Complete Guide to Shakespeare: Othello

Introduction

• Lecturer: Dr. Aiden Elliot
• Overview: Focus on main causal events and character traits of Iago and Othello.
• Not a comprehensive summary, but highlights of significant events and character motivations.

Opening Events

• Background:
  • Othello marries Desdemona.
  • Appoints Michael Cassio as second in command.
• Consequences:
  • Roderigo is angry due to his failed pursuit of Desdemona.
  • Iago is angry for being overlooked for the promotion.
  • Desdemona's father, Brabanchio, is upset as Othello didn't seek his permission, accusing him of using witchcraft.

Key Characters

• Roderigo:
  • Not a real threat to Othello; manipulated by Iago.
• Brabanchio:
  • More serious threat; accuses Othello of witchcraft but is placated by Venice's need for Othello.
• Iago:
  • Trusted by Othello and known as "honest Iago."
  • Sets new goals at the end of Act 1:
    • Remove Cassio from his position.
    • Make Othello believe Cassio and Desdemona are having an affair.

Iago's Manipulation and Achievements

• Act 2 (Cyprus):
  • Cassio's weaknesses: inability to handle alcohol, quick temper.
  • Iago gets Cassio drunk, leading to a fight and Cassio's dismissal.
• Act 3:
  • Goal: Make Othello jealous by suggesting an affair between Cassio and Desdemona.
  • Iago manipulates situations, including Cassio's request for Desdemona's help.
  • Uses handkerchief (symbol of fidelity) as a tool of deception.

The Midpoint and Iago's Lies

• Midpoint (Act 3, Scene 3):
  • Iago lies about Cassio's actions and the handkerchief.
  • Othello demands "ocular" proof.
• Act 4:
  • Iago orchestrates a scenario for Othello to misinterpret Cassio's laughter and interaction with Bianca.
  • Othello resolves to kill Desdemona.

Climax and Resolution (Act 5)

• Rising Actions:
  • Roderigo fails to kill Cassio, is killed himself.
  • Iago stabs Cassio.
• Tragic Conclusion:
  • Othello kills Desdemona.
  • Emilia reveals Iago's manipulations.
  • Othello wounds Iago and kills himself.

Themes and Questions

• Motives of Iago:
  • Motiveless malignity or jealousy?
• Tragic Flaws:
  • Othello's gullibility and tendency to trust appearances.

Conclusion

• Encouragement to reflect on the motivations and actions of Iago and Othello.
• Suggestion to enjoy and further explore the complex themes of Shakespeare's "Othello."