Act 4 scene 1

Question 1

What’s the plot in this scene?

Answer 1

Iago tells Othello Cassio said he slept with Desdemona.
Iago talks to Cassio about Bianca but Othello believes they are discussing Desdemona.
Bianca throws the handkerchief at Cassio.
Othello hits Desdemona.

Question 2

What does Iago say about Roderigo and Desdemona?

Answer 2

‘Lie with her, Lie on her.’

Question 3

‘Lie with her, Lie on her.’ Technique

Answer 3

Repetition

Question 4

‘Lie with her, Lie on her.’ Meaning

Answer 4

Iago lacerates Othello with sexual and derogative language to manipulate him.

Question 5

What does Iago say about manipulating Othello to the audience?

Answer 5

‘Work on, my medicine work’

Question 6

‘Work on my medicine work.’ Technique

Answer 6

Metaphor

Question 7

‘Work on my medicine work.’ Analysis

Answer 7

Medicine used as a metaphor for Iago’s manipulation.

Question 8

‘Work on my medicine work.’ Why is it ironic?

Answer 8

Because his manipulation infects Othello rather than healing him.

Question 9

‘I will chop her into messes.’ Technique

Answer 9

Violent imagery

Question 10

‘I will chop her into messes.’ Analysis

Answer 10

Iago’s manipulation has distorted Othello’s mind and he reverts to violence.

Question 11

What comedic element is used in this scene?

Answer 11

Eavesdropping

Question 12

Where else does eavesdropping occur?

Answer 12

Twelve night