act 5

"I am not sorry neither. I'd have thee live; For in my sense, 'tis happiness to die." (285-287).

This point comes up frequently in oldern literature. Once Othello learned the truth, he wanted to end his misery in this twisted world. Also, if he died, he would be with his wife. He thinks that this world is so miserable that it would be the proper torture for Iago.

reprobation - damnation
pernicious - deadly; fatal

4.2 4.3

"Ah, Desdemon! Away! Away! Away!" (4.2.40).

I chose this quote because it demonstrates Othello's stubborness. No matter what Desdemona says, Othello does not believe it. This quote also shows Iago's cleverness because he was able to change Othello in this way.

harlotry - female

fopped - duped

4.1.

"Do it not with poison. Strangle her in her bed, even the bed she hath contaminated. Good, good! The justice of it pleases." (4.1.209-211)

I chose this quote for two reasons. First off, it foreshadows how Othello is going to kill Desdemona, and it also is on the cover of the book. It must be a very significant point in the plot. Secondly, this quote demonstrates how much Othello has changed that he would even listen to Iago. He is the head general, and he should not let others influence his actions.

fitchew - polecat; strong smelling creature

wanton –done, shown, used, etc., maliciously or unjustifiably

3.4

"Made demonstrable here in Cyprus to him, Hath puddled his clear spirits." (3.4.142-143)

This quote relates to the theme of both Othello and the city of Cyprus being torn between good and evil. There is a clear connection between Othello and Cyprus. When Othello is in Cyprus, he is sometimes his repected self and sometimes a twisted man corrupted by jealousy.

beshrew –verb (used with object)to curse; invoke evil upon.

perdition -noun- a state of final spiritual ruin; loss of the soul; damnation.

3.1 - 3.3

"By heaven, I'll know thy thoughts!" (3.3.162)

I think this quote is the turning point in the plot. Iago has finally poked a hole in Othello and got him into questioning Cassio's honesty as his second in command. From this point on, Othello is filled with envy toward Cassio and believes Cassio is having affairs with his wife. Near the end of the scene, he even orders for Cassio's death.

bounteous – adjective. giving or disposed to give freely; generous; liberal.

solicitor –noun. an officer having charge of the legal business of a city, town, etc.

2.1 - 2.3

"And bring him jump when he may Cassio find soliciting his wife. Ay, that's the way! Dull not device by coldness and delay." (2.3. 386-388)

This quote relates to the recurring theme of the characters being who they seem to be. Iago fakes being a loyal and honest man around the rest of the characters, but when he speaks in soliloquy, he reveals his true self. He is a very manipulative person that holds respect for none. Iago is extremely intelligent in his ways.

enmesh - verb (used with object) to catch, as in a net; entangle
dilatory - adjective tending to delay or procrastinate; slow; tardy.

act 2 scene 1

"Sir, would she give you so much of her lips as of her tongue she oft bestows on me, you would have enough."(2.1. 100)

This quote supports the theme of Iago's evilness. He tries to persuae Cassio to sleep with Desdemona so Othello dislikes him and puts Iago as second in command.

How does Iago plan to become second in command?