othello.

• What did Cassio do coming under lago’s enticement? What happened after that?

ANS. Iago enticed Cassio to have a drink. Though Cassio knew, drinking wine was a great fault for an officer on guard, yet he soon he fell into the guile of lago. He drank glass after glass.

Having over-drunk, Cassio totally lost control over him. In the meantime, lago started provoking Cassio. Provoked, Cassio praised Desdemona, and got involved in a scuffle. A worthy officer named Montano rushed to the spot to pacify the dispute, but he was wounded Having taken the advantage of the situation, lago spread the alarm causing the castle bell to be rung as if a riot had set in. Othello arrived there instantly. As he was a strict disciplinarian, he discharged Cassio from his post of lieutenant.

• What did Iago advise Cassio to regain the favour of Othello?

ANS. When Cassio got back his senses from the drunken condition, he lamented the decline of his morality. He expressed his sorrow to lago, his seeming friend. He also lamented because he had lost his reputation as well as the immortal part of himself for ever. He went on despising himself for his base action. He began to think how he could ask Othello for his place again. At that time, Lago came upon with his advice. The advice was that Cassio should ask Desdemona to persuade Othello for him. It might be expected that Desdemona would do something for him, and help him back his job.

• When did Othello promise to receive Cassio again in his favour?

ANS. According to lago’s advice, Cassio made an appeal to Desdemona to persuade Othello for doing him a favour as he had realised his fault. Desdemona promised Cassio. She presented the matter to Othello very earnestly and in a pretty manner. Though Othello was mortally offended with Cassio, he could not avoid Desdemona’s appeal. She reminded Othello how Cassio met her with Othello’s message of love, and when she had spoken in dispraise of Othello, how he had always taken his part. Moreover, the offence made by Cassio, did not deserve the punishment of discharge. Hearing such an earnest appeal, Othello promised to receive Cassio back again.

• How did lago plant the seed of suspicion in Othello mind?

ANS. Othello regarded lago as a just man, full of love and honesty. In course of events Othello and Iago entered the room where Cassio had been requesting Desdemona to plead to Othello for his Te-instatement. Having seen them approaching Cassio departed hurriedly. lago did not like Cassio’s departure in that way. He asked Othello if Cassio knew anything of his courtship with Desdemona. After having received positive answer, Iago behaved so, it seemed there was something secret in it. Othello demanded lago to speak what he knew.lago denied because it could destroy Othello’s peace of mind. But those hints created suspicion in Othello’ min

• What were the arguments shown by Iago that moved Othello much?

ANS. Othello informed lago that his fair wife loved company, and if lago wanted to mean his wife was dishonest, he must give him proof. lago begged him that he did not have any proof. But he did not believe the Italian ladies, and so asked Othello to observe Desdemona’s behaviour in presence of Cassio Iago knew that the Venetian ladies would let the world see their pranks but they dared not show their husbands. He artfully reminded Othello that Desdemona’s father thought it a witchcraft when she had married him secretly. In this way Desdemona deceived her father. Hearing those arguments, Othello was much moved.

• What did Iago remind Othello and what did he a advise Othello?

ANS. When lago saw Othello to be moved much by his argument, he begged Othello apology for having done it. He begged to conceal his evil intention. By his cleverness, he behaved in such a way as if Cassio was honest. Now he reminded Othello that probably Desdemona was feeling Sorry for neglecting suitable matches of her own clime and complexion after marrying him. That is why she was unnatural in her behaviour. Probably when her better judgement would return, she would perhaps fall in love with white complexioned young Italian. lago, therefore, advised Othello to put off his reconcilement with Cassio a little longer.

• When did Othello threaten to kill lago?

ANS. The moment lago started confusing Othello by planting the seed of suspicion in his mind, Othello never tasted peace of mind. The thought of suspicion upset Othello in all his activities. He did not find delight in arms. He seemed to have lost all the pride and ambitions which are the virtues of a soldier. Sometimes he thought Desdemona to be honest. Again he wondered Desdemona was not. At times he thought lago to be just, but at times he thought just the opposite He could neither suspect Desdemona, nor Cassio without any proof. In such a restless condition of mind, Othello threatened to kill lago if he failed to give any proof.

• What did Iago say to Othello when his honesty was challenged ? How did lago collect his evidence?

ANS. When Othello challenged the honesty of lago, lago asked him if Othello had lately seen the handkerchief with strawberry spotted in his wife Desdemona’s hand. He had seen Cassio wipe his face with it that day.

lago knew very well that the handkerchief spotted with strawberries was Othello’s first gift to Desdemona. He thought if he could manage it anyhow, it would help him to achieve his fidelity to Othello. He did it successfully by sending his wife Emilia to Desdemona. As he was shrewd, he used Emilia to steal the handkerchief from Desdemona and drop it in Cassio’s way. In this way, lago wanted to prove that Desdemona herself presented the handkerchief to Cassio.

• Why could not Desdemona give Othello the strawberry spotted handkerchief? What was magical about the handkerchief?

ANS. One day Othello pretended that he had a headache. He wanted a handkerchief from Desdemona to hold it on to his temples. She gave Othello one. But Othello demanded that strawberry spotted handkerchief which he had given her. Desdemona could not give it as it was not in her possession

Othello got the handkerchief from his mother. An Egyptian woman, who was a charmer, gave it to Othello’s mother. That charmer told Othello’s mother it would make her.

• What role did the handkerchief play in ruining Desdemona’s life?

Ans. Othello had given Desdemona a handkerchief spotted with strawberries as his first gift after their marriage. It was a magical handkerchief. An Egyptian woman gave it to Othello’s mother. That woman told Othello’s mother, that if she lost it, or give it away, his father might hate her mother as much as he had loved her. When Othello wanted that handkerchief from Desdemona to hold it on to his temples as he had a headache, Desdemona was ready to die with fear because she plainly perceived she had lost it. She feared that she had lost the love of her husband, and Othello might kill her thinking it an act of jealousy.

• Describe the murder scene of Desdemona.

ANS. When Othello charged Desdemona with unfaithfulness, she was so perplexed with wonder that a weight like sleep came over her. She went to bed, and soon fell asleep. Othello returned shortly and entered the room. Desdemona was awakened by his kisses. When she looked at Othello, she saw him gnaw his lips and roll his eyes. Othello told her to prepare for death. When asked about her fault, Othello named Cassio whom she had given the handkerchief. The innocent lady was trying to say she was guiltless, but Othello would hear no more. He covered her up in bed clothes, and strangled her to death.

• Why did Othello kill himself?

ANS. Immediately after the murder of Desdemona Cassio appeared before Othello, Wounded and bleeding. It was because Iago had set one of his men to assassinate Cassio. That man was unable to kill Cassio. On the other hand, lago killed that man to prevent discovery of truth Some letters were found in the pockets of man, which proved that lago was guilty. It was clear that Cassio was innocent. This discovery was like a thunder stroke to Othello, He came to realize that his poor innocent wife had been really faithful to him. He was now no better than a murderer. Out of extreme mental anguish Othello killed himself and tell upon the life body of his dear wife.

• What led Desdemona to marry Othello?

ANS. Desdemona was the beautiful and gentle daughter of Brabantio, the rich senator of Venice. In her own clime and complexion, she found none who could be her suitor. The noble lady regarded the mind more than the appearance and complexion of man. She chose Othello, a Moor, a black as her suitor. Othello had risen to the rank of general in the Venetian service by his skill and talent in the bloody wars against the Turks. Desdemona loved to hear the story of Othello’s adventures. She sighed deeply for the pain of Othello. Her pity and sympathy gradually turned into love for Othello, and finally she married Othello.

• How did Othello overcome the fury of Brabantio after marrying Desdemona?

ANS. Brabantio, became extremely angry to see Othello’s audacity to marry his daughter secretly. He accused Othello in outrageous manner in the assembly of the senators. Hence, Othello was called upon for his defence. He plainly narrated the story of his love. Othello said in artless eloquence that there was no trickery in it. The spells and conjurations that he had used in his courtship simply appeared to have been nothing but the honest arts of wooing. The only witchcraft that he had used, was the art of telling a soft story to win the heart of a lady. Othello’s eloquence pleased not only every senator, but also the Duke.

• Why did Othello decide to kill Desdemona and himself?

ANS. Othello had given Desdemona a magical handkerchief spotted with strawberries as his first gift after their marriage. It was a symbol of love. But one day lago reported Othello that he had seen Cassio wipe his face with that handkerchief. Hearing it, Othello pretended one day that he had headache, and wanted that handkerchief from his wife to hold it on to him temples. It was not with Desdemona. At once Othello charged her unfaithfulness, and decided to kill her. After killing Desdemona, it had been clear to Othello that Cassio was innocent, and the culprit was lago. Out of extreme mental anguish, Othello decided to kill himself.

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• AS and A-level English Literature B 7716; 7717

Aspects of tragedy - exemplar student response and commentary

Below you will find an exemplar student response to a Section B question in the specimen assessment materials, followed by an examiner commentary on the response.

Paper 1A, Section B -  Othello

Sample question.

'Othello's virtue and valour ultimately make him admirable.'

To what extent do you agree with this view?

Remember to include in your answer relevant comment on Shakespeare's dramatic methods.

Band 5 response

It is true that in Act 1 of the play, Othello's actions and behaviour, his virtue and valour can be seen as admirable. He is after all a tragic hero, and his position in the tragedy demands that he begins in a position of greatness before he suffers his tragic fall. Shakespeare establishes Othello's greatness through focusing on his military prowess and his valour at the start of the play before charting his hero's descent as he tumbles into chaos. Othello is a soldier for whom the 'big wars' make 'ambition virtue'.  By Act 3, however, there is little in him to admire: his valour belongs to a seemingly different world and there is nothing virtuous about a husband who colludes in a plot to destroy his wife.

Although Iago is used by Shakespeare at the start of the play to cast doubt on the magnificence of Othello and to test his virtue, when Othello appears he is impressive. Iago tries to persuade him to run away from the raised father whose daughter Othello has married, but Othello has full confidence in himself and the virtue of his actions. In rhythmic and controlled language he tells Iago he must be found: 'My parts, my title, and my perfect soul/ Shall manifest me rightly'. Although it could be claimed that this smacks of arrogance, Othello commands the stage and perhaps the audience's admiration. When Brabantio comes with bad intent, accusing Othello of theft and witchcraft, Othello is unperturbed; he tells his pursuers and accusers to put up their swords for the dew will rust them; they shall command more with their years than their weapons. His measured language is a sign of his confidence, self-discipline and virtue.

When Othello appears before the Duke he is equally impressive. Shakespeare uses the senators to counteract Iago's attempts to defame Othello, by having them refer to the general as 'valiant' (reminding us of his exploits in the field) and the Duke anyway has more interest to employ Othello against the general enemy Ottoman than listen to Brabantio's claims of sorcery. Even so, Othello's virtuous defence of himself and his love for Desdemona is all the more admirable (and certainly from a feminist perspective) because he asks that Desdemona be called to speak for herself. If Othello is found foul in her report, he says, the Duke should not only take away his trust and office but that sentence should fall upon his life. By twenty first century standards, Othello's affording Desdemona a voice and showing her unwavering respect, is virtuous indeed. There is also perhaps something if not admirable then at least mesmerising in his declaration of love and his story of how he wooed her:

                             She loved me for the dangers I had passed,

                             And I loved her that she did pity them.

However, when Shakespeare shifts the scene to Cyprus and the influence of the Venetian state diminishes, Iago, the tragic villain, is able to work his poison on Othello and expose his weaknesses, those aspects of his character that are far from virtuous. Othello's trust in Iago, the ancient he overlooked for lieutenant, shows a terrible lack of judgement. Iago persuades him that Cassio is unworthy and then that Desdemona is unfaithful and from the point that Iago says 'I like not that', Othello's insecurities, raging jealousy and barbaric inclinations are exposed. Having swallowed Iago's poison, Othello damns Desdemona, threatening to 'tear her all to pieces'. It is interesting here to note the dramatic contrast Shakespeare sets up between Othello and the Duke. In Act 1, in Venice, when the Duke is called upon to exercise judgement, he listens to both the accounts of Brabantio and Othello. Here in Cyprus at the outpost of civilization, Othello listens only to the lies of Iago.

There is dramatic contrast too in the different ways Othello speaks. Othello's earlier speeches which contain so much gravitas are now worn down. His love, 'the fountain from the which [his] current runs' is degraded into a 'cistern for foul toads/ to knot and gender in'. He falls under Iago's spell, pulled into the orbit of Iago's filthy linguistic energies and there is not much that is virtuous about his behaviour from now onwards and not much to admire.

His humiliation and public striking of Desemona and his cruel murder of her are all too terrible to forget in the final judgement of him. It is true that when he strikes her there are reminders of his valour and virtue in Lodovico's surprise that he could have misjudged Othello's character so greatly in thinking him good, but these reminders simply intensify the repugnance felt at Othello's actions.  It is also impossible to admire the man who strangles his wife believing that he is an honourable murderer. His pride at enacting the hand of Justice makes him detestable – at a point when he hesitiates, he blames her balmy breath for almost persuading Justice to break its sword.

His final speech, when he perhaps understands the appalling consequences of his folly, is seen by some critics as cathartic, a return of the virtuous and valiant Othello of Act 1. Interestingly, in this speech when he judges himself (and tries to shape how others might think), Othello seems to underplay the significance of his valour and contribution to the state. Though he reminds his stage audience that he has done the state some service, he quickly says 'no more of that'. However, it is clear that as the speech goes on, his assessment of himself is ultimately coloured by his pride and his highly developed sense of self worth and, although he has some dignity, there is not ultimately much honour. His concern at the end is for his public image and, as he has done from the start, he uses language to construct an artifice of his own identity.  He speaks of himself as if he were legendary or part of a defined myth. The use of the definite article is instrumental in achieving this effect – 'the base Indian', 'the Arabian trees'; only fragments of detail are supplied here but he conveys the idea that these images are huge and famous. His final speech is calm and controlled, but it reaches a crescendo of dramatic impact when he does the most dramatic thing he can do, transferring his construction of his identity of himself into the here and now, and suddenly and climactically ends his life. This is the self dramatizing that Leavis so condemns.

So, while it is true that from the moment Othello first appears he is attractive, by ever increasing degrees as the plot develops, he becomes repellent. As we stand back to make our final judgement on whether his valour and virtue ultimately make him admirable, it is surely not possible to overlook his despicable behaviour. What perhaps should be done in the final evaluation is to reconsider the nature of his virtue and valour at the start of the play and question whether it was always founded on sand. From his words early on 'I fetch my life and bearing/ from men of royal siege' to his final words of the play, 'to die upon a kiss' his sense of his own significance is overwhelming.  Othello is certainly not 'ultimately' admirable and the question must be asked, is he ever?  

It is also important to note that even when he is most glorious – and apparently admirable, there are many who cannot countenance his 'pride, pomp and circumstance'.

Examiner commentary

This is a very confident and accomplished response, and although the ideas are a bit overpacked at times and the argument a little overdone, the candidate writes in an assured way.

The response is well structured and the task is always in the candidate's mind. The candidate argues perceptively with a strong and assured personal voice. There is a confident use of literary critical concepts and terminology and the written expression is very secure. Quotation is neatly woven into the argument.

There is perceptive understanding that Shakespeare has constructed this drama to shape meanings. Comment here is often implicit, but there is valid discussion of the structure of the play in relation to the task and on language choices.

Contextual understanding is clear with a sharp focus on military and gender contexts. These are well linked to the tragic genre.

As the candidate fully engages with the task and valour and virtue, there is perceptive exploration of the tragic genre thereby implicitly establishing connections across literary texts.

There is perceptive and confident engagement with the debate here and the candidate clearly knows the text well and selects appropriate material for the argument. The candidate is really thinking about the task and offers some complexity in the answer, well aware of the ambiguities that the play and task set up.

This response seems consistent with the band 5 descriptors.

This resource is part of the Aspects of tragedy resource package .

Document URL https://www.aqa.org.uk/resources/english/as-and-a-level/english-literature-b/teach/tragedy-b-exemplar-student-response-commentary-band-5

Last updated 16 Dec 2022

Sample details

• William Shakespeare,
• William Shakespeare
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• Twelfth Night

Othello Questions and Answers

Act I Scene iWhy is Roderigo annoyed with Iago?In love with Desdemona, Roderigo is angry that his supposed friend, Iago, didn’t do anything about the elopement of Desdemona and Othello. Roderigo has been paying Iago to help him in his suit to Desdemona, but he has seen no progress, and he has just learned that Desdemona has married Othello.

What reason does Iago give for hating the Moor?Iago’s reason for hating the Moor is Othello’s recent promotion of Michael Cassio as lieutenant. In spite of Iago’s service in battle especially in three “great ones” of the city, Othello chose to give the position to a man with no experience.Why does he continue in Othello’s service?As he waits for an opportunity to further his own self-interest, Iago only pretends to serve Othello.Comment on Roderigo’s response to this explanationRoderigo replies with disrespect, “What a full fortune does the thick-lips owe”, he is physically characterizing the Moore (Othello) as being black.

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Why does Iago urge Roderigo to harass Desdemona’s father?Iago advises Roderigo to spoil some of Othello’s pleasure in his marriage by rousing Desdemona’s family against the general. Iago plans to bring about Othello’s downfall, and Roderigo will have Desdemona. They decide to wake Brabantio and cause an outcry.Why does the ensuing incident affect the relationship between Roderigo and BrabantioAt first, Brabantio doesn’t believe what he hears, because he has told Roderigo to stay away from his daughter before and thinks Roderigo is merely scheming once again in order to see Desdemona.

What impression of Othello do we gain from the comments made by these three acquaintances?They speak with derogatory terms about Othello, “lascivious”. Othello is immediately introduced as a “beast” that has done more bad than good (negative characterisation)Act 1 Scene iiWho is the subject of Iago’s comments to Othello?Brabantio – Iago pretends to warn Othello that he will attempt to break up the marriageWhy does the Duke of Venice seek Othello so late at night?The Duke seeks Othello as war is imminent and the Senate urgently needs Othello. Othello is known for his service to Venice and his noble descent.What is the basis of Brabantio’s complaint against Othello?Brabantio threatens Othello with accusations of using witchcraft to enchant Desdemona into loving him.

He believes that Othello has used black magic and drugs and should be arrested and charged.How does Othello respond to Brabantio’s demands?Othello responds calmly, standing his ground. He authoritatively tells both sides to put up their swordsHow do the observations on Othello compare with our own observations in this scene We initially view Othello negatively for what he has been accused of doing, however in this scene we are shown his true calm nature of goodwill and his characterisation changes.Act 1 Scene iiiWhat decision does the Council make concerning the intentions of the Turks?The duke has a meeting with his senators about Turkish invasion of Cyprus but is disrupted with the announcement that the Turks seem to have turned toward Rhodes, another island controlled by Venice.

One of the senators guesses that the Turks’ change of course is intended to mislead the Venetians, because Cyprus is more important to the Turks and far more vulnerable than Rhodes.What assurance of support does the Duke offer Brabantio?Brabantio reassures Brabantio that whoever tricked his daughter and stole her from him will pay for it, and allows him to determine the sentence and impose the death penalty if he chooses to.Note how Brabantio continues his basic complaint about OthelloBrabantio rudely interrupts Othello when the Duke asks him to explain himself, showing Brabantio’s self-centered nature. He believes that his daughter would never make the mistake of falling in love with Othello and is thus determined Othello has been using drugs and magic on her.

Summarise Othello’s explanation of his and Desdemona’s love for each otherOthello explains that he often talks to Desdemona’s father (Brabantio) about stories of the wars and battles he had fought in, and when he does so, Desdemona used to listen attentively. If she had to go do some household chore, he noticed that she’d always come back quickly to hear more of his stories, and later ask him to complete it.How does Desdemona in turn explain her love for Othello?Desdemona expresses her love for Othello in the transfer of loyalty from her father to Othello. She confirms Othello’s reasons for falling in love with when she says that she gave her whole life to him because of his honor and bravery.

How does Desdemona in turn explain her present situation regarding these two men, Othello and Brabantio?Brabantio asks her to tell those present to whom she owes the most obedience. Brabantio clearly expects her to say her father. Desdemona, however, confirms that she married Othello of her own free will and that, like her own mother before her, she must shift her primary loyalty from father to husband.What problem does Othello’s new command raise and how is it resolved?It is decided that Othello must go to Cyprus to defend the island from the Turks.

Othello is willing and ready to go, and he asks that appropriate accommodations be provided for his wife. The duke suggests that she stay with her father, but the others are not willing accept this, and Desdemona asks to be allowed to go with Othello. However Iago is appointed to care for Desdemona.What evidence is there of Iago’s manipulation of Roderigo? What remarks by Iago’s manipulation of RoderigoRoderigo is devastated, however Iago persuades him that Desdemona and Othello will soon tire of one another.

Iago repeatedly says to Roderigo, “Put but money in thy purse”. Iago urges Roderigo to go to Cyprus with Othello and he will resolve his problems.

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