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Summary of Othello's Tragic Acts
Mar 28, 2025
Summary of Act 1-5 of Othello
Act 1: The Seeds of Evil
Introduction of Conflict
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Iago's hatred for Othello is established due to Othello's decision to promote Cassio over him.
Iago seeks revenge.
Iago and Roderigo
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They inform Brabantio of Othello's relationship with his daughter, Desdemona.
Brabantio confronts Othello, who explains that his war stories won Desdemona's heart.
Duke's Praise
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The Duke supports Othello and sends him to Cyprus to face the Turkish fleet.
Act 2: Space for Evil to Grow
Destruction of the Turkish Fleet
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A storm destroys the Turkish fleet, benefiting Venice but giving Iago more time to plot against Othello.
Iago's Manipulation
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Iago tells Roderigo that Desdemona loves Cassio, urging him to eliminate Cassio.
Iago gets Cassio drunk, leading to a fight that results in Cassio's dismissal.
Act 3: Evil Grows
Cassio and Desdemona's Friendship
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Desdemona vows to help Cassio regain his position.
Othello's Jealousy
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Iago sows seeds of doubt in Othello about Desdemona's fidelity, claiming she is attracted to Cassio.
Desdemona drops a handkerchief, a gift from Othello, which Iago uses to deceive him further.
Act 4: Othello Loses Control
Othello's Fury
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Iago paints a false narrative of Cassio and Desdemona, causing Othello to fall into a trance of rage.
Iago manipulates Othello into observing Cassio discussing Bianca, which Othello misinterprets as Cassio wooing Desdemona.
Othello interrogates Emilia about Desdemona’s purity, but he does not believe her.
Dramatic Irony
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Othello calls for Desdemona, who senses something is wrong.
Act 5: Blood, Death, and Guilt
Roderigo's Attack on Cassio
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Iago incites Roderigo to attack Cassio, leading to Cassio being wounded.
Iago kills Roderigo to cover his tracks.
Othello's Tragic Mistake
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Othello confronts Desdemona, accusing her of infidelity.
When she denies it, he smothers her, believing her guilt is confirmed.
Aftermath
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Othello is arrested but commits suicide.
Iago is arrested but remains alive, as all those who trusted or loved him are dead.
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