Quotes for Cassio Flashcards
Respecting Othello…
“Entirely honour”(Act 3 scene 4)
“I will rather sue to be despised than to deceive so good a commander with so light so drunken and so indiscreet and officer” (Act 2 scene 3)
Dishonest knave…(leading on Bianca)
“Sweet love”-to her face
“Customer” who “hunts [him]in every place”
Duplicitous nature and his misogynistic views are present here taking advantage of Bianca for his gain clearly not actually valuing her.
Cowardness…
“I pray you pardon me i cannot speak”(Act 2 scene 3)-in reference to when Othello confronts him about his drunken brawl”
“i am very ill at ease”-declining Desdemonas invite to talk to Othello with her
“My general will forget my love and service”-Pressuring Desdemona and is demanding and impatient.
Not who he wants people to believe he is…
“I have lost the immortal part of myself and what remains is bestial(Act 2 scene 3)-moment his role of lieutenant is taken away he is a nobody
Disrespecting Bianca…
-Flirts with a lot of Women, a ‘ladies man’ flirting with women and generally charming them and this comes down to his ‘breeding’ as he claims.
-However he hides his relationship with Bianca because he doesn’t want Othello his “general” to “see him womaned”
-Demonstrates double standard surrounding romance and Women. Cassio hides Bianca while exploiting and using her and women at the time of lower class or prostitutes were held to this standard.
-Shows Bianca has no autonomy or freedom to rome, she waits around for Cassio a man who does not respect her and is regarded as an object
-Alternatively, Cassio may feel the need to uphold societal standards surrounding love and romance and because of his high status he doesnt want to be associated with something emasculating
Who is Cassio in ‘Othello’?
A well-educated man from Florence, Othello’s second in command, and lieutenant
Cassio is characterized by charm, charisma, and good looks, viewing himself as a ladies’ man.
What is Cassio’s relationship with Othello?
He is Othello’s lieutenant and a loyal follower
Cassio’s confidence stems from his position, but he remains devoted to Othello.
What motivates Iago’s resentment towards Cassio?
Iago believes he should have been promoted instead of Cassio
Iago resents Cassio’s charm and respectable persona.
How does Iago manipulate Cassio?
He gets Cassio fired by involving him in a drunken brawl
Iago also implies Cassio has slept with Desdemona, further damaging Cassio’s reputation.
What does Cassio do when he is in trouble?
He asks Desdemona to plead his case
This decision ultimately strengthens Iago’s position against him.
Who is Bianca in relation to Cassio?
A courtesan from Cyprus who loves Cassio
Cassio does not reciprocate her feelings and mocks her behind her back.
What is the outcome for Cassio by the end of the play?
He is put in charge of Cyprus
Despite the chaos, Cassio’s position improves.
How does Cassio serve as a foil for Othello and Iago?
He embodies qualities that Othello and Iago envy, such as being white, upper class, and well spoken
Cassio symbolizes the authority of rich, white men and the anxieties of outsiders.
What themes does Shakespeare explore through Cassio’s character?
Themes of facade, honor, bravery, and manipulation
Cassio’s reliance on Desdemona highlights his flaws and the consequences of Iago’s lies.
True or False: Minor characters in a play often serve to convey key themes.
True
They can distill important messages and should not be ignored in exams.
Fill in the blank: Cassio’s character is a catalyst for _______ behavior.
[Iago’s]
Fill in the blank: Cassio symbolizes the authority of rich, _______ men in society.
[white]
What is one reason why Cassio is distraught during the play?
He is accused of having an affair with Desdemona
This accusation is part of Iago’s manipulation.
What strategy does Cassio use to persuade Othello to welcome him back?
He emphasises his past service in the army and relies on his previous contributions and successes.
How does Cassio’s approach to atoning for his mistakes differ from what might be expected?
He opts for inaction instead of trying to make amends.
What does Cassio’s intimidation by Othello reveal about their relationship?
It shows that their bond is dictated by social codes and power plays, rather than simple friendship.
What does Cassio represent to Iago?
Cassio represents elitism, favouritism, and success with women.
How does Iago plan to use Cassio’s characteristics against him?
Iago takes advantage of Cassio’s charismatic persona to convince Othello that Desdemona has been unfaithful.
What misconception does Cassio have about Iago?
Cassio believes Iago is an honest man and is clueless about Iago’s true motives.
What social dynamic exists between Cassio and Iago?
Cassio looks down on Iago for having a lower social status, which motivates Iago’s desire for revenge.
What feelings does Cassio have towards Desdemona?
He admires her beauty and respects her as a reputable member of the upper classes.
What ambiguity exists regarding Cassio’s feelings for Desdemona?
It is unclear if he loves her, although Iago seems to think he does.
How does Cassio interact with Desdemona?
He is typically chivalrous and honourable, displaying courtly manners.
What significant action does Cassio take regarding Desdemona?
He asks her to speak to Othello on his behalf, which reduces her to her relation to men.
What does Cassio’s request from Desdemona disrupt?
It disrupts the divide between military and civil matters, affecting their personal lives.
How is Cassio’s relationship with Bianca characterized?
It is built on dishonesty and disrespect.
What is the power dynamic in Cassio’s relationship with Bianca?
There is a power imbalance due to class, gender, and unreciprocated feelings.
What does Cassio and Iago’s description of Bianca suggest?
They portray her as obsessed with Cassio, which may reflect misogynistic hyperbole.
Fill in the blank: The savage exists in a state of nature that is neither _______ nor _______.
[good] [bad]
True or False: Cassio’s admiration for Desdemona is straightforward and free from ambiguity.
False
Who is described as lurking at the heart of civilization in times of sociocultural stress?
The Wild Man
What type of character is Cassio described as?
Cassio is described as a typical hero: charming, charismatic, successful, and respected.
Cassio’s positive attributes fuel lago’s envy and hatred.
What motivates lago’s vendetta against Cassio?
Lago’s vendetta is motivated by Cassio’s promotion to lieutenant and his high breeding.
Lago envies Cassio’s success and social status.
How does Cassio’s character serve as a vessel for social tensions?
Cassio’s character is used to explore themes surrounding gender and class, reflecting how others perceive him and the meanings they project onto him.
Lago sees Cassio as a symbol of hierarchical Venetian culture.
What role does Cassio play among the main characters?
Cassio is the only main character who fits into the upper social class, representing traditional white male dominance.
Epitome of masculinity
His character contrasts with lago’s lower status and treatment by others.
How is Cassio’s status ultimately undermined?
Cassio is demoted by Othello and revealed to be a coward, questioning the legitimacy of white male hegemony.
This exposes the upper classes as fraudulent.
What does Cassio represent in contrast to Othello?
Cassio represents youth, charm, and gallantry, while Othello embodies wisdom, experience, and backbone.
This contrast highlights different aspects of masculinity.
How does Shakespeare use Cassio to reinforce patriarchal culture?
Cassio’s character, along with other male characters, contributes to the pervasive misogyny in the play, creating a claustrophobic atmosphere for women.
This perspective is echoed by multiple characters, increasing its impact.
What is Cassio’s attitude towards women?
Cassio considers himself a ‘ladies man’ and flirts with women, yet hides his relationship with Bianca from Othello.
This behavior reflects a double standard in his views on masculinity.
Fill in the blank: Cassio’s relationship with Bianca allows Shakespeare to display Cassio’s more _______ characteristics.
unlikeable
This includes his dismissive cruelty and duplicitous nature.
What is the perception of women in relation to men as depicted in the text?
Women are seen as both entertainment and an embarrassment.
What character is ashamed of knowing Bianca, a courtesan?
Cassio
How are lower class women, particularly prostitutes, portrayed in the text?
They are hidden from the public sphere and exploited by men.
What does the term ‘womaned’ imply in the context of relationships?
It implies being subjected to the burdens of women, aligning with stereotypes of neediness.
Why might Cassio’s secrecy about his relationship reflect societal attitudes?
As a high-ranking officer, he may not want to be associated with something emasculating like love.
What role does gossip play in the audience’s perception of Cassio’s relationships?
The audience indulges in gossip and wonders about Cassio’s feelings towards Desdemona.
How does Cassio refer to Desdemona compared to Bianca?
He views Desdemona with awe and reverence, while he mocks and patronizes Bianca.
What does Cassio’s view of Desdemona and Bianca suggest about men’s judgment of women?
Men judge women by their social standing.
What does Cassio’s dismissal of marrying Bianca emphasize?
The exploitation of women, particularly sex workers.
How does Cassio describe Desdemona’s role in relation to male authority?
He refers to her as ‘the captain’s captain’, suggesting she needs male guardianship.
What does Cassio’s description of Desdemona as ‘the riches of the ship’ imply?
It objectifies her as a material good in a capitalist society.
What conclusion does Shakespeare draw about misogyny across social classes?
Misogyny doesn’t dissipate with higher class; it changes form.
How does Cassio use Desdemona in Othello?
Cassio uses Desdemona for political favors to regain Othello’s favor and be reinstated as lieutenant
This reflects a broader theme of men asking women to sacrifice themselves for male ambitions.
What does Desdemona’s welcome to Cassio suggest?
It suggests her willingness to help, but Cassio declines to stay, indicating a lack of genuine interest
This reflects Cassio’s secretive nature and his exploitation of women.
What role does reputation play in Venetian life within Othello?
Reputation dictates power, social connections, and status, often more than personal character or achievements
It creates a self-fulfilling prophecy where one’s perception influences their social standing.
How does Cassio’s character relate to reputation?
Cassio is fixated on his reputation and feels devastated when he loses his lieutenancy due to public shame
His introduction through the lens of reputation highlights his concern for public perception.
What happens to Cassio’s character at the end of Act 2?
He is publicly demoted by Othello, leading to a crisis of identity and loss of power
This marks a turning point from arrogance to vulnerability.
What does Cassio express about his reputation?
He states, ‘Reputation, reputation, reputation! O, I have lost my reputation!’
This indicates that he values his reputation as an integral part of his identity.
Fill in the blank: Cassio’s greatest wound is described as an _______.
incorporeal one
True or False: The military was considered a domain for women in Othello.
False
What does the term ‘self-fulfilling prophecy’ imply in the context of reputation?
It implies that how people perceive you can determine your social status and life outcomes
This is a critical aspect of the societal structure depicted in Othello.
What does Iago’s insinuation about Cassio’s promotion suggest?
It suggests that Cassio was promoted through corrupt favor rather than merit
This sets the stage for Cassio’s reputation issues throughout the play.
What does Cassio’s repetition of ‘reputation’ signify?
Cassio’s repetition of ‘reputation’ signifies the devastation he feels from losing his most valuable asset.
Cassio fears a life outside the upper echelons of society.
How does Shakespeare use prose in Cassio’s speech?
Shakespeare uses prose in Cassio’s speech to indicate his loss of social standing and grip on reality.
Typically, prose in Shakespearean plays marks lower class or madness.
What does the metaphor ‘lost the immortal part of myself’ imply?
It implies that Cassio is mourning his own death and the loss of his reputation, which lives on through legacy.
A good reputation is seen as key to living forever.
What does Cassio mean by stating ‘what remains is bestial’?
He suggests that without respectability, he sees himself as a beast, symbolizing poverty and depravity.
This contrasts the belief that rational thought separates man from beast.
What is Cassio’s personal motivation after losing his reputation?
Cassio’s motivation is to regain his good standing and become lieutenant again.
He appears on stage primarily to discuss his reinstatement.
How does Cassio attempt to regain his reputation?
Cassio attempts to regain his reputation through speech and asking others for help, rather than proving his own merit.
He asks Desdemona to advocate for him instead of approaching Othello directly.
What does Shakespeare suggest about authority and respect?
Shakespeare suggests that authority and respect are matters of who you know, not what you do.
Cassio’s reliance on others for his reputation illustrates this theme.
How does Iago impact Cassio’s reputation?
Iago takes steps to destroy Cassio’s reputation by convincing Othello of Cassio’s deceitfulness.
This shows the power of public opinion, which doesn’t always reflect reality.
True or False: Cassio believes that qualities of character are innate.
False
Shakespeare portrays that qualities of character are bestowed by peers.
Fill in the blank: Cassio’s cries depict him as _______.
bereaved
He is in mourning over his lost reputation.
What does Shakespeare depict as a key point of contention in male characters’ interactions?
The male ego
The male ego is shown as something that characters protect fiercely, influencing their actions and decisions.
How does Cassio feel about his fall from grace?
Humiliated
Cassio is focused on setting things right to avoid appearing weak to Othello.
What does Cassio’s request for others to speak for him reveal about his character?
It makes him seem cowardly
His actions are juxtaposed with his desire to maintain pride and honor.
What irrational aspect of male ego does Shakespeare highlight through Cassio’s actions?
Intimidation by other men and undervaluing female opinion
Cassio finds asking Othello for help embarrassing but not asking his wife.
What is sexual jealousy depicted as in Venice?
The rule rather than an exceptional emotional disorder
Othello is not alone in succumbing to jealousy; it affects multiple characters.
Who is intensely jealous of both Othello and Cassio?
Roderigo
His infatuation with Desdemona drives his jealousy.
What does the character Bianca display when Cassio gives her Desdemona’s handkerchief?
Intense jealousy
Bianca’s jealousy aligns with the overarching theme of sexual jealousy in the play.
What motivates Iago’s actions toward Othello and Cassio?
Sexual jealousy
Iago uses jealousy to provoke Othello and take revenge on Cassio.
How does Cassio’s arrogance manifest before his demotion?
He insists, ‘The lieutenant is to be saved before the ancient’
This statement reflects his pride in his status.
What dramatic irony exists in Cassio’s character?
The audience knows Iago is plotting Cassio’s downfall
This knowledge adds depth to Cassio’s portrayal as a tragic figure.
What does Shakespeare suggest about the nature of male ego?
It is based in the illusion of power and invincibility
Characters like Cassio seek validation through their titles and roles.
What does Cassio’s fixation on his role as lieutenant imply about men?
They need physical validation of their importance
Cassio draws comfort from his title, indicating a deeper need for self-importance.
What does Cassio deny in Act 2 Scene 3, despite evidence to the contrary?
His drunkenness
Cassio tries to convince himself and others that he is sober, highlighting his struggle with self-perception.
Fill in the blank: Cassio’s statement, ‘this is my ancient, this is my right hand, and this is my left hand’ demonstrates his _______.
Denial of being drunk
This wordplay emphasizes his attempts to maintain his dignity.
What archetypes does Shakespeare explore through the character of Cassio?
Masculinity and manhood
Shakespeare examines how society judges masculine power.
How is gender presented in Shakespeare’s plays?
As a performance through which traits are expressed or upheld
People express traits or have traits imposed on them.
What does masculinity symbolize in the context of Cassio?
Authority, confidence, and respectability
These traits are later revealed to be hollow facades.
What social indicators does Shakespeare argue create an illusion of power?
Gender and class
These indicators contribute to the perception of masculinity as synonymous with better qualities.
What does Shakespeare critique about the narrative surrounding masculinity?
The belief that men are better due to being more logical and stronger
This belief leads to men being rewarded without displaying true heroic qualities.
What happens to Cassio when he loses his reputation?
He is left with nothing
His previous reputation as a masculine hero does not reflect actual heroic traits.
How does Cassio’s character illustrate the flaws of masculinity?
He invests self-worth in others’ views and presents a pleasing persona
Cassio’s complacency leads to his downfall.
What does Cassio’s lack of action reveal about societal hierarchies?
A hierarchy governed by nepotism, bias, and corruption
Cassio propels the action forward by asking others to act for him.
What role does symbolism play in Shakespeare’s writing?
It takes the play beyond reality and appeals to emotions and memories
This enhances Shakespeare’s exploration of the human condition.
What are the expectations of Cassio from his Venetian peers?
How he should behave and present himself
These expectations stem from his background as a well-educated, handsome Florentine.
Who is Cassio in ‘Othello’?
A young, well-educated, handsome Florentine
What is the pecking order in Othello?
The Duke and aristocratic members of the Venetian Senate give orders to Othello, who commands Cassio, while lago is subordinate to both
What does lago think of Cassio’s knowledge?
Lago thinks less of Cassio for being a man of knowledge, not of violence
How does Venetian culture view outsiders?
Venetian culture is xenophobic and insular, making even charismatic figures like Cassio vulnerable to distrust
What is the ideal of courtly love in Jacobean England?
It revolved around the character of the attractive ladies’ man who was chivalrous and proper towards women
How does Cassio demonstrate his adherence to courtly love?
By describing Desdemona as a respectable, honourable woman and refusing to engage in lewd remarks
What do Cassio’s references to chivalry symbolize?
His deep sense of honour and outsider status
What are the implications of Cassio’s actions towards Emilia?
They present his actions as the proper, respectful thing to do, implying self-righteousness
What do the terms ‘manners’ and ‘courtesy’ signify in Cassio’s perspective?
They signify the proper behavior expected from someone of his breeding and class
Fill in the blank: Cassio is described by lago as ‘a great _______’.
arithmetician
True or False: Cassio’s Florentine origins mark him as accepted within Venetian society.
False
What are the characteristics of lago’s language compared to Cassio’s?
Lago’s language is typical of male camaraderie with sexist remarks, while Cassio’s is respectful
What does Cassio’s view of women suggest about his character?
He sees himself as the better man for his chivalrous view of women
What does the reference to Cassio’s ‘breeding’ imply?
That a person’s qualities can be attributed to their upbringing, class, and nationality
Fill in the blank: Cassio describes Desdemona as ‘a most exquisite lady’ with ‘an inviting _______’.
eye
