Othello Questions
Act 3
3.1
1. What dramatic purpose is served by this scene?
3.2
1. Justify the inclusion of this scene in the play.
3.3
1. What is the setting? Why is it significant?
2. Why does Cassio leave? What insinuation does Iago make about Cassio’s leaving?
3. What unexpected circumstances (coincidences) advance Iago’s plans for revenge?
4. Outline the methods used by Iago to make Othello jealous.
5. Outline the episode of the handkerchief.
6. What important decisions does Othello make as this scene ends?
7. Define crisis. On what grounds could you justify this scene as the crisis of the play?
3.4
1. According to Othello, what is the history and unusual properties of the handkerchief?
2. What is the role of the clown?
3. How does Bianca get the handkerchief?
4. Explain the dramatic irony involved in this scene.
Act 4
4.1
1. How does Iago explain Othello’s illness to Cassio?
2. Explain how the questioning of Cassio by Iago is an excellent example of dramatic irony.
3. Summarize the changed in the characters of Iago and Othello as they appear in this scene.
4. What two methods of killing Desdemona are suggested in this scene? What method does
Othello choose? Why?
5. What purpose is served by Lodovico?
4.2
1. Define pathos. What are the elements of pathos in this scene.
2. Select and explain at least three instances of irony in this scene.
3. In what ways does Iago’s carelessness foreshadow his changing fortune in this scene?
4. Show how Emilia’s and Roderigo’s role in the plot are becoming more important.
4.3
1. Summarize the character of Desdemona as she appears in this scene.
2. How do Emilia and Desdemona differ in a) their character and b) their views of men
Act 5
5.1
1. How would the deaths of Roderigo and Cassio further the ends of Iago?
2. What does the death of Rodergio reveal about a) Roderigo and b) Iago?
5.2
1. Characterize briefly each of the following:
a) Othello
b) Emilia
c) Iago
2. Summarize the events/catastrophe of the final scene.