Othello (Shakespeare) Flashcards
What is the setting of Act 1, Scene 1 of ‘Othello’?
The setting is Venice, at night.
Who are the first two characters introduced in Act 1, Scene 1?
Roderigo and Iago.
True or False: Iago is loyal to Othello.
False.
What motivates Roderigo’s anger towards Othello?
Roderigo is in love with Desdemona, who has married Othello.
Fill in the blank: Iago refers to Othello as ‘the Moor’ throughout the play. This term emphasizes _____ and _____ aspects of Othello’s identity.
racial, cultural.
Who does Iago inform about Desdemona’s marriage to Othello?
Brabantio, Desdemona’s father.
What is Iago’s opinion of Othello’s marriage to Desdemona?
He disapproves and sees it as unnatural.
What strategy does Iago use to manipulate Roderigo?
Iago plays on Roderigo’s feelings for Desdemona and uses him to further his own plans.
True or False: Brabantio is initially supportive of Desdemona’s marriage to Othello.
False.
What does Brabantio accuse Othello of when he learns of the marriage?
He accuses Othello of using witchcraft to win Desdemona’s love.
What is the significance of the phrase ‘I am not what I am’ in Act 1, Scene 1?
It reflects Iago’s duplicity and his hidden motives.
How does Iago describe his feelings towards Othello?
He claims to hate Othello but pretends to be his loyal ensign.
What is the main conflict introduced in Act 1, Scene 1?
The conflict revolves around Roderigo’s love for Desdemona and Iago’s resentment towards Othello.
Who is the Duke, and what role does he play in Act 1, Scene 2?
The Duke is a high-ranking official in Venice who will later address the conflict regarding Othello’s marriage.
What is Iago’s plan to take revenge on Othello?
Iago plans to exploit Othello’s insecurities and manipulate those around him.
What does Othello say when he is confronted by Brabantio?
Othello defends his marriage to Desdemona, asserting it was based on love and mutual consent.
True or False: Othello is portrayed as a weak character in the first two scenes.
False.
What is Brabantio’s reaction upon seeing Desdemona and Othello together?
He is furious and feels betrayed.
What does Iago mean by saying ‘I have looked upon the world for four times seven years’?
It suggests his experience and cynicism about human nature.
What does the term ‘Moor’ signify in the context of Othello?
It refers to Othello’s North African heritage.
