Othello - JEALOUSY

Question 1

Jealousy- examples

• definition
• examples

Answer 1

Jealousy can mean being resentful of somebody’s achievements, possessions, or advantages
* Iago is jealous of Othello’s military success and Cassio’s promotion
* Roderigo is jealous of Othello’s relationship with Desdemona
* Othello becomes jealous when he believes that Desdemona is having an affair with Cassio
* Bianca becomes jealous when she believes that Cassio has a new lover
Shakespeare shows how jealousy’s malign influence can ultimately consume love, friendship, nobility and honour.

Question 2

Iago’s Jealousy

Answer 2

Iago’s jealousy is initially based on a professional slight
* In Act 1, Scene 1 he complains that Cassio has been promoted instead of him even though he is “worth no worse a place”
Iago also thinks Emilia has been unfaithful to him with Othello
* He claims that it is “thought abroad that ’twixt my sheets / He has done my office”, although the audience never find out if this is true or not

Question 3

Othello’s Jealousy

Answer 3

Othello’s change in character and attitude show how corrupt someone can become if jealous:
In Act 1 Othello dismisses Brabantio’s warning that Desdemona may deceive her husband, replying “My life upon her faith”