Act 1 Sc 1 Flashcards
“Your daughter…thieves”
-Suggests woman as property –> patriarchal context - male characters appear to view women as their possessions.
Significance of Desdemona’s choice of marriage being referred to as a ‘revolt’
He does believe that she would willingly marry Othello –> suggests that Desdemona is a passive victim and portrays Othello as a cunning sexual predator -> stereotypes.
Significance of Iago dominating the speech
The audience is given a lot of insight into Iago’s thoughts, perhaps this makes us collude with his evil- he interests us as well as disgusts us.
Significance of Iago saying: ‘Poison his delight’ ‘Plague him with flies’ in what he plans to do to Brabantio?
Iago’s use of metaphors associates him with corruption and poison throughout he play- this is suggested at the beginning and becomes evident throughout as his plan unfolds.
Significance of location in A1 Sc 1
It is night time- concealed in the darkness- confusion and disruption.
There are also two different levels- Brabantio higher up- reflecting social status which proves to be of great importance in Othello.
Does Iago’s initial descriptions of Othello make us inclined to be prejudiced against him?
Arguably, but it also means there is a big contrast between his initial depiction by Iago and how he actually presents himself- as noble and respectful.
What does the audience realise about Iago from this scene?
He is persuasive and self confident- he appears to get exactly what he wants out of this situation, which possibly warns us for future events. He knows exactly how to manipulate situations.
What themes are established in this scene?
- social disruption
- class and power
- black and white, discrimination
- delusion and knowledge
- male and female secuality
How does this scene set up for the rest of the play?
As well as setting up a number of key themes, it makes it evident that Desdemona and Othello’s relationship may be problematic and will be the focal point for future disruption.
