English II Honors: Recent Episodes
Ms. Suzanne Ryan
Roderigo is set to attempt to kill Cassio, but fails when the time comes. Cassio, in turn, does stab Roderigo, but Iago finishes the deed, as he cannot allow Rodergio to live since Iago knew he planned to go to Desdemona and spill the beans about Iago's extortion. Iago also rushed in during the craziness of the moment and stabs Cassio. Iago admits that what happens that night will either make him or break him.
Tension builds as Othello calls Desdemona a whore. Desdemona has no idea why her husband, her lord, would call her that.
Roderigo has finally figured out that he has been tricked and finagled by Iago all this time, and threatens to confront Desdemona. Iago diffuses his anger and asks him to kill Cassio to get Cassio out of the picture.
See how Iago further destroys Othello's belief in Desdemona. See how Othello descends to the deepest of despair, to the point where he plots to murder his beloved Desdemona.
The handkerchief makes its way into the plot. Where has it gone? What will happen? We learn about the handkerchief's history and significance. Jealously is a major theme, now. Desdemona is surprised at Othello's behavior, but strikes it up to affairs of state and his being General. Emilia is not so forgiving and shows her negative take on men and how they use women. (frame this from a feminist perspective if you can) Cassio is told to wait, for Desdemona must continue to speak to Othello. However, he desperately wants to be back in good favor with the General. The action continues to rise!
Observe Iago as he manipulates Othello; intriguing him and enticing him so that Othello actually feels like he must beg Iago to "spill the beans" about what Iago had planned to tell him all along. Othello plays right into Iago's evil plan. Othello demands "ocular proof" of Desdemona's unfaithfulness. Iago has that area covered, too. Beware of jealousy...that green-eyed monser!
Act III is the scene of rising action. We will see conflict rise up and we will be sitting on the edges of our seats. See how Iago begins to spin his dreaded web!
Lots happens in the scene! Othello tells the tale of how Desdemona fell in love with him and Desdemona publicly declares her love for Othello. Iago plots and schemes with Roderigo on how Rodergio can "win" Desdemona back (as if he ever had her favor!). Iago also demonstrates just how manipulative and evil he is in his soliloquy.
Brabantio is so angry about Desdemona marrying Othello. Note the racism that is expressed. Note that Desdemona is treated like property: Othello has stolen her. He must have bewitched her.
This provides an introduction to our play, Othello, as well as the audio version so you can read along!