Act 3 Scene 3

Question 1

What happens in Act 3, scene 3?

Answer 1

Iago persuades Othello that Desdemona is unfaithful.

• Desdemona kindly agrees to talk to Othello on Cassio’s behalf.
• Iago starts to persuade Othello that Desdemona is unfaithful.
• Emilia takes the handkerchief and gives it to Iago.
• Iago’s stories convince Othello of the affair.

Question 2

How is this scene a turning point?

Answer 2

This scene is a turning point for Othello as Iago persuades him to give in completely to jealously.

Question 3

What methods do they use?

Answer 3

In this scene, Shakespeare creates a contrast between the honest and selfless Desdemona, and the dishonest and self-serving Iago. In comparison with Iago, Desdemona’s persuasion of Othello is sincere and simple.

Question 4

How is honesty a major theme in this scene?

Answer 4

A key reason for Iago’s sucess is that he is perceieved as a man of exceeding honesty.