Act 2 Quotes
Cards (8)
- "The divine Desdemona" Act 2 Scene 1 - Cassio
- Is he describing her as an idolised goddess or a whore?
- His attitude is quite gentleman like, however he may still be objectifying her in a superficial sense.
- Claiming Desdemona is perfect, no words can do her justice
- "As of her tongue she oft bestows me" Act 2 Scene 1 - Iago
- Claims as if she is lying and nattering
- Presents his wife as a nuisance and a burden
- Solidifies Iago's misogynistic views of women as he even displays these attitudes towards his own wife.
- "You rise to play and go to bed to work" Act 2 Scene 1 - Iago
- Suggestion that all women are prostitutes
- Drastic comparison
- Continuously focuses on the negatives of women
- Iago is the mouthpiece for stereotypical Venetian views against women
- "Well praised! How if she be black and witty?" Act 2 Scene 1 - Desdemona
- Desdemona equalises with Iago here.
- Partakes in the conversation about the position of women, which would be an unusual conversation for Desdemona to be having at this time.
- She is not squeamish.
- "But partly led to diet my revenge" Act 2 Scene 1 - Iago
- Only reference within the play that links to the rumoured affair Othello has with Emilia
- Jealousy of Iago displayed here - fear of being a cuckold.
- Is this the real reason why Iago manipulates this plan?
- "Zounds, if I once stir , or do but lift this arm" Act 2 Scene 3 - Othello
- The first major effect of Iago's plan is Othello's anger at his lieutenant Cassio
- Shakesperian outburst, direct and commanding.
- Foul and maybe even angry.
- Iago's response to this is calm and dignified, which fulfils his intended effect.
- "Honest Iago" Act 2 Scene 3 - Cassio
- Repeated throughput the play
- Juxtaposes his deceptive manner and intent
- Clear that Iago is clever and able to control different characters
- "I'll pour this pestilence into his ear" Act 2 Scene 3 - Iago
- Fatal epidemic disease, plague
- Contextual for the time
- A reference for poison, almost like feeding Othello lies