Themes: Deception and Treachery

Question 1

1.1 “Were I the Moor, I would not be Iago.
In following him, I follow but myself”

Answer 1

The consistency of the derogatory language held in this claim against Iago’s real name formulates his perception of self superiority held over Othello- and how he can speak of himself as an unaltered reality where Othello’s identity must always be corroborated with offence.
Explicitly references his desire for self-elevation and gain regardless of how much harm this causes.

Question 2

1.2 “By Janus, I think no”

Answer 2

Janus- figure with two faces that can see what others cannot. Represents Iago’s knowledge of his attempt for evil against the susceptibility of those he manipulates.
By making references to Paganism and disputing the Christian doctrine in this way, Iago distances himself from the morality and convention of Christian belief, diverging to evil in it’s place.

Question 3

1.3 First Senator
“‘tis a pageant/
To keep us in false gaze”

Answer 3

Describes the seemingly fiendish nature of the Turk fleet, in their attempt to gain territory.
Formulates the military basis of logic and wrongness within the characters as they can so clearly see the deception held here, but refuse to perceive the human deception of Iago (they are aware of INTENTION of Turkish- highlights Iago’s innate ability for evil and subtlety in his manipulation)

Question 4

1.3 “For thy escape would teach me tyranny”

Answer 4

Brabantio’s feelings of betrayal due to Desdemona’s marriage.

Women are villainised from the very beginning of play, importance of male honour and superiority, with the exception of women falling submissive.

Question 5

1.3 Brabantio
“She has deceived her father, and may thee”

Answer 5

Omen through rhyme created with “if thou hast eyes to see” from previous line- memorability of this turn of speech.
CUCKOLDRY- seeds of suspicion planted before any interaction between Iago and Othello- innate evil and untrustworthiness of women as a societal belief and understanding within male groups. It does not seem out of reach for women to partake in betrayal and adultery, as they can deceive and abandon so easily. (despite Othello’s denial of any wrongs “My life upon her faith”)