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Raquel Rugani
Mr. Lee Hobbs
Introduction to Literature Engl 104: Section F
26 November 2007

“Othello” Act 5- Question 1: Summarize the events that lead to Iago’s unmasking.

Emilia tells Othello Cassio killed Roderigo. Othello finds out Cassio is not dead after he killed Desdemona. Othello admits to Emilia that he killed Desdemona because she “cheated” on him. Othello still believes she was guilty and Iago was telling the truth because of the handkerchief. Emilia interrupts and Iago tries stabbing her and succeeds. Othello stabs Iago and Iago refused to say anything. Lodovico found a letter in Roderigo’s pocket and it reveals all that has happened, the master plans of Iago. Othello then asks Cassio where he found the handkerchief. Cassio states that he found it in his chamber. Othello was going to be stripped of his power but stabs himself and falls on the bed where Desdemona is dead. Montano is in charge of Iago’s execution because of what he caused.

R. Hauser
English 104H Introduction to Literature

In your interpretation of the play, exactly what impels Othello to kill Desdemona? Jealousy? Desire for revenge? Excess idealism? A wish to be a public avenger who punishes "else she'll betray more men"?

In my interpretation of the play, I believe that a combination of disgust and jealousy impels Othello to kill Desdemona. It is evident that Othello is disgusted by actions he thinks Desdemona took when he says "she turned to folly, and she was a whore" (Kennedy 1031). Othello also claims "O, she was foul!" (Kennedy 1032)The meanings of both quotes are also enhanced through Othello's tone.

Along with disgust, Othello also shows signs of jealousy by saying "Tis pitiful. But yet Iago knows that she with Cassio hath the act of shame a thousand times committed. Cassio confessed it; And she did gratify his amorous works with that recognizance and pledge of love which I first gave her. I saw it in his hand; It was a handkerchief, an antique token my father gave my mother" (Kennedy 1033). This quote proves that Othello was disgusted Desdemona could easily give away such a valuable treasure and that he was jealous she gave it to his right hand man, Cassio.

Kennedy, X.J., and Dana Gioia, eds. Literature: An Introduction to Fiction, Poetry, Drama, and
Writing. 5th Compact ed. New York: Longman, 2007.

C Lazar
Intro to Literature 104H
Quiz Make-up
In this act, what circumstantial evidence is added to Othello’s case against Desdemona?
He hears Iago talk to Cassio about Bianca, which Othello thinks Cassio is talking about Desdemona (1007).

C Lazar
Intro to Literature 104H
Whom besides Othello does Iago deceive? What is Desdemona’s opinion about him? Emilia? Cassio (before Iago is found out)? To what would you attribute Iago’s success as a deceiver?
Iago deceives absolutely everyone in the play. Desdemona does not like Iago because of his slanderous ways towards women (963). Emilia knows that Iago does not love her anymore. Cassio believes that Iago is just trying to help him. Iago’s attributes to his deceiving success is being able to fake his love and friendship for Othello, Desdemona, Cassio, Roderigo, and more importantly Emilia his own wife.

Greg Anne
Professor Hobbs
English 104F
26 November 2007

In III, iv, 49-98, Emilia knows of Desdemona’s distress over the lost handkerchief. At this moment, how do you explain her failure to relieve Desdemona’s mind? Is Emilia aware of her husband’s villainy?

In Act III when Desdemonia explains to Emilia the great lose of her husband’s handkerchief Emilia does little to ease Desdemonia’s mind. The severity of her lose is explained to Emilia when Desdemonia states, “I would rather lose my purse” (997). With this knowledge Emilia goes on to prod Desdemonia’s worries by bringing up the possibility of Othello being jealous. This of course gains to the distress that Desdemonia was experiencing. When Othello enters and finds out what has happened Emilia does nothing to defend Desdemonia or help her in any way (997-999). After the fight, Iago and Emilia” team up” on Desdemonia. They explain to Desdemonia how jealous Othello seemed and how things didn’t look good (999-1001). This as well as her actions with Desdemonia alone makes me believe that Emilia not only knows of her husband’s villainy but is also in on it. She seems to be saying what is needed to make the plan work. Instead of being comforting and helpful Emilia further discomforts Desdemonia by putting ideas such as jealousy and anger in her mind. This further upsets Desdemonia knowing that her love could be possibly having these feelings.

J Betz
Intro to Lit. 104 H

How do you account for Barbantio’s dismay on learning of his daughter’s marriage, despite the fact that Desdemona has married a man so generally loved and admired?

Desdemona’s Father, Barbantio, is dismayed because Desdemona did not tell him about her getting married to Othello. Although Othello is so generally loved and admired he is still a black man in a time where interracial marriages were almost unheard of. This being true, Barbantio feels that Othello must have tricked Desdemona into marrying him using witchcraft and charm.

A. Lacey
Mr. Hobbs
ENGL 104.F Introduction to Literature
26 November 2007

Act III 1. Trace the steps by which Iago rouses Othello to suspicion. Is there anything n Othello’s character or circumstances that renders him particularly susceptible to Iago’s wiles?

The first step in the path to make Othello suspicious of Desdemona’s unfaithfulness is when Desdemona asks for Cassio to be given back his position (983). Iago says of Desdemona and Cassio spending time together; therefore, she must be cheating on Othello. Iago also mentions that Cassio was the go between for Othello and Desdemona before the marriage, implying that Cassio and Desdemona were together intimately before Othello and Desdemona were married. Iago continuously says he loves Othello so Othello fells he would not betray him (985). The final step is when Desdemona does not have the handkerchief from Othello’s mother and it ends up in Cassio’s possession.

Othello has some flaws that made him susceptible to Iago’s wiles. The first one is being in a powerful position. This makes him feel that no one would lie to him. This makes Othello to have the flaw of being very trusting of people who are close to him. This trait allows Othello to believe that Iago is telling the absolute truth. Since Othello has these flaws he easily believes everything that Iago tells him about Cassio and Desdemona.

J. Cowan
Mr. Lee Hobbs
ENGL104 Section F

For what major events does the merrymaking (scene II) give opportunity?

Although Scene II is merely a short proclamation by the Herald of Cyprus, much can be learned based on the few lines revealed. The Herald is proclaiming a feast to the people of Cyprus, based on the deeds Othello and his men have done to the Turkish fleet.

The most important news the Herald brings back to the people of Cyprus is that Othello and his crew served their enemy Turkish fleet with shear destruction. The people are called to celebration in every way imaginable because of the military triumph with bonfires, dancing, and feasting. In addition to the news of the defeat, the Herald is also proclaiming the news of the marriage between Othello and Desdemona. It is because of these two events that the people of Cyprus are celebrating the tremendous news.

Brittany A.
ENGL 104.F

What do the Cypriots think of Othello? Do their words (scene 1) make him seem to us a lesser man or a larger one?

The Cypriots look to Othello as a “worthy governor” (line 32) and look at him with tremendous respect. They make his seem like a larger man rather than a smaller one because they constantly boast about him, talking about how wonderful he is. When they get word from Cassio that the Turkish fleet had been defeated and depleted, they began to say how courageous he was and how gracious they were to him for ending the war (lines 21-24). While waiting for Othello’s ship to arrive, the Cypriots began to pray towards heaven asking that Othello be kept safe and that he has not been lost at sea. During this period of prayer and thereafter, they continue to praise Othello’s bravery until his ship finally arrives. Othello is welcomed with opened arms and he greets all those who were waiting for him.

Jessica B.
English 104H
Thesis and Chief Arguments of Burgress’ “An Asian Culture Looks at Shakespeare”

The thesis of Burgress’ “An Asian Look at Shakespeare” is, “Translation is not a matter of words only; it is a matter of making intelligible a whole culture”. One chief argument Burgress gives deals with the film Richard III being played in a Borneo Kampong. The tribe approved the costumes because they were similar to theirs. They also accepted the story because it was typical to their own history, and therefore also accepted Shakespeare as a great poet. Another chief argument involves the tragic novel The Heart of the Matter. The novel was read to Muslim children who found it comical because in their culture a man can have more than one wife.

Greg Anne
Professor Hobbs
English 104F
26 November 2007

What does the audience learn of Brabantio in this scene (Act V scene1) and why does Gratiano seem to be “relieved” about it?
In Act V of the play the audience learns of the death of Brabantio in the lines by Gratiano, “Poor desdemon! I am glad thy father’s dead” (1032). He then seems to be relieved to the fact that her father has died before he learned of his daughter’s death. The grief of such knowledge, “would make him do a desperate turn” according to Gratiano (1033). Such news to any father would tear him apart inside. It is better that Brabantio had not found out of such an occurrence.

Chris
English 104.H Intorduction To Literature
26 November 2007

How does Othello's mistaken belief that Cassio is slain affect the outcome of the play?

After the ambush, Iago ends up killing Cassio and Roderigo. Othello hears Cassio's cry and comes to see what is going on. He witnesses Iago killing Cassio. This changes the outcome of the play because Othello is now influenced to kill Desdemona. He says to Iago "Thou teachest me" (Page - 1002, scene 1, verse 34).

The play could of had many different endings. Othello could of solved all his problems somehow, he could of forgot about what was going on, or he could of married someone else. However, because of the event that happened, Othello's mind was in a different state of thought, which just wanted revenge. This is why the story has the endingit has.

Sara A.
ENGL 104.H Introduction to Literature

"Indicate a passage that you consider memorable for its poetry. Does the passage seem introduced for its own sake? Does it in any way advance the action of the play, express theme or demonstrate character?"

The scene where Othello comes to Desdemona’s bedside to kill her is a memorable one. The way Othello murders his wife demonstrates his character in many ways. First, he believes information given to him by Iago, which shows that Othello is very trusting of others. Othello doesn’t just walk in and kill her either. He speaks with her and before he kills her he says in Act V Scene II, line 49, “Peace, and be still!” He is almost “kind” about the murder.

Othello is also selfish though. His motives for killing Desdemona were for revenge of being humiliated and also because cheating was unforgivable in that time period. Not only is this passage a demonstration of Othello’s character but it also advances the actions in the play such as the truth coming out and the aggression other characters feel for each other. This scene wasn’t introduced for its own sake but plays an important part in the play.

Alyssa
ENGL104F

What prevents Othello from being moved by Desdemona's appeal?

At the beginning of Act IV scene 1, after Othello falls into a trance and wakes again Iago tells him Cassio visited, but he sent him away and told him to come back another time. When Cassio does return Iago questions him of Bianca, while Othello is behind a door listening to the whole conversation. Iago told him to prove that Cassio and Desdemona were together he would get Cassio to confess this. Othello believed what Cassio is saying deals with Desdemona because Iago told him he would get him to confess is love for Desdemona. Othello has also seen the handkerchief that he gave Desdemona.

Therefore Othello is not moved by Desdemona's appeal because of what he has heard from the talk between Cassio and Iago.

Lindsay Malloy
ENGL 104.F - Intro to Lit

What do you understand by Othello's calling himself "one that loved not wisely but too well"?

When Othello claimed to have not loved wisely but too well, he is speaking of Desdemona's supposed cheating on him. Because he believes Iago and Roderigo's false accusations of Desdemona and Cassio's relations, he considers himself unwise, though he loved her alot which led him to believe that he loved her well.

Jess Hammaker
English 104.f Writing about Literature

In II, iii, 221, Othello speaks of Iago's "honesty and love". How do you account for Othello being so totally decieved?

Othello believes that Iago is honest, loving, and caring about Othello's feelings. Othello believes that Iago is being a true friend and making sure Desdemona is not going to hurt Othello. In reality, Iago is out to get Othello because he gave Cassio the job that he wanted and believes that Othello had an affair with his wife, Emilia.

J Conrad
Professor Hobbs
ENGL 104.F Introduction to Literature
26 November 2007

What reasons does Iago give for his hatred of Othello?

In Shakespeare’s “Othello” Iago has a deep hatred for Othello. Iago is one of Othello’s men that Othello believes is loyal. Iago’s proves from his thoughts and asides to be very disloyal. The strong hatred that Iago feels for Othello comes from Iago’s irritation of Othello’s relationship with Desdemona, the power that Othello has as a military figure, and Iago’s belief that Othello has slept with his wife.

The uneasiness that Iago feels about Othello and Desdemona’s relationship is seen at the beginning of the play. Iago and Roderigo spot Othello with Desdemona and go and tell Desdemona’s father Barbantio. The fact that is a black Moor with power fuels Iago’s hatred even more. Iago tells yet another reason why he hates Othello in an aside at the end of act one. Iago says, “He’s done my office” which tells that Iago believes that Othello has slept with his wife.

L. George
English 104.H
Thesis and Chief Arguments of Ben Jonson’s “On His Friend and Rival William Shakespeare”

I chose Ben Jonson’s “On His Friend and Rival William Shakespeare”. After reading this short excerpt, I concluded the thesis was as follows: “There was ever more in him to be raised than to be pardoned” (1045). I feel this is the thesis, because throughout the paragraph Jonson emphasizes the good qualities and mentions few negative qualities in Shakespeare, simply to what this sentence is stating. Jonson’s view of Shakespeare included him to be “honest, and of an open and free nature, had an excellent phantasy, brave notions, and gentle expression” (1045). There were few things Shakespeare was known for that may have been looked down upon. One such example Jonson uses is in Shakespeare’s writing, he “never blotted out a line” (1045). This was Shakespeare’s biggest fall. The reader could conclude the chief argument Jonson chose to write about was simply what type of person Shakespeare was; although, some thought of Shakespeare as a negative influence, Jonson also saw the good in him. Nonetheless, Jonson wants the readers to know Shakespeare was an overall excellent man.

Adam Tercek

Mr. Lee Hobbs

ENGL104F Introduction to Literature
26 November 2007

In this act, what circumstantial evidence is added to Othello’s case against Desdemona?

A handkerchief, to most, an item one uses to blow their nose into. Although, to Othello and his wife Desdemona, it is an important token of their love to each other. To both of them it held an extraordinary amount of sentimental value. When Cassio was found with the very handkerchief that Othello gave Desdemona, he assumed that his wife was surely having an affair.

This assumption, Othello believed, was enough evidence to accuse his beloved Desdemona of cheating on him, and at the same time was reason enough to have Cassio killed. Othello was in such rage that he thought Cassio should hang before he can even confess.

B Sanders
27 November 2007
English 104

What is Othello’s position in society? How is he regarded by these who know him? By his words, when we first meet him in Scene ii, what traits of character does he manifest?

Othello is a Moor of Venice. Thus he is a black man but he says that he is of royal rank. As a result it is to be believed that he is somewhat important to the society itself. And he was somewhat of a famous and renowned captain and general. To others that knew who Othello was didn’t really like him as a person but they liked him for the things that he had done for the country and the people; except for Desdemona who loved him dearly and with all of her heart. Also some of the people were jealous of Othello because of the fact that he was a moor and that he had the love of Desdemona. Othello manifested the character traits such as courage, dignity, and insecurity. Also Othello was gullible to all effects and a pushover for bad advice.

M.Bobb
ENGL 104 Intro to Literature

In your view, does Othello's long speech in V, ii, 348-366 succeed in restoring his original dignity and nobility? Do you agree with Cassio (V, ii, 372) that Othello was "great of heart"?

I believe Othello's speech does bring a slight sense of dignity and nobility back into his character. Othello realizes what he has done and how he was tricked, but at the same time he is aware that Desdemona's death his own doing. He also tells the people looking on that they should speak of him as he is, and not to over glamorize the situation.

I agree with what Cassio states because Othello was a good person at heart who had a temporary lapse in judgment. Also for someone to say this after everything that was done to him shows that he truly meant what he was saying.

Jenna
Section F
Question 4. When Roderigo grows impatient with Iago, how does Iago make use of his fellow plotter's discontent?

Roderigo is frustrated. Roderiogo wants Desdemona to return all of the jewels that Iago was to give to her. Iago tells him that Cassio is being assigned to go to Otello's place. Iago lies and says Othello is being sent to Africa but really he is being sent back to Venice. Iago tells Roderigo he is just the man to get rid of Cassio.

C. Shoub
English 104. Section F
What does the conversation between Emilia and Desdemona tell us about the nature of each?

The conversation emphasizes Desdemona’s virtue and loyalty. She states that she would never be unfaithful even if it was to save the world (1020). Her innocence is highlighted against Othello’s unfair accusations. Emilia’s practicality comes forth when she makes the point that the world “is a great price for a small vice” (1020). Desdemona’s naivety is displayed when she does not think there is such a women, which would betray a husband. Emilia’s response shows that she understands that women’s needs and wants get overlooked by society. She voices, “And have not we affections, desires for sport, and frailty, as men have?” (1021). Emilia seems to recognize that the realities for being human are similar for men and women.

Works cited
Kennedy, X.J. and Dana Gioia.Literature:an
Introduction to Fiction, Poetry, Drama,
and Writing. 5th Compact Ed. New York:
Pearson-Longman, 2007.
Shakespeare. Othello, the Moor of Venice.
Kennedy 938-1038.

K.Olijnk

ENGL 104(H) Introduction to Literature

What motivates Iago to carry out his schemes? Do you find him a devil incarnate, a madman, or a rational human being?

I believe that Iago’s motives come from his desire to be more than Othello’s ancient. He wants to be a lieutenant, and he is extremely jealous and angry when the title is given to a younger and less experience man. Iago is more than a madman because if he were that he could have just secretively killed Cassio. He is most definitely not a rational human being, for all of his actions show that. What makes Iago a devils incarnate is the fact that he continues to do selfish, appalling, and deceitful acts, and yet never feels any guilt over any of them; not even after Rodergio, Desdemona, and his wife are all dead, and other are injured. He was willing to sacrifice anyone to eventually get what he wanted. In a way, at some points, it seems like all of his plans and schemes are more of a game to him, that he cannot stop playing. Another part of the jealousy is towards not only Cassio, but also Othello. He believes that Othello has slept with his wife, and Iago’s hatred for Othello grows from this belief.

Andrea Prescott
Eng 104H Introduction to Literature
Professor Hobbs
26 November 2007
"Thesis and Chief Arguments of Clare Asquth's Shakespeare's Language as a Hidden Political Code"
The thesis statement is Shakespeare's was the one sixteenth-century writer who, it appears never fell foul of the authorities. There are many arguments over his writings due to many hidden meanings throughout his work. The hidden meanings often related to what was going on politically and religiously in that time period.
In religion "low"and "dark" is often used to posses Protestantism as "high" and "fair" represent Catholicism the opposition of the two was referring to the reformation, he remains neutral, fair and tall can be corrupt,as dark and low can be noble.
This helps spectators and readers see the shadowed plot. Shakespeare needed a new method of writing to express a country's political and spiritual downfall without being punished for doing so.

L. Cicerchi

Mr. Lee Hobbs

Engl 104H Intro to Literature

28 November 2007

Thesis and Chief Arguments of W.H. Auden's "Iago as a Triumphant Villain"

The thesis in this short excerpt is the first sentence: “Any consideration of the Tragedy of Othello must be primarily occupied, not with its official hero but with its villain”. This is the thesis statement since it is the only sentence that tells us what the whole thing is going to be about. In this section, a main argument is how this could be a tragedy when the fall of Othello wasn’t from glory to misery and his death was not his fault or the gods. Another argument is that this is a very particular play, because Iago, the villain, never fails at what he wants done. He always gets what he wants throughout the story.

D. Dzurko
English 104 H

Thesis and Chief Arguments of Vaughan's "Black and White in Othello"

The thesis Ms. Vaughan's summary is "Throughout the play, Shakespeare exploits a discourse of racial difference that by 1604 had become ingrained in the English psyche." Her main arguments are generally that Othello is to have a deep effect on the audience both physically and emotionally. Throughout the play, it is shown that Othello is different, one of the "others." Visually, Othello obviously looks different from every other character as he is the only one of African descent.

A. Collier
English 104.H

5. What do you understand by Othello's calling himself "one that loved not wisely but too well?"

Othello loved Desdemona so much he could be driven to jealousy very easily. Othello said, "one that loved not wisely but too well." When he says this he is saying that he has not been trusting of Desdemona and therefore has not been very wise when making decisions. When he says, "but too well", he means he loved her so much even a hint of cheating on him would throw him over the edge of reason. He was not wise in his decision making when he kills Desdemona for the belief that she is cheating on him, which explains why he says, "one that loved not wisely." His love for her was so strong that after stabbing himself, he kissed her before he died as the reader sees on line 370. This shows that he regrets his decision making, so he must take his own life or suffer the consequences.

B. Kirk
English 104.H-Introduction to Literature
Question: Othello Act V
1) Summarize the events that lead to Iago’s unmasking.

The events that lead to Iago’s unmasking are in a sense all the lies he told. Throughout the entire play Iago wanted revenge. Iago created problems between Othello and Desdemona, and between Roderigo and Cassio. All the while he made himself look honest and just. He also made himself seem like everyone’s ally. After setting this all up, he is able to unmask himself and his plans, he has won his revenge no matter what happens. And ultimately he doesn’t care if he dies or is punished, because he has achieved his goal.

B. Kirk
English 104.H-Introduction to Literature
Question: Othello Act V
1) Summarize the events that lead to Iago’s unmasking.

The events that lead to Iago’s unmasking are in a sense all the lies he told. Throughout the entire play Iago wanted revenge. Iago created problems between Othello and Desdemona, and between Roderigo and Cassio. All the while he made himself look honest and just. He also made himself seem like everyone’s ally. After setting this all up, he is able to unmask himself and his plans, he has won his revenge no matter what happens. And ultimately he doesn’t care if he dies or is punished, because he has achieved his goal.

Alycia Gorlaski

English 104.F Introduction to Literature

What cruelty does Iago display toward Emilia? How well founded is his distrust of his wife’s fidelity?

In Act II Scene 1 Iago accuses his wife Emilia of many cruel things which play into his great distrust of her fidelity. He says in line 109 that when he wants to sleep “she puts her tongue little in her heart” and in her thoughts only. She is silent and behaved in public, but in the parlor noisy and brazen. She is wildcat in her domestic affairs and a deceiver in housekeeping. These indications show that she is reserved and well behaved around Iago, but when he is not around Emilia is wild and unfaithful. Her infidelity vividly shows through when Iago accuses Emilia of being a “huswife in bed” (busy in bed) as well as offending the devil in line 113.

C. Schirra
Engl104 F

How plausible do you find Bianca’s flinging the handkerchief at Cassio just when Othello is looking on? How important is the handkerchief in this play? What does it represent? What suggestions or hints do you find in it?

Bianca throwing the handkerchief is believable by anyone who was watching because she was angry and what she said was truthful. It was placed where she would find it and the time was perfect for Iago’s plan of making Othello angry. This handkerchief is extremely important because Othello’s parents used the handkerchief as a symbol of their loyalty in their marriage. As long as his mother kept the handkerchief, it meant she was loyal to his father.

The handkerchief is a symbol of their care. Othello finds the handkerchief to be a very important part of their relationship. When it is misplaced, he beings to believe she does not care as much because she does not care for the items he gives to her. This is the first part of the plotting which lead to the end of Othello and Desdemonda. The handkerchief is a part of foreshadowing of events to come.

Dana Buckley
Mr. Hobbs
English 104.H Introduction to Literature
27 November 2007
Response to General Question Number Eight

Question: Does the downfall of Othello proceed from any flaw in his nature, or his downfall entirely the work of Iago?

Answer: One of Othello’s flaws in his nature is that he doesn’t second guess what people tell him and takes it as truth without supporting evidence. A fine example of Othello’s flaw was the mind games by Iago throughout the play. Othello believes Iago’s mind games so much he loses complete trust of his wife and ends up killing her at the end of the play. Due to Othello’s behavior he is kicked out of being King of Venice having Cassio replace him. If Othello were to use his own reasonings and would have thought for himself, he would have still remained King and wouldn’t have killed his dearly devoted wife who loved him with all her heart.

Thesis and Chief Arguments of Bodkin's Lucifer in Shakespeare's Othello.

The main argument in Bodkin's Lucifer in Shakespeare's Othello is that the figure of the hero is concentrated on destruction of it's destined prey. The fact that a few figures in "Othello" are evil is what makes Bodkin's thesis. With all the hatred and violence and degradation, it is easy to see that the devil may be in these peoples souls.

One of the main arguments is that the devil is not a real being, but rather a "psychological archetype" that we come up with in our minds. If that is true, it is easy to see why people may see so many things the devil is doing in this play. These acts include Othello's murder of Desdemona, Iago's wounding of Cassio and stabbing of Rederigo, and ultimately withe Othello killing himself. These acts would not be committed by normal people, which is what Bodkin is trying to say. That is why Maud Bodkin believes there is "Lucifer in Shakespeare's Othello."

In this act, what scenes (or speeches) contain memorable dramatic irony?

In Act IV there were a number of scenes that contained dramatic irony, but the most memorable was early on the the act when Iago and Othello are speaking (1003-1004). At this point the two are discussing the fact that there should be no crime for a women to be in bed naked with another male, but only if nothing happens. Iago then speaks of if he was to give his wife a handkerchief it would be up to her what to do with it. Then suddenly he goes on to speak of how Cassio told him that he slept with Desdemona. This displays dramatic irony because we (the audience) know what Iago plans are, but neither do Othello nor Cassio

JM
Eng104
In your interpretation of the play, exactly what impels Othello to kill Desdemona? Jealousy? Desire for revenge? Excess idealism? A wish to be a public avenge who punishes, “else she’ll betray more men”

I think the reason he killed Desdemona was a personal thing. I believe he did it out of anger and revenge. He loved her so much and when he heard the stories from Iago he was deeply hurt and extremely irate. I think he said that he had to kill her so she wouldn’t go betray other men just as a cover up and although it might have been one of the reasons, it was not what drove him to murder. Othello kisses Desdemona twice as she dies and then once more when he finds out the truth and kills himself because he loved her and realized he could not live with himself.

Amanda O’Brien
Mr. Lee Hobbs
ENGL104H: Introduction to Literature
(M-W-F 3:10 P.M.)
28 November 2007

General Question No. 7
Does the play contain any tragic recognition—as discussed on pages 884-85, a moment of terrible enlightenment, a “realization of the unthinkable”?

This play does contain much tragic recognition. Right after Desdemona and Othello announced their marriage, Iago planned to convince Othello of her adultery. Even though it wasn’t true, it is still considered recognition because Othello was convinced, surprised, and devastated.

Another recognition is when he found out that all the accusations he made against Desdemona were false, but it was too late, he had already killed her. He discovers what he had done was a mistake. One last recognition is when Emilia finally sees the true identity of her husband Iago—a lying, in-direct murder. When she tries to preach that Iago is a liar, he kills her.

Amanda O’Brien
Mr. Lee Hobbs
ENGL104H: Introduction to Literature
(M-W-F 3:10 P.M.)
28 November 2007

General Question No. 7
Does the play contain any tragic recognition—as discussed on pages 884-85, a moment of terrible enlightenment, a “realization of the unthinkable”?

This play does contain much tragic recognition. Right after Desdemona and Othello announced their marriage, Iago planned to convince Othello of her adultery. Even though it wasn’t true, it is still considered recognition because Othello was convinced, surprised, and devastated.

Another recognition is when he found out that all the accusations he made against Desdemona were false, but it was too late, he had already killed her. He discovers what he had done was a mistake. One last recognition is when Emilia finally sees the true identity of her husband Iago—a lying, in-direct murder. When she tries to preach that Iago is a liar, he kills her.

K. Weidlich

ENGL104H. Introduction to Literature

MWF 3:00PM

What is Iago's motive in stabbing Roderigo?

In Act V, Scene I, a triangle is formed between Iago, Roderigo, and Cassio. The sequence of events first occurs when Iago decides to stab Roderigo. However, Iago had a motive to this. When he stabbed Roderigo, he did not kill him. He thought that if he was only wounded, Roderigo and Cassio would end up battling each other once Cassio enered the picture. This would give Iago the chance to swindle gold and jewels from Roderigo and gve them to Desdemona as gifts. Afterwards, he played it off as if he had nothing to do with the encounter.

Works Cited

Kennedy, X.J. and Dana Giola, eds. Literature: An Introduction to Fiction, Poetry, Drama, and
Writing. Ed X.J. Kennedy and Dana Giola. 5th Compact ed. New York: Longman, 2007.

Shakespeare, William. "Othello, The Moor of Venice". Kennedy 938.

What does the audience learn of Barbantio in this scene and why does Graziano seem to be relieved about it?

We learn that Barbantio is dead. I believe that Gratiano shows a sign of relief because Barbantio wasn't alive to see his daughter come to a terrible end. Gratiano knew that this would turn Barbantio upside down if he was alive to see such

"Poor Desdemon! I am glad thy father's dead. Thy match was mortal to him, and pure grief. Did he live now, this sight would make him do a desperate turn" --Gratiano

K. Bradley
Mr. Hobbs
ENGL 104.F Introduction to Literature
28 November 2007

Act I Question 7: By what strategy does Iago enlist Roderigo in his plot against the Moor? In what lines do we learn Iago’s true feelings toward Roderigo?

Iago gets Roderigo involved in his plan by using deceitful tactics. He knows of Roderigo’s love for Desdemona and convinces him that if they rid her of Othello, then she will be his. Later in Act I, we learn of Iago’s true reasoning for involving Roderigo. He calls him a fool and says he would not be wasting his time if he knew he would not be getting anything out of him. He tells the reader of his real plan at the very end of Act I, beginning on line 362. He states that he is not really helping Roderigo get Desdemona, but he is using Roderigo to get to her and Othello.

C. Carley
ENGL 104F Intro to Literature
"What is Iago's motive in stabbing Roderigo?"

Iago was the villain in “Othello, the Moor of Veinice.” This is one of many motives behind his stabbing of Roderigo. Iago was always out to protect himself and his interests. As a result, to ensure that no one found out about what he was doing he manipulated those around him. Rodergio was the only one who knew anything about Iago’s hatred of Othello, as Iago had told him, “I follow him to serve my turn upon him” in line 44 on page 940 (Kennedy). All the other characters in the play were under the mistaken illusion that Iago was a faithful follower of Othello.

Iago was also afraid that Roderigo would discover that Desdemona was not receiving the gifts he had offered to her. If Roderigo had discovered the truth that Iago was pocketing the gifts for his beloved he would certainly turn him in to Othello, and all of Iago’s dirty deeds would be undone. Iago also knew that he could not depend on Rodergio to remain a part of his evil plan. On page 979 he had to convince Rodergio to stay and pursue Desdemona after Roderigo said, “I do not follow here in chase… my money is almost spent…with no money at all, and little more wit, return again to Venice” in lines 316-320 (Kennedy).

In stabbing Roderigo it seemed that all of Iago’s problems would be solved. He could blame Roderigo for attempting to take Cassio’s life, and rid himself of the only person who knew of his plan to take down Othello. Unfortunately for Iago, Emilia had placed the pieces of the story together, and would bring his actions to light.

J. Carter
English 104 (F) Writing About Literature

How does Othello’s mistaken belief that Cassio is slain (V,i,27-34) affect the outcome of the play?

When Othello hears Cassio scream, “I am maimed forever. Help ho! Murder! Murder!”, Othello believed that Iago had taken revenge and murdered Cassio (V,i,27). From this point on, Othello felt enraged and felt that he should take revenge too. He then trusted that Iago was a great and noble friend and that in order to carry out this revenge he would have to kill Desdemona. Iago set himself up to be such a true and loyal friend throughout the whole play. When Othello found out that Iago even killed his enemy for him his trust is undeniably strong.

This affects the final outcome of the play in that Othello listened to nobody. When Desdemona tries to tell Othello that she did nothing wrong, he didn’t even think twice about the fact that she is lying to him. Othello does kill his loving wife and eventually himself because of the great betrayal and mistrust he felt towards the people and the situations that surrounded him. Othello was mislead his misinterpretation of Cassio’s death was the final straw in Othello’s ultimate fate.

Brooke Z.
English 104.H- Introduction to Literature

Thesis and Chief Arguments of Kennedy's "Breaking the Language Barrier."

Shakespearean literature usually seems very complex and difficult for most people the first time they look at a piece of work. This is mostly because the English language that Shakespeare used now differs somewhat from the English that is used today. This excerpt explains how even though Shakespeare’s work can seem very complex and difficult; it really is not difficult if we would put the time and effort into learning it.

The excerpt also states ways that can make this task easier. This includes reading the complete work more than once, listening to a recording, and watching a theatrical performance either in person or recorded. By watching or listening to the work it usually makes it easier to grasp. One must also “immerse themselves” in the text; this will make it easier to thoroughly understand. After each time of reading a Shakespearean work, it is almost certain that one will understand more and more because this type of language is more familiar to the reader.

K. Weidlich

ENGL104H. Introduction to Literature

MWF 3:00PM

Act IV, Question 6: In this act, what scenes (or speeches) contain memorable dramatic irony?

Act IV contains a few scenes which contain dramatic irony. The first is within scene I. Iago and Othello are carrying on conversation between each other. When Iago speaks of relations with a woman and "lying on her", this causes Othello to faint. They claim Othello fell into an epilepsy. Another part of scene I would be when Othello speaks with Cassio. Supposidly, Desdemona had an affair with him. Another dramatic irony scene would be in scene II. Othello approaches Desdemona on the fact of her being a whore and having affairs. But it turned out she was clueless as to what he was speaking of.

Work Cited

Kennedy, X.J. and Dana Giola, eds. Literature: An Introduction to Fiction, Poetry, Drama, and
Writing. Ed X.J. Kennedy and Dana Giola. 5th Compact ed. New York: Longman, 2007.

Shakespeare, William. "Othello,the Moor of Venice". Kennedy 938.

4. In the introduction to his edition of the play In the Complete Signet Classis Shakespeare, Alvin Kernan remarks: “Othello is probably the most neatly, more formally constructed of Shakespeare’s plays. Every character is, for example, balanced by another similar or contrasting character. Desdemona is balanced by her opposite, Iago; love and concern for others at one end of the scale, hatred and concern for self at the other.” Besides Desdemona and Iago, what other pairs of characters strike balances?
Cassio, like Desdemona, is balanced by Iago in Shakespeare’s Othello. Cassio, regardless of his relations with Bianca, is a noble military man. He is a more experienced lieutenant than Iago, which is why he is promoted by Othello in the first place. He is also significantly more trustworthy than Iago, who is continually deceitful towards Othello. Iago tells lies to the Moor on numerous occasions because he is jealous of Cassio’s position. It is ironic that even though Cassio is the more honorable of the two, Othello feels compelled to listen to Iago.
Desdemona strikes a contrasting balance with Bianca in addition to her balance with Iago. Desdemona remains faithful to Othello throughout the entire drama (even though he does not think so). Bianca, however, has sexual morals opposite to those of Desdemona. She seeks sexual relations with Cassio even though she is not married to him. For the time period in which Shakespeare’s play was written, Bianca’s actions would have been greatly frowned upon. It seems unfair that Desdemona always acted morally but is condemned in the end nonetheless.

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*NOTE* The deadline for this assignment has now passed. Comments are no longer being accepted for this exercise/assignment.

W. Fulton
Mr. Lee Hobbs
Intro to Lit Engl.104
26 November 2007

#3: How essential to the play is the fact that Othello is a black man, a moor, and not a native of Venice?

The fact that Othello is not a native of Venice and a black man is essential to the play. From the very first act the fact that Othello is a black man is a major source of conflict. In act one, scene two, Desdemona's father is infuriated at the idea of his daughter marrying a black man. He even goes as far as to say on page 947 that Othello perhaps used "black" magic in order to make her love him. One of the underlying tones of the play is that of racial intolerance and without Othello being a black man, the message would not come across as strongly.