When Othello addresses his wife before a crowd in this scene, his words are all of a financial nature. . Othello: Act 1, Scene 2 Translation. 1 – 2). Jealousy, or the “green-eyed monster” as Iago refers to it, is the main theme of Othello. "Othello Act II Summary and Analysis". Othello's insecurities mean that Cassio is promoted over Iago, but also lead Othello to hold Cassio at a distance. What is his view of life? Womanhood and Sexuality. Still, other characters, Othello, Bianca, and Roderigo, experience this feeling too. Othello Act II Summary. Once Iago inflames Othello's jealousy and sets the darker aspects of Othello's nature in motion, there is nothing Othello can do to stop it, since he cannot even admit that he has these darker traits. Analysis. He previously served as a theater studies lecturer at Stratford-upon Avon College in the United Kingdom. Summary. Iago, much more than anyone else in the play, is always aware of what his status and his chances are; he is sharp enough to know when his plans are going to work, and when he needs to change his approach. Othello’s insecurities surrounding his race ultimately lead to his belief that Desdemona is having an affair. Act 2, scene 2. The text is a rich tapestry of plot, character, poetry, and theme – elements which come together to form one of the Bard's most engaging tragedies. Cassio fights offstage with Roderigo, and comes forth, chasing him; Montano tries to hinder Cassio, but Cassio just ends up injuring him. Womanhood and Sexuality. "Honest" emerges as a key word in this scene, a constant reminder of the dramatic irony of Iago's dealings. This will help Iago hint that Desdemona and Cassio are together, which will enrage Othello. His use of the terms "purchase" and "profit" make it seem like Othello is trying to make his diction suitable for the crowd listening to him, and his tone is also less personal and more declarative. 3 Prominent Themes Found in William Shakespeare's 'Othello'. (II.iii.122). He is able to persuade Roderigo of Cassio and Desdemona's attachment by painting an innocent gesture as a sign of familiarity; yet, all the power that is in his words is in their interpretation, for Iago is also able to say everything and nothing at once, depending on the inclination of the hearer. He convinces Roderigo to attack Cassio that night, as he plans to visit mischief on both Othello and Cassio. Read Act 2, Scene 3 of Shakespeare's Othello, side-by-side with a translation into Modern English. Cassio mourns the demise of his "reputation" above all else. Montano tells what he knows, and Iago fills in the rest‹ - making sure to fictionalize his part. This theme is related to pride, as Othello's pride blinds hi… Like Act I, scene ii, the first scene of Act II begins with emphasis on the limitations of sight. Iago speaks to Roderigo, convincing him that Desdemona will stray from Othello, as she has already done with Cassio. Othello holds an important position of power and influence. "These fellows" that flatter for their own purposes "have some soul," Iago says (I.i.54). Once Othello is gone, Iago enters and joins Cassio on guard. He describes Desdemona as one who "excels the quirks of blazoning pens"; he calls her "divine Desdemona," but at the same time, wishes Othello much joy of her (II.i.62, 72). All the noise wakes Othello, who comes down to figure out what has happened. resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel. J. N. Smith. -Acts like he is upset by Othello thinking she is cheating -Appealing to both Desdemona and Othello and making them think he is loyal to them, while turning them against each other Jealousy. He asserts he is \"honorable\" even in murder.