Act 4 Scene 2 Flashcards
Summarise what happens in this scene. (A4.2)
Othello questions Emilia, but refuses to believe her. He confronts Desdemona. Desdemona turns to Iago for reassurance, and Roderigo reproaches Iago for unfair dealing; Iago reassures both.
What does water symbolise?
Symbolises purity and innocence, but is also connected to trade and therefore is a symbol of affluence and cosmopolitan culture. The free-flowing water at the start of the play has now become a foul trickle, showing how Othello and Desdemona’s love has been corrupted. Othello’s attitude to love had been debased and he is obsessed with obscene physicality.
Complete the quotation: “I durst, my lord…” (Who says this and why is it significant?)
“to wager she is honest” - Emilia - reveal Iago’s manipulative nature.
Complete the quotation: “My lord, what…” (Who says this and why is it significant?)
“is your will?” - Desdemona - her submissive nature, wants to please Othello.
Complete the quotation: “the cunning…” (Who says this and why is it significant?)
“whore of Venice.” - Othello - transformation to jealous and rage.
Complete the quotation: “the fountain from which…” (Who says this and why is it significant?)
“my current runs / Or else dries up … / Or keep it as a cistern for foul toads / To knot and gender in.” - Othello - internal struggle with his relationship,
Define callous.
Unfeeling
Define contemptuous.
disgusted, scathing, dismissive