Act 2 Scene 3 Flashcards
Summarise what happens in this scene. (A2.3)
Iago makes Cassio drunk, and he fights. Othello fires Cassio. Cassio is distraught. Iago suggests that Desdemona could plead with Othello to have him reinstated. Iago outlines his plan.
What does the drunken brawl symbolise?
The shift from political and social order to chaos, just as the natural world has already had a moment of chaos in the storm at the start of Act 2.
What does the shift from blank verse to prose symbolise?
Signals increasing disorder. Previously, we have heard Iago speaking in prose and so it is associated with his malevolence and destructive impulses. Later, Othello will also begin to speak in this way.
Complete the quotation: “My blood begins…”
!my safer guides to rule / And passion…Assays to lead the way.”
Complete the quotation: “All’s well…”
“now, sweeting.”
Complete the quotation: “Reputation…”
“reputation, reputation!…I have lost the immortal part of myself, and what remains is bestial.”
Complete the quotation: “Divinity…”
“of hell.”
Complete the quotation: “I’ll pour…”
“this pestilence into his ear.”
Complete the quotation: “the net…”
that shall enmesh them all.”
Define debauched.
drunk, hedonistic.
Define opportunistic.
Taking opportunities.
Define base instinct.
Acting on immoral desires.
Define stage manager.
Iago seizes control.
Define voice of order.
Othello restores control.
Define dishonoured.
Made to appear immoral.
