Othello

Question 1

First impressions

Answer 1

Led to believe by Iago that Othello is conceited
Appearance in act one scene one contradict this
Shakespeare stresses his nobility
“ valiant Othello” - respected, view him as a hero

Question 2

Othello and opposition

Answer 2

Contradictions in the play embodied in the tragic hero
Black man in a white world

Question 3

Othellos race

Answer 3

Significant part of his characterisation
Shakespeare encourages audience to view it as positive
Not an issue for him - “she has eyes and chose me”
Has Iago’s prejudice affected the noble hero?
Result of being “perplexed in the extreme” by Iago whose discrimination in part of his evil

Question 4

Othello’s transformation

Answer 4

Why trust Iago more than desdemona
Conception of himself has been challenged – reminded he is an outsider
Recognise that he has been ensnared

Question 5

Othellos love

Answer 5

At the beginning, him and Desdemona have been able to speak clearly about their love
Gradually overcome by dark emotions
Cannot master his powerful romantic/erotic feelings
Soldier qualities contributed to his downfall
Continues to have second thoughts until the end
Iagos influence is significant as a fellow begins to speak and think like ensign when his imagination is polluted

Question 6

Othellos love

Answer 6

At the beginning, him and Desdemona have been able to speak clearly about their love
Gradually overcome by dark emotions
Cannot master his powerful romantic/erotic feelings
Soldier qualities contributed to his downfall
Continues to have second thoughts until the end
Iagos influence is significant as a fellow begins to speak and think like ensign when his imagination is polluted

Question 7

“Honourable murder “

Answer 7

Believes he saving other men’s honour
Shakespeare reminds us that the hero was a worthy man before he was ensnared by Iago to create pathos
Changing speech style, perhaps indicating moral corruption

Question 8

“No Iago I’ll see before doubt”

Answer 8

Asserting faith in Desdemona, scene leads to his downfall

Question 9

“Even so my bloody thoughts with violent pace “

Answer 9

Convinced Desdemona has betrayed him

Question 10

“One that loved wisely but too well “

Answer 10

Realisation that he has been betrayed and deceived