Othello Act II Scene I Study Guide

What news do we get of the Turkish Fleet?

• The fleet was victorious.

• The fleet was destroyed.

• The fleet retreated.

• The fleet was delayed.

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At this point, what is Cassio’s hope?

• He hopes to be promoted.

• He hopes Othello will make it through the storm safely.

• He hopes to win Desdemona's love.

• He hopes to return home soon.

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 Although they all seem to be enjoying themselves on the dock with Iago’s cynical comments of women, we see that Iago’s fierce mood has not abated.  What does he observe and what does he conclude?

• Women are always honest and loyal.

• Women are unpredictable and mysterious.

• All women cheat and are up to something.

• Women are the backbone of society.

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   It is clear that Iago views Othello as “different” and thinks that eventually Desdemona will too.  Why does Iago think Desdemona will lose her love for Othello?

• Othello is too busy with his duties.

• Othello is old and she will want a younger man.

• Othello is not wealthy enough.

• Othello is too controlling.

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Some critics make the point that Othello is an outsider; and certainly, Brabantio, Iago and others see him as that.  To be an outsider, though, one must feel apart from society. Is there any indication, so far, that Othello feels like an outsider?

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 Iago tells Roderigo that because of Cassio’s youth and good looks Desdemona will look to Cassio when she gets tired of Othello.  Is Iago saying all this just to ensnare Roderigo or do you think he believes that Desdemona will be unfaithful to Othello?

• He really thinks Desdemona will be unfaithful to Othello

• He is trying to manipulate Roderigo

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Iago accuses Cassio of putting on a false appearance to gain his own ends.  Why is this accusation an example of irony?

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In Iago’s soliloquy at the end of this scene we again see into his mind and, unlike the times he speaks with others, he has no reason to lie.  In this soliloquy what does he believe about

a) Cassio and Desdemona

b) Othello and Desdemona

c) his own feelings for Desdemona

d) his suspicions of Cassio? 

e) How does he plan to discredit Cassio?

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BONUS: What is Iago's general view of women as expressed in this scene?

• He respects and admires them.

• He believes they are deceitful and untrustworthy.

• He thinks they are superior to men.

• He is indifferent to them.

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BONUS: How does Iago plan to use Roderigo in his scheme against Othello?

• By making him a messenger.

• By convincing him to attack Cassio.

• By using him to spread rumors.

• By having him steal from Othello.

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