Act One Summary And Independent S

Othello Act One Summary and Independent Study task Act OneShakespeare sets the play in Venice when it was one of the most powerful and civilised states in Christian Europe. Othello, Venice’s most trusted and respected general has eloped with Venetian Senator Brabantio’s daughter. We meet Iago, Othello’s ensign, who declares his hatred for the Moor for promoting Cassio, a Florentine as his lieutenant, and his determination to seek revenge. He informs Desdemona’s father, Brabantio, of her marriage to Othello and incites great rage in him. News reaches Venice that the Turks are about to attack Cyprus and the Duke sends for Othello. Before the Duke, Brabantio accuses Othello of seducing his daughter by witchcraft, but Othello tells his version of their love affair, and Desdemona who has been sent for, backs him up unprompted. Brabantio’s complaints are ignored, and Othello prepares to depart for Cyprus immediately, leaving Iago and his wife, Emilia to escort Desdemona there. Groups of four: Choose one question each to answer as fully as possible.

1. Discuss Iago's motive for planning Othello's ruin. 2. Discuss how irony operates in Act One Give three examples. 3. Discuss the use of the theme of appearance v reality or ‘seeming and being’ in Act One 4. Discuss the use of black/white and darkness/light motifs throughout the play.