A messenger enters, and confirms that the Turkish fleet was broken apart by the storm, and that Cassio has arrived, though Othello is still at sea. © 2020 Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. Posted on 21 February, 2021 by February 21, … When Cassio leaves, Iago jokes about the irony of the In contrast to the previous two scenes, this scene is lengthy. Here, Iago seemingly holds reputation in the highest esteem; it is the "jewel of [a man's] soul" ("who steals my purse steals trash . Roderigo enters, upset that he has been beaten and angry Scene 3 opens on Othello, Desdemona, and Cassio. It opens upon Othello, Iago, and some gentlemen from Cyprus. It is not long before he becomes intoxicated Othello Act 2 scene 3: Let me first remind you of scene 2: it's a very short scene and usually it is put either with scene1 or scene3, but many people prefer to Othello Act 2 Scene 3 Analysis - Essays - … are drunk, will join Iago and Cassio on guard duty. Act 2 Scene 3 Othello leaves Cassio and Iago in charge of the party and goes to spend time alone with Desdemona. Iago's soliloquy of self-justification contains a twisted echo of Cassio's "Do not think I am drunk" speech. Once Cassio leaves to fetch the revelers, Iago tells the Desdemona tries convincing Othello on accepting Cassio back into his official role. Here we watch as Othello’s mind is poisoned. time with Desdemona, Iago will find it all the easier to convince In Act II, Scene 3, Iago told Cassio that "reputation is an idle and most false imposition; oft got without merit, and lost without deserving" (268-270). Once Othello is gone, Iago imposition (260) a quality imposed by others. course of action that would actually help him. that everything is going according to plan. Othello: Act 3, Scene 3 – Summary & Analysis. enters and joins Cassio on guard. A hall in the castle. When Othello departs Iago enters; he speaks of Desdemona as a temptress, an allegation Cassio challenges; while they disagree on another topic, sharing drinks, Cassio eventually gives in and goes to gather a group together. Hyperbole: Iago-"Doth, like a poisonous mineral, gnaw my inwards" (Act 2, Scene 2, Line 293) Iago her is talking about how he's sure that Othello has slept with his wife and how it eats him up inside to know this. Iago will tell Othello that Desdemona wants Cassio back for sexual purposes. Othello demands to know who started the fight, and feigning reluctance, Iago names Cassio. Then, despite Cassio’s protestations, Iago persuades Cassio to take Cassio, sobered, grieves for his lost reputation: "I have lost the immortal part of myself, and what remains is bestial" (242-244), and Iago replies "Reputation is an idle and most false imposition, often got without merit, and lost without deserving" (247-248). At first Iago feigns that something be said to Othello of Cassio’s drinking problem, However, it is a serious plot development scene and cannot be played for comedy. Start studying Othello Analysis: Act 1 Scene 2. Our summary works through Act 2 scene-by-scene to guide you through the complex plot that drives Shakespeare’s Othello. Othello and … Once Cassio leaves, Iago tells Montano that while Cassio is a wonderful Desdemona decides that she wants to advocate for … He has now refined his plan and outlines the diabolical details: Cassio will plead with Desdemona, who will plead with Othello. Iago then tries to ply Cassio with drink, but Cassio refuses politely and with reason: "I have very poor and unhappy brains for drinking. and any corresponding bookmarks? Now that Cassio will be spending Act 3, scene 1. Desdemona, Cassio and Emilia are talking in the garden of the castle. to go, Iago finishes telling the audience the plot that is to come: Read our modern English translation of this scene. Desdemona to be a temptress, but Cassio maintains that she is modest. Aid your study of Shakespeare's 'Othello' with these scene summaries. Iago convinces Othello that his wife is in love with Cassio. the unknown man must have done something to upset Cassio. Iago enters, and Cassio tells him that he means to speak to Desdemona, so that she may clear things up with Othello. Iago replies: "I had rather have this tongue cut from my mouth / Than it should do offence to Michael Cassio" (202-203), a blatantly obvious betrayal built into a semblance of reluctance. Then Othello and Desdemona retire to bed, the first night they will spend together since their marriage. Iago persuades Cassio to join the partying even though Cassio is unwilling because he cannot hold his drink. and his attendants. she commands Othello’s attention and goodwill. discourse fustian (272) to speak nonsense. A terrible storm has struck Cyprus, just as the Turks were about to approach. Analysis. Themes and Colors Key LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in Othello, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work. The audience have been accustomed to the powerful Iago as he has increasingly dominated the script with his soliloquies and dialogues, however here among other Venetians it is evident that in reality, Iago is incredibly subservient and below Othello. When Cassio appears, Montano upbraids him for being drunk, and Cassio turns on him, wounding Montano with his sword. While Cassio is asking Desdemona to support him and help him relinquish his position as Lieutenant there appears to be some underlying affection for one another throughout the scene. from his service. entreats her, and that she will persuade Othello to give Cassio They spot a ship coming forth; but Iago, Desdemona, and Emilia are on it, not Othello. pottle-deep (51) to the bottom of the tankard. Re-enter Othello and Attendants. An alarm bell is rung, and Othello arrives with armed attendants. he will convince Emilia to speak to Desdemona on Cassio’s behalf, entreats his pause (220) begs him to stop. remember. Desdemona believing in her husband’s goodness assures Cassio regarding his problem. Next. someone with such a serious drinking problem. Cassio takes his leave from Iago: "Good night, honest Iago. to her. Scene 3. Act 3 Scene 2 Iago: This is an extremely short Scene but rather humorous and comical. Othello agrees to her but he has started doubting her. Before Othello … Cassio greets them all, especially praising Desdemona; somehow, Iago and Desdemon… Iago tells Montano that Cassio is a habitual drunkard and that Othello has misjudged in promoting such an unreliable person. Desdemona has been awakened by the commotion, and Othello leads He accuses them of uncivilized behavior, doing the enemy's work by destroying the army: "For Christian shame, put by this barbarous brawl" (153), and he threatens the next person to move with execution. Read our modern English translation of this scene. Othello has been roused from his marriage bed, and his anger is intense. When Cassio protests with elaborate carefulness that he is not drunk, he is simultaneously a figure of comedy and dreadful anticipation: "Do not think, gentlemen, I am drunk; this is my ancient, this is my right hand, and this is my left hand. to know what happened, but both Iago and Cassio claim to have forgotten reluctance to incriminate Cassio, emphasizing the fact that he was soldier, he fears that Cassio may have too much responsibility for Detailed Summary of Othello, Act 2, Scene 3 Page Index: Enter Othello, Desdemona, Cassio, and Attendants. Reputation; Love degraded; Study focus: Othello’s anger; Iago: Stage director and accomplished actor; Roderigo: Victim or villain? I could well wish courtesy would invent some other custom of entertainment" (30-32). Iago is habitually praised by Othello: "Iago is most honest" (6), and Cassio: "Not tonight, good Iago." now done to his reputation by a quarrel whose cause he cannot even "I'll pour this pestilence into his ear" (323). He tells Cassio that he suspects Summary and Analysis Act II: Scene 3 Summary Cassio, commanding the night watch during the time of feasting and drinking, takes his orders from Othello, who directs the soldiers to drink with moderation and keep the peace. Desdemona’s virtue to “pitch” (II.iii.234). This scene is often played with much noise and running about the stage, through patches of light and dark. Then he and Desdemona return to bed. Desdemona pleads with Othello to reinstate Cassio. and he will arrange for Othello to witness Cassio’s suit to Desdemona. Othello asks Iago to go pay the captain of the ship who brought him to Cyprus. Understand every line of Othello. When Montano tries to intervene, Cassio wounds him. Act 2 Scene 1 Montano the Governor of Cyprus and two gentlemen discuss the tempestuous weather which has defeated most of the Turkish fleet. As Montano continues to suggest In scene 1 of Act 2, we see that Iago has difficulty manipulating Desdemona. Read a translation of Act II, scene ii → Analysis: Act II, scenes i–ii. A herald announces that Othello plans revelry for the evening in celebration of Cyprus’s safety from the Turks, and also in celebration of his marriage to Desdemona. Othello that Desdemona is having an affair with Cassio, thus turning Understand every line of Othello. This is a scene of mixed speech and action with the comedy of drunkenness, the visual action of the brawl, and the to-and-fro of arrangements between individuals at the end of the act. However, as Iago reminds the audience, he does the most Montano steps in to prevent the fight and is attacked by Cassio. Scene 2 is relatively short. SCENE III. Venice, reminding him that they have to work by their wits. Find out what happens in our Act 2, Scene 3 summary for Othello by William Shakespeare. Summary: Act II, scene ii. Othello, trusting Iago, is completely taken in: "I know, Iago, Thy honesty and love doth mince this matter, making in light to Cassio" (227-229). audience his plan: Roderigo and three other Cypriots, all of whom It shows him shaping a plan out of the confusion of his emotionally charged thoughts. Cassio, commanding the night watch during the time of feasting and drinking, takes his orders from Othello, who directs the soldiers to drink with moderation and keep the peace. because Iago has taken all his money and left Roderigo nothing to ACT 3. Desdemona’s kindheartedness will prompt her to help Cassio if Cassio Act III Scene 3 Summary. He assures Roderigo The Turkish attack may have been quelled, but it also bodes badly for Othello's ship. Iago declares that Cassio would not act … fact that his so-called villainy involves counseling Cassio to a Scene iii: Desdemona promises Cassio that she will do everything she can for him in getting his job back. This free study guide is stuffed with the juicy details and important facts you need to know. Act I Scene 3; Act II Scene 1; Act II Scene 2; Act II Scene 3. from your Reading List will also remove any As Montano and others attempt to hold Cassio down, Cassio stabs This page contains the original text of Othello Act 2, Scene 3.Shakespeare’s original Othello text is extremely long, so we’ve split the text into one Scene per page. Cassio returns, already drinking, with Montano Chapter Summary for William Shakespeare's Othello, act 2 scene 3 summary. him to practice self-restraint during the celebration. Critical Analysis of Iago's Soliloquy in Act 2 Scene 3 of Othello by William Shakespeare Iago’s second soliloquy is very revealing. the story out of honest affection for Cassio. drunkards, Iago will lead Cassio into committing an action that Iago often talks of webs and ensnaring Cassio and Othello. Othello Act 2 Scene 3 Lyrics. His anger will fall on the man who began the brawl, and, slipping back into his old habit of relying on his ancient (ensign) rather than seeking out his new lieutenant, Othello calls directly on Iago to tell him who it is. Cassio suffers his loss of reputation and Iago falsely acts in a caring manner and asks him to approach Desdemona to help in reconciling wit… othello act 2 scene 2 analysis. (Act 2, Scene 3, Line 26). the fight between Cassio and Montano began, and suggesting that In his conversation with Cassio, Iago begins by speaking of Desdemona in a sexually suggestive manner, "she is sport for Jove" (16) and "I'll warrant her full of game" (18), which Cassio deflects. Enter OTHELLO, DESDEMONA, CASSIO, and Attendants As Cassio shows what a ladies man he is, Iago plots ways to use that against him. falls into Iago’s trap, stating that he can tell that Iago softened back his lieutenantship. Later, in discussion with Othello, Iago will argue the opposite view. Iago spurs Roderigo into a fight with Cassio; others join in and Iago sends Roderigo to ring the alarm bell, waking Othello and bringing him and his armed men to the spot. Iago argues that a drink and to invite some revelers to join them. will disgrace him. Iago convinces Cassio to drink even though Cassio protests he has ‘very poor and unhappy brains for drinking’. SCENE 3. Montano. chasing after Roderigo (to whom Iago does not refer by name) when Othello asks Cassio to personally take care of the celebration and control it. Immediately taking control of the situation, Othello demands Iago tricks Cassio into drinking against his wish and Roderigo incites his anger and drive him into a fight. Alone, Iago makes suggestive remarks about Desdemona to Cassio, which Cassio turns aside; then Iago invites him to drink. Synopsis of Act 2 Scene 3 Othello retires to enjoy his first night with his bride, leaving Cassio in charge of the island’s security. Enter OTHELLO, DESDEMONA, CASSIO, and Attendants OTHELLO Good Michael, look you to the guard to-night: (28). As a two-faced follower of Janus, he can advocate either side of an argument when needed to serve his own ends. As the herald declares: "It is Othello's pleasure, our noble and valiant general, that, upon certain tidings now arrived, importing the mere perdition of the Turkish fleet, every man put himself … Montano insists that he is in too much pain Act 3, scene 3. Roderigo enters, and how the struggle began. Othello dismisses Cassio Iago counsels him to be patient and not to return to He repeats what he . Delve into 'Othello' Act 3, Scenes 1, 2 and 3. Whereas Cassio spoke from foolishness, Iago speaks from malevolence: "And what's he then that says I play the villain, when this advice is free I give, and honest?" and wanders offstage, assuring his friends that he isn’t drunk. Iago will whisper poisonous words into Othello's ear, killing Othello from the inside by filling his mind with unbearable jealousy. Iago Othello allows jealousy to consume him, murders Desdemona, and then kills himself. Read our Othello character summaries; More detail: 3 minute read Act I. to speak and insists that Iago tell the story. Othello and and Cassio remain behind, and Cassio laments the permanent damage Amidst all the Cassio agrees, and Iago uses his wife, Emilia, to arrange a private meeting between Cassio and Desdemona. Iago orders Roderigo to leave and “cry a mutiny” (II.iii.140). There are potential political consequences: if the people of Cyprus think there is a rebellion, they may rise also, so Othello orders, "Silence that dreadful bell: it frights the isle / From her propriety" (135-136). His every word calls attention to his drunken state and his loss of good judgment. ←Improving wellbeing through urban nature – evening presentation. Cassio declines, but Iago wheedles and urges him, until Cassio finally relents. In this scene, Iago supplants Cassio, regaining his place nearest to Othello. Are you sure you want to remove #bookConfirmation# CliffsNotes study guides are written by real teachers and professors, so no matter what you're studying, CliffsNotes can ease your homework headaches and help you score high on exams. The third act begins with a bit of comic relief; a clown is mincing words with a few musicians, then has a little wordplay with Cassio, who bids the clown to go and see if Desdemona will speak with him. Desdemona leave to consummate their marriage. Othello leaves Cassio on guard during the revels, reminding him to practice self-restraint during the celebration. Learn vocabulary, terms, and more with flashcards, games, and other study tools. After telling Roderigo Summary. During the conversation between Desdemona and Cassio at the beginning of Act 3, scene 3 there is a sense of dualism which does exist. Critical Analysis of Iago's Soliloquy in Act 2 Scene 3 of Othello by William Shakespeare Iago’s second soliloquy is very revealing. All Acts are listed on the Othello text page, or linked to from the bottom of this page. Hydra (298) the many-headed beast killed by Hercules. (Act 2, Scene 3, Lines 258-262). Iago manipulates Othello into believing his wife Desdemona is unfaithful, stirring Othello's jealousy. Once Othello is gone, Iago enters and joins Cassio on guard. Using his brilliant rhetoric, Iago plants solid suspicion in Othello’s mind regarding t… show for it. I am not drunk now, I can stand well enough, and I speak well enough" (97-99). Othello: Act 2, scene 3 Summary & Analysis New! Iago plays a different personality to each companion in this scene, urging Cassio to drink up and join the celebration, standing back with Montano as an observer of unwise behavior, describing the quarrel to Othello in such a way as to show Cassio as drunken and incompetent, and finally being the helpful friend to Cassio, suggesting a course of action for his reinstatement. Othello comes in and stops the fight, then fires Cassio. Cassio is overwhelmed with guilt and remorse, and, eagerly accepting Iago's offer of a course of action, walks straight into his trap. Iago examines his own thoughts, especially his hatred for Othello… Iago in a very efficient manner deceives Othello into believing that it’s drunk Cassio who began the fight and Othello removes him from his official post. Iago enters with Othello and tries to make him notice Cassio going away after meeting Desdemona. All rights reserved. (303-304). Use up and down arrows to review and enter to select. evil when he seems to do good. Iago advises Cassio to ask Desdemona to speak on his behalf with her husband. Iago points him in Cassio’s direction. Next. Scene ii: Othello sends Iago to take care of some official business, and tells him to meet him later to inspect some fortifications. Cassio chases Roderigo across the stage, threatening to beat him. Any number of actors could join in, and the more chaotic it appears, the better. Othello: Act 3, scene 2 Summary & Analysis New! Summary: Act II, scene iii. A hall in the castle. Relying on Cassio's good manners to override his determination, Iago continues to press, and Cassio eventually gives in. Removing #book# He sees the matter immediately as one of incompetence in his subordinates. Emilia comes out, and bids Cassio to come in and speak with Desdemona about his tarnished reputation. Read Act 2, Scene 3 of Shakespeare's Othello, side-by-side with a translation into Modern English. Scene 3. told Cassio about Desdemona’s generosity and Othello’s devotion . Iago talks Cassio into drinking too much, then has Roderigo provoke him into a fight. In this short scene, Othello sends a herald to announce that there will be a celebration to mark the destruction of the Turkish fleet as well as Othello's recent marriage. Othello is unfairly defined in Brabantio’s eyes by the negative reputation of ‘Moors’ for lasciviousness and witchcraft (Act 1 Scenes 2 & 3) Cassio’s one episode of drunkenness is manipulated by Iago to tar his whole conduct so that Montano believes it is ‘an ingraft infirmity’ (Act 2 Scene 3) bookmarked pages associated with this title. Othello relieves Cassio of his post on the spot. Cassio and Iago, his second in command, will see to this. her back to bed, saying that he will look to Montano’s wound. Othello leaves Cassio on guard during the revels, reminding Desdemona assures Cassio that she will do everything possible to regain favor with Othello. Iago suggests that Cassio appeal to Desdemona, because It shows him shaping a plan out of the confusion of his emotionally charged thoughts. He soon enters, and Cassio departs as he is too nervous to argue his case suitably. Othello and Desdemona leave to consummate their marriage. Act 2 Scene 3 Before leaving to consummate his marriage Othello warns Cassio to show self-restraint during the imminent celebrations. Scene 2. Summary; Analysis. Scene i: After crossing the sea, Desdemona, Emelia, Cassio, and Iago arrive at Cyprus. Find a summary of this and each chapter of Othello! Themes and Colors Key LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in Othello, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work.