Othello

(II, i, 176-178, p.71)

IAGO (To himself)

He takes her by the hand. Yes, very good, whisper to her! With

This little web, I’ll catch a fly as big as Cassio. Yes,

Smile at her, go ahead! I’ll catch you in your own flirtation.

Character Intent: Iago is definitely speaking these lines for one clear reason. Iago wants to manipulate Cassio and get him close to Desdemona therefore Othello could see this occur and become angered. Iago knows that Cassio is a very flirtatious person and therefore, Iago’s evil deed might be a very easy task to accomplish. Iago uses the metaphor of the fly and the spider web to symbolize Cassio (fly) getting caught in the web (getting caught in Iago’s manipulation).

Writer Intent: Shakespeare uses these lines in the dialogue to show Iago’s sarcasm about the situation occurring. Shakespeare also has Iago speak to himself in this part of the dialogue to show the insanity and sickness that Iago has built up inside, just aching to be released. Shakespeare also puts this dialogue into the story to show how courteous and respectful Cassio really is to Desdemona. And by seeing this, Shakespeare had the perfect opportunity to let Iago’s plans unfold.

Behavior: The following lines should be said very dementedly by Iago. He should read the lines very slowly and creepy to show how passionate Iago is in wanting to achieve his goal of destroying Othello.

(II, i, 197-201, p.73)

OTHELLO

If I were to die right now, I would die perfectly happy; for I’m afraid

I am so splendidly content that I won’t have another joy like this one

for the rest of my life.

Character Intent: Othello spoke these lines in the dialogue to show the only thing he cares about. Othello shows that he cares about and loves Desdemona. He really puts his point across to everyone by saying that even if death struck him down at that very moment, he would die happy since he had the chance to see the love of his life, Desdemona. Othello makes it clear that even after his hellish fleet, the voyage would not be over until Othello saw his beautiful bride.

Writer Intent: Shakespeare puts these lines in the story because they show a really strong meaning. This line reinforces everyone that Othello and Desdemona are in love with each other. Shakespeare shows the deep relationship between Othello and Desdemona to show how much they truly care and love each other. After hearing these lines, Shakespeare wants the audience and the groundlings to really start and love the characters of Othello and Desdemona therefore he can throw Iago into the plot and start the manipulation.

Behavior: Othello should deliver these lines with as much love, courtesy, and sincerity as possible towards Desdemona. Othello should be very sweet and charming also. The audience should realize how respectful and loving Othello is towards Desdemona.

(II, i, 210-212, p.73)

IAGO (To himself)