Othello quotes

Question 1

‘She loved me for the dangers I had passed,
And I loved her that she did pity them. ‘(1.3.)

Answer 1

Othello speaks these lines while explaining how Desdemona came to fall in love with him. While the other Venetians are shocked that Desdemona could love a man from a different race and background, Othello’s explanation shows that he and Desdemona fell in love out of mutual admiration and respect. The quote also reveals that Othello is a charismatic and impressively articulate individual, who can charm someone with the power of his words.

Question 2

‘I know, Iago
Thy honesty and love doth mince this matter.’ (2.3.)

Answer 2

Othello speaks this quote to Iago after Iago has explained to him about Cassio’s involvement in a drunken brawl. Ironically, Othello assumes that Iago is being tactful and trying not to blame Cassio for what happened, whereas Iago has actually engineered the entire situation in order to get Cassio in trouble. The quote reveals Othello’s blind spot where Iago is concerned, and sets the stage for how Othello’s belief in Iago’s integrity and honesty will lead to disaster.

Question 3

‘o my soul’s joy’ (2.1)

Answer 3

Whilst Shakespeare has emphasised Iago’s debased attitude to sexual relationships by using animalistic diction in Act 1, here there is only a glimmer of a physical connection between the lovers and the marriage seems to be one in which the emotional and psychological connection are foregrounded. The exclamation “O” highlights the depth and honesty of Othello’s feelings, and hints at his lack of self-understanding. Whilst Othello is presented as believing in the profundity of his love for Desdemona, the audience are aware that the relationship is built on precarious foundations and that the emotions Othello experiences are more akin to infatuation than lifelong love.

Question 4

‘I prithee speak to me as to thy thinkings.’ (3.3.)

Answer 4

Othello says this to Iago after starting to become suspicious about what might be happening between Desdemona and Cassio. A master manipulator, Iago plants a seed of suspicion, but then seemingly hesitates to make any distinct accusations. As a result, Othello actually has to beg Iago to reveal the very suspicions that Iago is eager to pass along. The quote also shows that once Othello has begun to think about the possibility of his wife being unfaithful, he is unable to leave the idea alone.

Question 5

‘No, Iago, I’ll see before I doubt.’ (3.3.)

Answer 5

Here, Othello asserts his faith in Desdemona and his refusal to be suspicious of her without due cause. The quote shows that Othello does love his wife and does not want to think ill of her. However, Othello’s faith in Desdemona also opens the door for Iago to give Othello seeming “proof” of Desdemona’s infidelity. Because Othello is resistant to believing in Desdemona’s guilt, Iago has more fuel to persuade him.