Othello Act 2
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Communications
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Jan 9, 2024
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1)
Question 1
Iago's attitude towards women:
Iago's attitude towards women in general is quite cynical and derogatory. He speaks of women in a dismissive and objectifying manner, saying "You rise to play and go to bed to work" (Act 2, Scene 3). This
shows his general disdain for women and the belief that they are only good for pleasure and domestic duties.
Iago's attitude towards Desdemona:
Iago's attitude towards Desdemona is manipulative and deceitful. He suggests to Cassio that Desdemona
is merely using him to further her own agenda, saying "She is of so free, so kind, so apt, so blessed a disposition, she holds it a vice in her goodness not to do more than she is requested" (Act 2, Scene 3). This shows Iago's attempt to plant seeds of doubt and suspicion about Desdemona in Cassio's mind.
Cassio's attitude towards women:
Cassio's attitude towards women in general is more respectful and chivalrous. He speaks of women with admiration and reverence, saying "She is indeed perfection" in reference to Desdemona (Act 2, Scene 3).
This shows his high regard for women and his positive view of Desdemona in particular.
Cassio's attitude towards Desdemona:
Cassio's attitude towards Desdemona is one of genuine admiration and respect. He expresses his deep affection for Desdemona, calling her "perfection" and expressing concern for her well-being, as seen in his statement "I dare swear she is honest" (Act 2, Scene 3). This demonstrates Cassio's sincere and positive feelings towards Desdemona.
2)
Question 2
In Act 2 of "Othello" by William Shakespeare, the themes of honesty and dishonesty are intricately woven into the characters' interactions and the unfolding of the plot. Shakespeare conveys the theme of
honesty through the character of Desdemona, who embodies sincerity, faithfulness, and trust. Desdemona's unwavering love and honesty towards Othello are evident in her actions and words. Conversely, the theme of dishonesty is embodied by the character of Iago, whose manipulative and deceitful nature drives the central conflicts of the play. Iago's web of lies and scheming serves as a stark contrast to Desdemona's honesty, highlighting the destructive power of dishonesty.
3)
Question 3
Language play Textual Why is it important?
What is the effect on
evidence/Example
the reader?
Pun
"You shall hear more by midnight." the pun is on the word "hear," which sounds like "here." It creates a double meaning, suggesting that Othello
will learn more about the situation and also be physically present at
the scene of the action.
They can create moments of humor or wit, which can engage and amuse the reader, providing a break from the intensity of the play's themes.
Epigram "If she be black, and there to have a wit, she'll find a white that shall her blackness fit."
This epigram plays with
the idea of racial identity and intelligence, suggesting
that even if Desdemona is black, she will find a white man (referring to Cassio) who matches her intelligence.
They prompt the reader to consider the deeper meaning behind the words and the implications of the characters' statements.
Paradox
"I kissed thee ere I killed thee, no way but this, killing myself, to die upon a kiss."
This paradox reveals the conflicting emotions Othello experiences as he kills Desdemona out of love
and then regrets his actions. It showcases the tragic irony and the
internal struggle within
the character.
They contribute to the overall emotional depth and complexity of the play, adding layers of meaning and resonance to the reader's experience.
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