1. In a way, Iago is like all the ‘clerks’ the Wife of Bath complained
about who slander women in their books.
Where do we see Iago doing this—and provoking others to see women in
this light as well? Consider how he acts
to his wife, Emilia, and how he talks to others about Desdemona.
2. A truly adept liar doesn’t make things up, but bases his lies on truth
by clever distorting. Based on this
logic, does Cassio love Desdemona? Iago
claims he does, but does the play itself verify this information? Examine a scene where we see Cassio
interacting with Desdemona or with others who discuss her. What might Iago be basing his ‘information’
on?
3. What other motives does Iago give for hating Othello and plotting his
downfall? Does he have some
affection/loyalty to Roderigo? Has
Othello offended him? Does he ‘want’
something that only Othello—or Cassio—can prevent him from taking? Examine a scene which seems to answer (at
least partially) this question.
4. Once Cassio loses his position for drunkenness in Scene iii, he and
Iago have a discussion about reputation.
How does this scene show us the different ways both men view the
world—as well as understand the meaning of honor and soldierly values? Related to this, why does he agree to follow
Iago’s advice in the end?
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