Othello
William Shakespeare
Cast of Characters
Othello
Iago
Cassio
A young upstart in the Venetian army,
Cassio befriended Othello right away and
began delivering love notes back and forth
between Othello and Desdemona. Othello
decides that Cassio will be the new
lieutenant.
Desdem.
(Desdemona) The daughter of a Venetian
senator, Desdemona goes behind her
father’s back to marry Othello. She is
widely regarded as chaste and virtuous as
well as exceedingly beautiful.
Emilia
Roderigo
Act I
Scene One:
A Moor (a black man from Africa) who is the
general of the Venetian army, Othello has
fought for Italy for many years.
Othello’s ensign, or right-hand man. He has
worked his way up and befriended Othello
over the last five years. Since there was an
opening for a new lieutenant, Iago assumed
the position would be his because of his
friendship and dedication to Othello.
Iago’s wife, Emilia, serves Desdemona just
as Iago serves Othello. She is dedicated to
her mistress but also loves Iago with fierce
intensity. Iago happens to believe that
Emilia has slept with Othello.
A very wealthy spice merchant, Roderigo
loves Desdemona and wants her. He would
mostly like to marry her but would settle for
one night of sleeping with her. He is upset
and suicidal after learning that she has
married Othello.
Venice, in a Street
Roderigo
I take great offense with you, Iago. You
have had access to all my money and
resources, and you didn’t tell me about
this? I thought you hated this man.
Iago
I told you I did, and I meant it. I had three
of the most powerful men in this city trying
to get me this promotion to lieutenant, but
of course, he already chose Michael Cassio.
Cassio’s not even from this city! He’s never
fought before and has no experience
planning a battle. I’ve been the general’s
right-hand man for five years, and I get
passed over. So now you tell me: can I
possibly love this man as a friend? I hate
him more than you do.
Roderigo
I’d quit my job if I were you.
Iago
I need to keep working for him if I want to
undo him. I have plans for revenge. By
working for him, I’m really working for
myself. I am not what I am.
Roderigo
The thicklips1 has it made if he gets away
with what he’s done.
Iago
Well, we’re outside Desdemona’s house.
Let’s wake up her father and tell him about
the elopement. Let’s poison his mind
before Othello has a chance to talk to him.
[He yells.] Signior Brabantio! Wake up!
Someone has robbed you, is robbing you
this very moment!
Brabantio Desdemona’s father.
Montano
An officer in Cyprus who wields a lot of
power.
Bianca
A prostitute in Cyprus who falls in love with
Cassio.
Remixed by Sarah Lovinggood
[Brabantio opens his window. He has obviously been
sleeping; he’s in his nightgown.]
1
In the 1400s, thicklips was a derogative term used to
describe a person of African descent.
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Othello
William Shakespeare
Brabantio Who is yelling at me at this hour? [He looks
down and sees Roderigo but not Iago.]
Roderigo, is that you? I told you to stop
coming around my house. My daughter is
not interested in you, and neither am I.
Roderigo
Signior Brabantio, do not close your
window! I have news about your daughter.
She, uh…
Iago
[Covering his face so his identity is
unknown] Even now an old black ram is
tupping2 your white sheep!
Brabantio How dare you use such language about my
daughter!
Iago
Check her room, sir! You can kill us if she is
there.
Brabantio [To a servant] Check Desdemona’s room.
[To Iago and Roderigo] I will have you both
whipped for disturbing my household at
this hour.
Servant
Roderigo
[Returning.] Sir, Desdemona is not in her
chamber.
So it is true! Othello has kidnapped and is
raping your daughter right now.
Scene TWO:
The street outside Othello’s
house
[Enter Othello and Iago. Iago reveals to Othello that
Brabantio is on the warpath. Othello acknowledges that
he has eloped with Desdemona but states firmly that
Desdemona was a willing participant. He is not worried.
In comes Michael Cassio, the newly promoted
lieutenant. He already knows that Brabantio and a
bunch of angry neighbors and soldiers are coming for
Othello. He also brings news that the duke of Venice
needs Othello to report to the grand council.
In the distance, they see the horde coming with torches
and lanterns.]
Cassio
Here they come, Othello.
Iago
General, hear my advice: they come with
weapons and intend to use them on you.
Othello
Peace, gentlemen. All will be resolved.
[Enter Brabantio, Roderigo, and several soldiers.]
Brabantio [To his soldiers] Take him out, men!
[Both sides draw swords; everyone is ready
to fight except Othello.] You foul thief;
where have you hidden my daughter? Is
she still a virgin, or have you raped her
already? You must have drugged her or
enchanted her with a spell to get her to
come to you. Well, men, do what I said!
Get him! I don’t care if he’s dead or alive!
Brabantio Good God! We must find Othello at this
very instant. Round up my neighbors,
Roderigo.
Roderigo
Yes, sir.
Iago
[To Roderigo] I must return to Othello. I
have to warn him about what’s coming.
Don’t worry, Roderigo: I’m just playing a
part. You will have your lady before this
night is over.
Remixed by Sarah Lovinggood
Othello
I want to talk to you, Brabantio. Where do
you want me to go?
[EXEUNT3.]
2
Copulating with, having intercourse with. Tupping was a
very vulgar term at the time this play was written.
3
Exeunt means “Everyone in the scene exits at the same
time.”
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Othello
William Shakespeare
Brabantio The only place I want to see you is in prison.
Let’s go to the duke and see what he says.
Othello
Cassio
Remixed by Sarah Lovinggood
Brabantio And I need yours.
Duke
Whatever is the matter?
I’ll obey your wishes, but you must know
that the duke wants to see me for other
reasons, too. Let us go peacefully.
Brabantio My daughter! Oh, my daughter!
It’s true; the duke has sent for Othello.
Please, put your swords away, gentlemen.
Brabantio Worse. She has been stolen from me and
abused.
Brabantio The duke is holding council at this time of
night? Very well. Soldiers, take hold of
Othello. I don’t want him sneaking off on
the way to see the Duke.
[Directly to Othello.] I will see you punished
if it is the last thing I do.
Duke
Duke
[Pauses.] She’s not dead… is she?
Mercy! Whoever is responsible for the
abuse of your lovely daughter will be held
accountable! He has wronged you as well
as her. He will be punished to the full
extent of the law, even if it means death.
Brabantio I was hoping you would say that.
[EXEUNT.]
[Turns and glares at Othello.] That evil man
stands before you now. Duke, arrest
Othello and send him to the dungeons.
Scene Three:
Duke
Inside the grand council of
venice
[The duke and several council members are sitting at a
table. They are holding an emergency meeting because
a fleet of Turkish ships is headed for Cyprus, a
neighboring city. If the Turks take Cyprus, Venice will be
next. The council has decided to send Othello, a mighty
warrior and the general of the Venetian army, to defend
Cyprus.
[To Othello] This is a very serious charge.
What can you say to defend yourself?
Othello
[Speaking calmly and evenly.] Most potent,
grave, and reverend Signiors, my very noble
and approved good masters, that I have
taken away this old man’s daughter, it is
most true. I have married her. Rude am I in
my speech, yet, by your gracious patience, I
will a round, unvarnished tale deliver of my
whole course of love: what drugs, what
charms, what conjuration and mighty
magic, for such proceeding I am charged
withal, I won his daughter.4
Duke
But, Othello, did you forcibly subdue and
coerce this maiden to love you?
Enter Brabantio, Othello, Iago, Roderigo, and several
soldiers.]
Duke
[To Othello.] Valiant Othello, we must send
you straight to Cyprus to fight against the
Turks.
[Noticing Brabantio in his pajamas.] Signior
Brabantio, I did not see you there.
Welcome. We sent for you to help us with
our defense plans, but you were not at
home. We need your counsel.
Oh, my. I am very sorry to hear that.
4
This section has not been adapted from the original. It has
been left in order to show the language and strategy Othello
used in his address to the council.
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Othello
Othello
William Shakespeare
I do beseech you, send for the lady to my
apartment and let her speak of me before
her father. If you do find me foul in her
report, the trust, the office I do hold of you,
not only take away, but let your sentence
even fall upon my life. While we wait for
her, I will tell you how we fell in love.
Remixed by Sarah Lovinggood
[Exit Iago to get Desdemona.]
that his daughter went behind his back. He disowns her
and warns Othello, “Look to her, Moor. She has
deceived her own father. She may very well deceive
you, too.” Othello cannot believe that Desdemona
would ever betray their love. Since Othello must leave in
the morning to fight against the Turks, the council ends.
Desdemona and Iago’s wife, Emilia, will sail to Cyprus in
a few days. Everyone leaves except for Roderigo and
Iago.]
Duke
Well, get on with your story, Othello.
Roderigo
Othello
Her father, Brabantio, loved me as a friend
and often invited me to their house for
dinner. He questioned me for the story of
my life because he was interested in the
battles I have fought and the people I have
encountered in Africa and on my way to
Italy. Desdemona always listened to the
stories, too, but she would have to attend
to her duties as lady of the house, so she
never stayed long at dinner. After dinner,
though, after her father had retired, her
greedy ears would devour up my stories. I
told her stories that made her laugh and
that made her cry. It moved me to see how
much she cared about the hardships I have
lived through. I loved her, but since I am a
Moor and in a lower class than she, I knew a
relationship was out of the question. One
day, though, she spoke of a potential future
husband. She told me, “Can’t you teach
him to tell stories like you? Then I would be
forever content as his wife.” That
statement made me bold enough to confess
my love for her. She reciprocated my love.
This is the only witchcraft I have used: my
stories.
Iago, what will I do now? Desdemona was
the only thing I lived for! Now she is
married to the Moor! I think I will go drown
myself.
Iago
Roderigo, don’t be so dramatic. Be a man.
Desdemona can’t possibly continue to love
Othello. To her, he is just exotic, with his
dark skin and exciting stories. She will tire
of him, and then she will look for someone
else. You need to be there when she starts
looking. So, enlist in the army! I’ll make
sure Desdemona tires of Othello. God, I
hate that man. Make sure you bring lots of
money, Roderigo. You’ll need to buy some
expensive gifts for Desdemona.
Roderigo
I can live with this plan. Where will we
meet in the morning?
Iago
Meet me by the army ships. I will see to it
that you are well-situated.
Roderigo
I will see you in the morning. I promise not
to drown myself, at least not while I’ve still
got a chance with Desdemona.
[Exit Roderigo.]
Iago5
[Looking up.] Here she comes now. Why
don’t you ask my Desdemona?
[Desdemona confirms Othello’s story. She tells her very
sad father that she can no longer live with him since she
is now married to Othello. Brabantio is brokenhearted
[Aside] I hate the Moor, even though most
people—including him—think I am his best
friend. Well, I’m pretty sure that he slept
5
Iago is speaking to the audience in this part. There are no
other actors on stage. This is the audience’s chance to hear
the innermost beliefs and thoughts of Iago.
4
Othello
William Shakespeare
with my wife, so I don’t feel any allegiances
toward Othello anyway. He does think
highly of me, though. If Cassio hadn’t
gotten that promotion, then I would have
been a shoo-in. If I want to be lieutenant,
I’ve got to get Cassio out of the way.
[Thinking of a plan.] I know that Cassio and
Desdemona are very close. I think I can
play with that relationship and make
Othello think that they are lovers instead of
just friends. Othello thinks I’m honest, so
even though I’ll be lying about Desdemona
sleeping with Cassio, Othello will believe
me. I will lead him like I would lead a
horse.
[EXEUNT.]
Remixed by Sarah Lovinggood
Act II
Scene One:
A Seaport in Cyprus
[Othello and Cassio left for Cyprus the next morning in
separate ships. As they sailed, a large storm brewed
ahead of them. Cassio’s ship made it to Cyprus before
the storm hit; Othello’s ship was delayed. Cassio fears
that it has been lost.
Meanwhile, another ship with Iago, Desdemona, and
Emilia has arrived. Desdemona, like Cassio, is worried
that Othello’s ship might have gone down in the storm.
A messenger arrives and states that Othello’s ship has
been spotted on the horizon. There is more news, too:
the storm sank all the Turkish boats, so there will be no
war.
Desdemona is relieved that Othello is safe, and Cassio is
giddy that the Turks were already defeated by Mother
Nature. Cassio takes Desdemona’s hand and kisses it.
He starts to whisper in her ear.]
Iago
[Speaking to himself.] Oh, Cassio has taken
Desdemona by the hand? Now he’s
whispering in her ear. I could use this
against him. I can feel a plan forming now: I
can get revenge against Cassio by stripping
him of his lieutenancy, and I get also get
back at Othello for passing me over by
breaking up his marriage. And he continues
to kiss her fingers! This will be too easy.
[Aloud to everyone.] Here he comes! That
was Othello’s trumpet!
Desdem.
Let’s go and meet him! I can’t wait to see
my husband! Hurry up!
[Othello runs into the scene. He stops when he sees
Desdemona.]
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Othello
William Shakespeare
Othello
Oh, my fairest warrior!
Desdem.
My dear Othello!
Othello
My soul is now at rest. If I were to die right
now, I would be happy, now that I have
seen you again. I do not think I could bear
another separation from you, darling.
Desdem.
May heaven bless our marriage and make
our love only grow. I couldn’t bear to be
apart from you, either.
Othello
Enough of this talk. Come here, sweetness.
Let me stop your lips. [He kisses her.]
[To everyone] Let us go to the castle. We
never got a proper honeymoon, so let us go
and celebrate!
Scene TWO:
A Hall in the Castle
[Enter Othello, Desdemona, and Cassio. Othello is tired
from his travels, but he desperately wants time with
Desdemona since they haven’t had a real wedding night
yet. He leaves Cassio in charge of the night watch and
leaves with Desdemona to their chamber.
Iago comes to Cassio with a few bottles of wine. He
tries and fails to convince Cassio to drink. Cassio says
that he’s on the job and can’t.
A doorbell rings, and Cassio gets up to see who is at the
door.]
Iago
[To Iago] Go fetch my bags from the boat.
[To Desdemona] Come, my wife. We have
much time to make up for.
[EXEUNT all except Iago.]
Iago
Oh, you can celebrate now, Othello, but I
will soon play you like a piano. That’s what
you get for sleeping with my wife. I may
not have the proof you did it, but a husband
always knows.
[He looks up to see Roderigo approaching.]
I wonder what he wants?
[Roderigo has disguised himself as a soldier. He has sold
off most of his belongings and has given most of his
money and jewels to Iago, who is supposed to give them
to Desdemona as presents from a secret admirer.
Roderigo is upset that Desdemona has not left Othello
yet. Iago calms him down and tells him of the new plan:
get Othello to believe that Desdemona is sleeping with
Cassio. Roderigo, convinced that the new plan will
work, leaves with Iago.]
[EXEUNT.]
Remixed by Sarah Lovinggood
[To himself.] If I can get this man to drink
one drink, I know he’ll drink more after
that. I know him—he’s a nasty drunk. It’ll
be too easy to get him ready to fight.
[Cassio re-enters with an important soldier named
Montano, who is already tipsy. Together with Iago,
Montano convinces Cassio to drink a toast to Othello’s
new marriage. Cassio starts with one drink and finishes
quickly. It is very easy for Iago to push more alcohol on
Cassio. They continue drinking and telling jokes until
Cassio starts to get argumentative. He insults Iago
when he claims that he is more important that Iago is.]
Cassio
Iago, I’m sorry. That was out of line.
*Hiccup* Oops, I’m supposed to be
working. Iago, you weren’t supposed to let
me get drunk! Is there any more wine?
Iago
You’ve consumed most of it.
Cassio
No matter. Let’s get back to work, but not
until I relieve myself.
[He stumbles as he gets up. The men laugh
at him.] Do not think, gentlemen, that I am
drunk. I know this is my left hand, and this
is my right hand. I’m not drunk. *Hiccup* I
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William Shakespeare
can stand up and speak well enough. You
must not think that I am drunk.
Remixed by Sarah Lovinggood
Cassio
You had better let go of me. This is not
your fight, but it could be.
[Cassio exits to find a bathroom.]
Montano
Come on, man. You’re drunk!
Montano
Cassio
Drunk!? That’s it!
Well, he’s a fun fellow! Seriously, though,
let’s sober up and get to work.
Iago
Doesn’t it worry you that he’s so easily
affected and controlled by wine? He’s
clearly drunk! How can he do his job?
Honestly, I don’t know why Othello puts
faith in him.
Montano
Does he get this drunk very often? We
should tell the general if this is the case.
Iago
Cassio is my friend; I don’t want to do him
wrong, but I do wish he wouldn’t drink so
much so often.
[There is a loud noise in the hall. Two men
are yelling at each other.] What is that
noise?
Roderigo
[Cassio jerks out of Montano’s grip. Montano tries to
grab his own sword, but Cassio is too quick. He slashes
Montano across the abdomen. Montano yells loudly
and falls to the ground. Servants run into the room and
start yelling for help. Cassio stands still, stunned at
what he has done. Roderigo manages to slip out
without being seen. Moments later, Othello, wrapped in
a sheet, storms into the room. He looks at Montano on
the floor and sees Cassio with his sword drawn and
bloody.]
Othello
What is the matter here?
Montano
I’ve been cut! I think I might die! [He
faints. Servants go to tend to him.]
Othello
Nobody move. What happened here?
Answer me!
[From the hallway.] Help, help!
[No one answers. Othello glares at
everyone and then focuses on Iago.]
Honest Iago, I know I can count on you for
the truth. Who started this fight?
[Roderigo runs into the room followed closely by Cassio,
whose sword is drawn. Cassio looks deranged.]
Cassio
Come back here, you coward! Insult me
again!
Iago
I do not know.
Montano
[Stepping in front of Cassio.] Lieutenant,
what is the matter?
Othello
[Irritated, he turns to Cassio.] Michael, why
is your sword drawn? Why are you so pale?
Cassio
How dare a common soldier insult me like
that! I’ll beat him into a wine barrel!
Cassio
If I speak, I incriminate myself. Please
pardon my silence.
Roderigo
[Hiding behind Montano.] Save me! He
said he was going to kill me!
Othello
[Yelling, almost growling.] Someone must
tell me how this happened! Montano is
very important here is Cyprus! Whoever
did this to him, even if it were my own
brother, will be immediately punished!
[Cassio reaches his sword around Montano and swipes
at Roderigo. Montano grabs Cassio’s free hand.]
Montano
Lieutenant! You must stop! A soldier does
not behave like this!
[He turns again to Iago.] Who began this
fight?
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Othello
Iago
William Shakespeare
I would rather have my tongue cut out of
my mouth than bring blame upon Michael
Cassio. If you must know, there was a
ruckus in the hall. Cassio chased some
rogue in here, and Montano got in the
middle of their fight. He tried to calm
Cassio down, but Cassio lashed out at him
instead.
for help since Othello will likely listen to anything his
wife says. Cassio thanks him and leaves.]
Iago
[Iago lowers his head, acting sorry about
the things he is saying about Cassio.] I hate
to say this, sir. Cassio was in the wrong, but
surely he didn’t mean it. He was under the
influence.
Othello
Thank you for your honesty, but don’t try to
make Cassio look better. He has brought
this upon himself.
Remixed by Sarah Lovinggood
[To himself.] I can’t believe how easy this
is! This fool is going to be found whispering
secrets to Desdemona, who will then make
every word out of her mouth about Cassio.
Meanwhile, I’ll make sure Othello thinks
she’s on Cassio’s side because he’s sleeping
with her. The more she talks about Cassio,
the angrier Othello will get. Jealousy is
powerful. I will turn her bright virtue into
darkness, and her own love of helping
others will undo her.
[EXEUNT.]
[He turns to Cassio.] You may be a dear
friend of mine, but you will never again be
my officer.
[Desdemona comes in, also wrapped in a
sheet. She looks confused.] Look at this,
Cassio! You even woke up my bride. I’m
going to make an example of you.
Desdem.
Husband, what is the matter?
Othello
[His tone much softer.] All’s well now,
sweetheart. Come away to bed.
[To Iago.] See that this mess is cleaned up.
[To Desdemona.] Come, wife. You will
learn that it is part of a soldier’s life to be
woken up in the middle of the night.
[EXEUNT all but Iago and Cassio.]
[Cassio falls to his knees and cries out like he is
wounded. Iago, seizing an opportunity to further his
plan, acts concerned about Cassio. It turns out that the
only part of Cassio that is injured is his reputation. He
begs Iago for help. Iago counsels him to ask Desdemona
8
Othello
William Shakespeare
Act III
Iago
Cassio! No, surely he would not skulk away
so guilty-like from your wife. It must have
been someone else.
Othello
No, it was Cassio. You think he looked
guilty?
Scene One:
In Front of the Castle
[Cassio has already met with Iago again. Iago promised
that through his wife, Emilia, Cassio will be able to
speak privately with Desdemona. This scene begins
after Cassio has asked Desdemona for help.]
Remixed by Sarah Lovinggood
[Before Iago can continue, Desdemona rushes over to
the men.]
Desdem.
How are you, my husband? I have been
talking with a suitor here, a man who is so
miserable since he has fallen out of your
favor. There he goes now. Please, Othello,
call Cassio back and talk with him.
Othello
So that was him who went just now?
Desdem.
Your husband is so honest and faithful to
his friends! Do not doubt, Cassio. You will
be lieutenant again in no time!
Yes, and he was so sad that he left part of
his grief with me. I’m suffering with him.
Please, call him back.
Othello
Not now, sweet Desdemona. Perhaps he
can meet with me another time.
Lovely lady, whatever becomes of me, I will
always be your servant.
Desdem.
How soon?
Emilia
Desdemona, here comes Othello.
Othello
The sooner just for you.
Cassio
[Looks uneasy.] Madam, I can’t face him,
not now. I’ll take my leave.
Desdem.
Shall we invite him to supper, then?
Othello
No, not tonight.
Desdem.
Tomorrow night for dinner, then?
Othello
No, I have to meet with my soldiers
tomorrow night.
Desdem.
Well, then, three nights from now. You
can’t put it off forever. He’s really sorry;
you know that.
Othello
Fine, let him come when he’s ready. I can’t
deny you anything. But leave me alone for
a while. I have business to attend to.
Desdem.
That’s all I wanted to hear. Let me be on
my way.
Desdem.
Cassio, of course I will help you. I’ll do
everything in my power to make sure that
your friendship with my husband and your
position are restored.
Emilia
Yes, madam, do this. My husband has been
complaining to me as if it were he whom
Othello had demoted!
Desdem.
Cassio
Desdem.
No, stay and hear what I have to say to him!
Cassio
I just can’t. You didn’t see the way he
looked at me last night. I must go.
[Trying not to be seen, Cassio leaves. Iago points out
Cassio leaving to Othello. They have a private
conversation before joining their wives.]
Iago
Hmm, I don’t like the look of that.
Othello
The look of what? Hey, was that Cassio
who was leaving my wife?
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Remixed by Sarah Lovinggood
Othello
You know it won’t be long until I come to
you, wife.
Othello
You are always honest with me. For that, I
am bound to you forever.
Desdem.
Whenever you like. I am an obedient wife.
Iago
I can see that my thoughts have upset you.
[Exit Desdemona and Emilia.]
Othello
Not at all, not at all.
Othello
[Calling after Desdemona.] God help me, I
love you! What a beautiful woman!
Iago
Come on. Cassio’s my friend, and yours,
too. I can see that you’re upset about this.
Iago
[Changing the subject.] Sir, when you
started your relationship with Desdemona,
did Michael Cassio know about your love?
Othello
Why should I be? I think Desdemona’s
perfectly honest.
Iago
Good for her! And good for you for thinking
that.
Othello
He knew about it from first to last. Why?
Iago
Oh, no reason. I was just wondering. I
didn’t think he knew her that well.
Othello
…And yet, I wonder about her. If she lied to
her father…
Othello
Well, he did. He actually was the one who
delivered our love letters. Brabantio would
have had me arrested if I openly pursued
his daughter. Do you think it’s bad that
Cassio delivered my letters? I think he’s an
honest man. What do you think of him?
Iago
Othello, sir, I am not in a position to tell you
what to do, but don’t think about that. It
will only consume you. Think on her better
qualities.
Othello
[Visibly distracted now.] All right, Iago.
Farewell for now. I’ll talk to you later about
your thoughts. In the meantime, can you
ask Emilia to keep her eye on Desdemona?
Thank you. Leave me, now.
Iago
[Turning to go.] I take my leave, sir.
Othello
[Mostly to himself.] Why did I marry? She
seems so honest, but Iago knows more than
he is telling me.
Iago
[Turning back to Othello.] Othello, please
do not think about this problem anymore.
Leave it time. Cassio deserves his place as
lieutenant, but you can keep him wondering
for awhile as you observe your wife.
Iago
You know I love you as a friend. I guess I
think Cassio’s an honest man.
Othello
Come on; tell me what you really think.
Iago
But I have no proof to support my own
opinion. All I will say is this: watch your
wife when Cassio is around.
Othello
Really? You think I should?
Iago
Remember, sir, she did deceive her father in
marrying you. She pretended that she was
afraid of you when her father was around,
remember? She put up a false front against
the one person she claimed to love the
most; she could do it again.
[Seeing Othello getting upset.] But really,
sir, these are just my thoughts. Nothing
more.
[He pauses, thinks, then continues.] I
would, however, take notice if you see him
talking to Desdemona alone. I would also
pay attention to how much she talks about
him. Unless you see or hear something,
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though, don’t worry yourself about it.
Think positively, sir.
Emilia
Oh, Iago, you should be glad to find me
alone. I have something for you.
Othello
Don’t worry about what I’m thinking.
Iago
Iago
Fine, sir. I take my leave.
Oh yes? It’s a common thing that I could
get any night from you.
Emilia
Don’t be crass. What would you give me if I
told you I had Desdemona’s handkerchief?
You know, the one you keep asking for?
Iago
[Very interested.] Have you stolen it from
her?
Emilia
Oh, no! She dropped it on the ground. I
simply took it up, and here it is. [She holds
the handkerchief in front of her.]
Iago
That’s a good wench. Give it here. [He
grabs for it.]
Emilia
[Snatching it out of his reach.] No, no, no…
You have to tell me what you are going to
do with it. Why have you been after it for
so long?
Iago
[Grabs the handkerchief out of her hands.]
Why, what’s it to you?
Emilia
Oh, please give it back. Desdemona will be
so sad if she thinks she lost it!
Iago
I’ll return it soon enough. I want to have
the pattern copied. Please, leave me.
[Exit Iago.]
Othello
[Muttering to himself.] Iago has always
been honest with me. I have no reason to
doubt him. If I can prove she’s been
unfaithful, I’d make it known to all and
punish the woman. Oh, marriage is a curse!
I can call the woman mine, but I can’t
control what she hungers for.
[Looks up.] Here she comes now.
[Desdemona comes in and sees that Othello is
distressed. He complains of a headache. She tries to
soothe him by wrapping her handkerchief around his
head, but he waves her off. The handkerchief falls to
the floor, unnoticed. Desdemona convinces Othello to
come to bed so she can take care of him. As she and
Othello leave, Emilia comes in.]
Emilia
[Seeing the handkerchief, she scoops it up
from the ground. It is white with
embroidered strawberries. Emilia talks to
herself.] I am so glad I have found this
handkerchief! Desdemona would be so sad
if she lost it. It was her first present from
Othello.
[Emilia starts after Desdemona, but then
she stops.] Hmm… Iago has been pestering
me to steal this handkerchief. Maybe I’ll let
him know I have it before I give it back to
my lady.
[Enter Iago.]
Iago
Woman, what are you doing here alone?
Are you not supposed to be working for
Desdemona?
[Emilia, looking sad and neglected, obediently leaves.]
Iago
[To himself.] This is perfect! I can “lose”
this handkerchief in Cassio’s room, and then
it will look incriminating!
[Looks up and sees Othello coming. He
stuffs the handkerchief into his shirt.] Hello,
Othello! How goes it?
[Othello is upset and yells at Iago. He has obviously
been thinking more about the possibility that
Desdemona is cheating on him. He forces Iago to tell
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him more. Othello threatens to kill Iago if he cannot
produce proof that Desdemona is cheating. Iago
mentions that he saw Cassio with the handkerchief, and
Othello accepts it as proof of the affair. Othello
mentions the possibility of murdering both Cassio and
Desdemona, but Iago stops him from talking about it.
Othello, then and there, promotes Iago to lieutenant,
although it’s not official until Othello does the
paperwork and announces it to everyone.]
Desdem.
How are you, good Cassio? What’s the
news with you?
Cassio
There is no news. Things are still as bad as
they were before. Please, Desdemona, will
you please try your hardest to make him
hear my case? It kills me that Othello is still
angry with me.
Desdem.
Cassio, I would talk to him, but I don’t know
that he would listen to me right now.
Iago
Is Othello angry?
Emilia
He left just now. He seemed deeply
disturbed.
Iago
I can’t believe he’s angry! I must go
investigate.
Desdem.
Please do, Iago. Othello always listens to
you.
[EXEUNT.]
Scene two:
In Front of the Castle Later
that Day
[Emilia and Desdemona are sitting outside and
discussing marriage when Othello storms in. Without
saying hello, he demands to see the handkerchief.
Desdemona cannot find it and lies that it is back in her
closet. Othello demands that she go find it, but
Desdemona changes the subject. She asks Othello
about repromoting Cassio, who has been to see her
again. Othello becomes more angry at the mention of
Cassio’s name and storms off, still yelling about the
handkerchief.]
Emilia
Desdem.
Emilia
What is wrong with him? He’s acting so
jealous!
I’ve never seen this side of him before. I
can’t believe he was so angry about the
handkerchief. I myself am really upset that
it’s missing. Have you seen it?
[Exit Iago, Desdemona, and Emilia. Cassio stays and is
found by Bianca, his lover in Cyprus.]
Bianca
Hey there, Cassio. Where have you been?
Cassio
Ah, Bianca! How are you, lovely woman? I
swear, I was just on my way to your house.
Bianca
And I was on my way to your house.
[Sourly.] You haven’t been to see me in a
week.
Cassio
Please excuse that, Bianca. I’ve been
dealing with a lot, but I promise that I will
be to your house soon. Here, I have a gift
for you. [He pulls out Desdemona’s
handkerchief.] How do you like this?
Bianca
[Takes it eagerly.] Oh, Cassio! It’s lovely!
Wait, where did this come from? Does it
belong to another woman?
Cassio
Oh, please. You’re getting jealous over
nothing.
[Nervously.] No, madam.
[Looks up.] Lady, here comes my husband
with Cassio.
[Enter Iago and Cassio. Desdemona pretends that
everything is all right.]
Remixed by Sarah Lovinggood
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Bianca
Well, where did it come from, then?
Cassio
It’s as simple as this: I found it in my room.
I don’t know whose it is, but it’s as lovely as
you are, so it’s for you, Love.
Bianca
Well, then, I’ll accept it. See you at dinner
tonight?
Cassio
Not soon enough.
[EXEUNT.]
Remixed by Sarah Lovinggood
Act IV
Scene One:
In Front of the Castle
[Othello and Iago discuss whether or not the loss of the
handkerchief makes Desdemona guilty of adultery.
Othello again threatens to kill Iago if he cannot prove
that she is unfaithful. Iago comes up with an idea and
asks Othello to hide behind a wall. He fetches Cassio
and questions him about Bianca but makes it seem like
Cassio is talking about Desdemona.]
Iago
Cassio, how are you doing?
Cassio
I could be better. Othello is still mad at me.
Iago
Make sure you keep after Desdemona.
[He lowers his voice to a whisper.] Now, if
all you had to do was make Bianca happy
instead of Othello, you’d be lieutenant just
like that!
Cassio
[Laughs.] Yes, that poor, love-hungry
woman.
Iago
[Speaking loudly now.] I never knew a
woman who liked a man so much.
Cassio
True, true. I think she loves me.
Iago
She’s been telling people that she wants to
marry you. Do you intend to?
Cassio
Please! I’m just a customer!
Iago
Really, though, I’ve heard that you wanted
to marry her, too!
Cassio
She’s spreading that rumor by herself. She
follows me everywhere. It’s borderline
obsession! Every chance she gets, she’s
hanging on me, even in front of the
soldiers! I need to think about seeing
someone else for their, um, services.
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William Shakespeare
[Looks up.] Well, have fun telling her. Here
she comes, and she looks angry.
[Enter Bianca.]
Bianca
I can’t believe I believed you! What were
you thinking, giving me some other
woman’s handkerchief! Here! [She throws
the handkerchief in his face.] Take it and
give it back to your whore.
Cassio
What, Bianca? What are you talking about?
Bianca
Don’t bother showing up for dinner tonight.
Don’t come to my house at all unless you
want to get a piece of my mind!
[Exit Bianca.]
Iago
You best go after her, friend.
Cassio
I can make it up to her easily. See you, Iago.
[Exit Cassio. Othello comes out from behind the wall.
He is seething with anger.]
Othello
How shall I murder him, Iago?
Iago
Did you hear him laugh at his sins? Did you
see the handkerchief?
Othello
Iago
Remixed by Sarah Lovinggood
[There is a trumpet signaling the arrival of a boat from
Venice. The duke has sent Lodovico, Desdemona’s
cousin, to deliver a message to Othello. Lodovico enters
with Desdemona, who has been looking for Othello.
Lodovico hands a sealed envelope to Othello. He opens
it and begins to read.]
Iago
Welcome, Signior Lodovico.
Lodovico
Thank you. How is Lieutenant Cassio?
Desdem.
Cousin, he and Othello are at odds
presently, but perhaps you being here will
make everything right.
Lodovico
Are they fighting?
Desdem.
There has been a misunderstanding. I hope
that it can be resolved soon, for I love
Cassio dearly.
Othello
Fire and brimstone!
Desdem.
Othello? Are you angry?
[Othello does not reply. He is looking at the letter.]
Lodovico
Maybe the letter moved him. I believe the
duke wants Othello to come home and
leave Cassio in charge of Cyprus.
Was that the one I gave to Desdemona?
Othello
Indeed.
It was the same. You see how he treats
her? She gave it to him, and he gave it to a
prostitute.
Desdem.
Othello, isn’t that wonderful news? Now
we can—
Othello
[Yells.] Devil!
Othello
I want to take a year to kill him. I want him
to feel misery! Her, too!
Iago
Come now, you don’t need to kill
Desdemona. Forget about that.
Othello
Let her rot and perish! Let it happen
tonight, for I will not share my bed with her
again! My heart is turned to stone.
[Othello strikes Desdemona hard across her face.]
Desdem.
[Stunned.] Husband? I have not deserved
this.
Othello
Your tears are false. Get out of my sight.
Desdem.
I will not stay if you want me to go. I am
obedient. [She turns to leave.]
Iago
Strangle her in your bed, even the bed she
has contaminated.
Lodovico
Othello, my lord, please call her back and
apologize.
Othello
Yes, that is excellent.
Othello
Very well. Mistress?
Desdem.
[Turns back to Othello.] Yes, husband?
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Othello
[Speaks to Lodovico.] What would you say
to a whore?
Lodovico
A whore, Othello?
Othello
Yes. A whore. How would you speak to a
whore? Well? Go ahead. Here she is.
[Desdemona turns and runs out. She is horribly
embarrassed. Othello storms out in the opposite
direction.]
Lodovico
[To Iago.] Is this the same man who our
entire council decided was the right man to
lead the army?
Iago
He is much changed.
Lodovico
Is he crazy? I can’t believe he struck his
wife! I thought he was a better man than
that.
Roderigo
You have wasted my time and my money! I
sold everything I had to buy expensive
presents for Desdemona, but I don’t think
you gave her any of it! You’ve tricked me!
Iago
If you say so, fine.
Roderigo
No, not fine! I’m going to confront
Desdemona and ask for my gifts back. If
she can give them back, then you don’t
have to worry about me; however, if she
doesn’t have them, I will come looking for
you, and I will get retribution.
Iago
There, I knew you had some courage in you!
Let’s build on that passion. Yes, you’ve
accused me of things I didn’t do, but I can
look past that. I’ve been nothing but a
friend to you, and I swear that I have not
done you wrong.
Roderigo
I haven’t gotten Desdemona yet.
Iago
Yes, you’ve had to wait a long time for her,
but if you can gather up your courage for
one last effort, you will have her! Trust me,
if you are not enjoying Desdemona in bed
by tomorrow night, you can kill me!
Roderigo
Well, fine. What’s your plan?
Iago
Othello just received the message that he is
to return home and leave Cassio in charge
of Cyprus.
Roderigo
So Desdemona’s off to Venice, too?
Iago
No, Othello wants to travel to Africa first,
unless he is delayed here. The only reason
he would be delayed is if something awful
happens to Cassio.
Roderigo
What do you mean, “something awful?”
Iago
We need to make him incapable of doing
his job. Let’s knock out his brains.
[EXEUNT.]
Scene Two:
A room inside the castle
[Othello has cornered Emilia and questions her about
Desdemona’s infidelities with Cassio. Emilia says that
she knows nothing about it. Enraged, Othello sends
Emilia to fetch Desdemona. He questions her without
saying Cassio’s name, and she is confused. He calls her
a whore, and she tells him that she shouldn’t be treated
that way. Othello storms off. Emilia tries to comfort
Desdemona, who has no idea what has suddenly
changed in her husband. Iago enters the scene, and
Desdemona begs for his help. Iago says that he will talk
to Othello but cannot promise that Othello’s behavior
will change. The women leave. Iago is joined by
Roderigo, who is very angry with Iago.]
Roderigo
Iago
Iago, I think you’ve been playing me. I’m
not going to put up with you anymore.
Don’t do anything rash. Hear me out!
You’re taking things out of context.
Remixed by Sarah Lovinggood
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Roderigo
You want me to kill him?
Iago
Yes, if you are man enough to do it.
Roderigo
I’ll consider it, but you have to tell me the
rest of the plan.
Iago
[EXEUNT.]
Walk with me. There is much to consider.
Remixed by Sarah Lovinggood
Act V
Scene One:
Out in the Street
[Iago and Roderigo are walking down a very dark street.
There are no streetlights, and it is almost pitch black.
They are nearing Bianca’s house, where Cassio has been
all night.]
Iago
Roderigo, stand inside this doorway. He’ll
come straight down this road. Have your
sword ready, and hit him where I showed
you. Fear nothing. I’ll be right next to you.
You must be strong, or else we will fail.
Roderigo
Please be near to me. I don’t know if I can
do it.
Iago
Be a man.
[Iago moves to the next dark doorway and
speaks to himself.] Roderigo is a wild card. I
may have pushed him too much. Oh well, it
doesn’t matter if he kills Cassio or if Cassio
kills him. Either way works a little, although
if Roderigo lives, I owe him a lot of money.
If Cassio lives, Othello may discover that I’ve
been lying about Cassio and Desdemona.
Hmm. Cassio must die. Here he comes!
[Enter Cassio.]
Roderigo
[Jumping out from the doorway.] Cassio,
prepare to die! [He swings and misses.]
Cassio
What on earth? Who are you? You’ll pay
for that! [He draws his own sword and
stabs Roderigo in the abdomen.]
Roderigo
Oh, God! I think I’m dying! [He falls to the
ground.]
[As Cassio comes closer to Roderigo on the ground, Iago
darts out of his hiding place and slashes Cassio across
the back of his leg. Iago runs off. Cassio drops
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William Shakespeare
immediately and does not see who cut him. It is a very
serious wound.]
Cassio
Remixed by Sarah Lovinggood
Cassio
Oh, my God! I may never walk again!
Villain, where are you? Come back and
show your face!
One of them got away, but the other one I
hit pretty seriously. He’s around here
somewhere.
Roderigo
[There is no answer. Cassio begins yelling
for help at the top of his lungs.] Help!
Murderers in the street! Help me!
[He has been falling in and out of
consciousness. For the moment, he is
conscious.] Here, help me!
Cassio
Iago, that’s one of them. I recognize his
voice.
Iago
Then you shall be avenged.
[Lodovico and a man named Gratiano have been out
patrolling the streets. They rush into the scene when
they hear Cassio’s calls for help. It is so dark that they
cannot see either Cassio or Roderigo.]
Lodovico
Who’s there? Where are you?
Roderigo
Help me over here! I think I’m bleeding to
death!
[Lodovico and Gratiano fumble around in the dark. Both
Cassio and Roderigo continue calling for help. Iago
returns to the scene with a lantern, trying to look like he
just arrived.]
Gratiano
Hey, you with the lantern! Who are you?
Iago
Who’s over there? Did someone say there
was a murder?
Lodovico
We do not know.
Iago
Didn’t you hear someone yelling?
Cassio
[Recognizing Iago’s voice.] Iago! Thank
God, Iago! Over here! For heaven’s sake,
help me!
Iago
[Pretends not to recognize Cassio’s voice.]
Who’s that? Where are you?
Cassio
Iago, it’s me, Cassio! I’ve been attacked by
two villains. Please, give me some help.
Iago
[Finds his way over to Cassio.] Oh,
Lieutenant! Who has done this to you?
[He leaves the lantern with Cassio and goes
to where he knows Roderigo is. He pulls out
his own sword.] Die, villain!
Roderigo
[Feeling Iago’s blade stab his chest, he
whispers.] God damn you, Iago. You
inhuman dog. [He dies.]
Iago
[Turning to find the other men.] Lodovico?
Look to the lantern. It’s Cassio who is hurt.
[He makes his way back to Cassio and
speaks to him.] Brother, how are you?
Cassio
My leg is cut in two, I think.
Iago
Heaven forbid! [Shouting] Gentlemen, get
more lights! I need to bind his leg.
[Enter Bianca, who has heard the shouting from her
house. She carries her own lantern.]
Bianca
What’s going on out here? Who’s yelling?
[She makes her way to where Cassio lies on
the ground. She sees him and drops on her
knees. She doesn’t notice Iago standing
there.] Oh, my sweet Cassio! Cassio!
Cassio, are you all right? Cassio! He’s
unconscious! Someone help him!
Iago
[Speaking to Lodovico and Gratiano.] You
see this, gentlemen? I think she’s going on
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Remixed by Sarah Lovinggood
too much. Maybe she had something to do
with this attempted murder.
Othello
[Refusing to look in her eyes.] Have you said
your prayers tonight?
Bianca
[Noticing Iago for the first time.] I swear it,
no! I love this man!
Desdem.
Iago
And who is your accomplice? Let’s take a
look.
[Looks alarmed. She has been afraid of
Othello since he hit her.] What do you
mean by that, Othello?
Othello
I can’t kill you until I’m sure your soul is
prepared.
Desdem.
[Surprisingly calm.] You speak of killing?
Then heaven have mercy on me.
Othello
Amen.
Desdem.
[Realizing he interpreted what she said as a
prayer.] Please, don’t kill me! You’re
scaring me! Your eyes are fearsome! I am
guilty of nothing! What is the matter?
Othello
The handkerchief that I gave to you: you
gave it to Cassio.
Desdem.
No, by my soul! Send for Cassio, and he will
tell you the truth! Do you suspect me of
sleeping with him? He’s like a brother to
me! I never gave him your handkerchief!
Call him up here!
Othello
I saw him with it. You damned woman, you
stole my heart and then turned it to stone.
I’m about to do you a favor by killing you
after allowing you to say your prayers.
Desdem.
I never gave Cassio anything! Bring him
here! He will support me!
Othello
He already confessed that he slept with
you.
Desdem.
What? Why would he do that! It’s an
untruth!
Othello
And he can’t say anything else. Iago has
orders to kill Cassio. It should be done by
now.
[He crosses over to where Roderigo’s body
lies. He pretends to be shocked and gasps
loudly.] I know this man! This is Roderigo
of Venice! He was a friend of mine!
[Iago, Lodovico, and Gratiano gang up on Bianca and
accuse her of hiring Roderigo to murder Cassio. She
protests her innocence. Gratiano grabs Bianca and
leads her back to the castle. Lodovico helps Cassio to
walk. Iago hangs back for a minute before running to
help with Cassio.]
Iago
[Muttering to himself.] This is the night that
either makes me or breaks me.
[EXEUNT.]
Scene TWo:
Othello and Desdemona’s
Bedroom
[Othello enters the bedroom and looks at Desdemona,
who is asleep on their bed. She is wearing the
nightgown she wore on their wedding night. It is
obvious that she has tried to make herself as attractive
as possible in order to appease Othello. He sits on the
bed next to her and debates about following through
with her murder. He loves his wife, but her offense is
too great. He resolves to kill her. Her beauty is too
much for him, though. He leans down to kiss her, and
she wakes.]
Desdem.
Othello? Come to bed.
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Desdem.
William Shakespeare
Is he dead already? Then God help me.
There is no one to help me! [She begins to
weep.]
Othello
You are crying for him? You whore!
Desdem.
[Begging] Let me live! I can defend myself
in the morning! Let me find someone to
prove my innocence!
Othello
It is too late.
[He puts his hands around her neck and strangles her.
After she has stopped moving, he takes his hands from
her neck and stares at them for a long time. He realizes
that he has killed her.
lady, speak! [She falls on the bed next to
Desdemona and crawls over to her.]
Desdem.
[Whispers.] I die a guiltless death.
Emilia
[Stroking Desdemona’s hair.] Who killed
you?
Desdem.
No one. I killed myself. Pray for my soul.
Farewell! [She dies.]
Othello
I killed her. She was cheating on me. She
was as false as the devil. Cassio slept with
her. Just ask your husband—he knew
everything.
Emilia
[She jerks up at the mention of Iago. She
scrambles off the bed and faces Othello.]
My husband knew about this?
Othello
He was the one who told me about it. You
know how honest he is. Your honest
husband told me all.
Emilia
If he was the one who told you that
loathsome lie, may he rot in hell! He told
you lies! Poor Desdemona loved you too
much.
There is a knock at the door. Othello hears Emilia’s
voice. He takes a long time to come to the door.]
Othello
[Opening the door, he motions for Emilia to
enter. He has drawn the curtains around
the bed so Desdemona’s body is obscured.]
Come in, Emilia. What’s the matter?
Remixed by Sarah Lovinggood
Emilia
Sir, I bring news. A man named Roderigo
attempted to kill Cassio, and Roderigo is
dead.
Othello
So, Roderigo is dead? And Cassio is dead?
Emilia
No, I didn’t say that. Cassio is not killed.
Othello
He’s not? Something is wrong. My revenge
is out of tune.
[She goes to the bedroom door, throws it
open, and calls for help. Othello does not
stop her. He is silent.] Help, guards! The
Moor has killed my mistress! Murder!
Murder!
Desdem.
[She is not quite dead.6 She whispers, barely
audible.] Falsely murdered. I have been
falsely murdered.
[Enter Montano, Gratiano, and Iago. They have
delivered Cassio to the castle doctor and were already
on their way to see Othello.]
Emilia
[Ignoring Othello’s weird comment about
Cassio, she rushes to the bed and throws
back the curtains.] What was that noise?
Oh, my God. Sweet Desdemona! Oh, sweet
Emilia
[Staring daggers at her husband.] You dare
show your face here, husband? You should
feel really good about yourself since men
must lay their murders on your back.
Gratiano
What is the matter?
6
Shakespeare never lets a character die without letting him
or her have a final word. Desdemona, who appears to have
been dead already, is about to have hers.
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Emilia
William Shakespeare
[Still speaking to Iago.] Speak up if you’re
man enough. Othello tells me that you told
him Desdemona cheated. Tell me this is
false. Tell me you are not such an evil man!
Iago
[Refusing to look at Emilia.] I did what you
say.
Emilia
You are an odious liar! You wicked man!
That she was cheating, with Cassio?
Iago
Yes, with Cassio.
Emilia
[Shouting now.] I will not charm my
tongue! I am bound to speak! My mistress
had no one to speak for her! She lies
murdered in her bed, and you are to blame!
You villain!
Iago
[Grabs Emilia’s arm and growls at her.] Get
you home. You are obviously sick in the
head.
Emilia
[Jerking out of his grasp, she again
addresses the other men.] Gentlemen, do
not allow him to send me away. I must
speak.
[Speaking directly to Iago.] And I will never
go home to you again.
Othello
Emilia
Iago
[He has been silently watching this
exchange. He sits/falls on the bed and
yells.] Oh, she was a foul creature! Iago
knows that she shamed my marriage bed a
thousand times with Cassio! He confessed!
He even had the handkerchief that I had
given to Desdemona!
[Her jaw drops.] Did you speak of the
handkerchief?
[Grabs her again and whispers venomously
in her ear.] Be wise. Get you home.
[Manages to escape his grip again.] I will
not. I will speak!
[Iago draws a dagger from his belt and tries
to stab Emilia. She dodges, and Lodovico
and Gratiano grab Iago. They hold his arms
while she speaks to Othello.] Othello, you
have been fooled. That handkerchief that
you speak of: I found it after Desdemona
dropped it. I should have given it right back
to her, but my husband—your friend—had
begged me to steal it a hundred times. She
didn’t give it to Cassio. I gave it to my
husband, and he set you up.
[Whispers with clenched teeth.] You had
best stop. Charm your tongue.
Emilia
Remixed by Sarah Lovinggood
Iago
[Struggling against Lodovico and Gratiano.]
You lying whore!
Emilia
[Looks directly at Iago. She is stronger than
he thought she was.] I do not lie,
gentlemen.
Othello
[Almost a whisper.] Iago, my best friend,
you’ve tricked me?
[There is a skirmish. Othello runs at Iago, who twists
out of Lodovico and Gratiano’s grasp. Iago grabs his
dagger from the ground and drives it into Emilia’s chest.
He runs out of the room, chased by Gratiano. Emilia
falls on the bed next to Desdemona and dies. Othello
runs to a dresser and opens a drawer. He pulls out a
dagger and holds it to his own throat. Gratiano reenters the room with Iago, who has been bound with
rope. Cassio enters, too, limping. Gratiano steers Iago
toward Othello and forces him to turn his head toward
Othello’s eyes. Iago refuses to look.]
Othello
I can’t look this man in the eyes, either. He
is a devil.
[Instead of killing himself, he stabs Iago in the abdomen.
Lodovico takes the weapon away from Othello.]
Iago
[Finally looking at Othello.] I bleed sir, but
this is not a fatal wound.
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Othello
William Shakespeare
Othello
I didn’t mean to kill you. Dying, to me,
would be happiness. I want you to suffer.
Gratiano
[Holding Iago gruffly.] This man has
partially confessed his villainy. Is it true,
Othello, that you conspired to kill Cassio?
Othello
[Sighs and looks at Cassio.] Yes, it’s true.
Cassio
Sir, I never gave you cause.
Othello
I believe you, and I beg your forgiveness.
Will you ask Iago why he betrayed me?
Iago
You can ask me nothing. From this time
forth, I will never speak a word. [He falls
silent.]
Othello
Cassio, how did you come to have the
handkerchief?
Cassio
I found it in my room. I heard Iago tell
Gratiano that he put it in my room.
Lodovico
[Speaking authoritatively to Othello.] Sir,
you are hereby stripped of your title. You
must leave this room and come to the
dungeon. Cassio will take your spot as
general.
Lodovico
Remixed by Sarah Lovinggood
[Enraged, he drags Iago over to the bed and
makes him look at the bodies of
Desdemona, Othello, and Emilia.] You dog,
look on the tragic loading of this bed. This
is your own work. Your poisonous tongue
did all of this.
[Soldiers enter the room. He speaks to
them.] Let this room be sealed until the
bodies can be buried. This sight is too
heartbreaking.
[EXEUNT.]
[FIN7.]
[Speaking to Gratiano.] Get some soldiers
and take him away.
Othello
[Walks over to the bed and sits down next
to Desdemona’s body. He speaks to his
dead wife.] Darling, I kissed you before I
killed you. Now I too will die upon a kiss.
[Othello leans down and kisses Desdemona. As he sits
back up, he pulls a hidden dagger from his boot. He
stabs himself in the heart and falls on the bed next to
Desdemona. He dies instantly.]
Cassio
I feared that he might kill himself, but I
didn’t think he had a weapon.
7
Fin means “the end” in French.
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