Study Questions

1. What is the setting in Act II Scene I?

- The setting in Act II Scene I takes place in a ship arriving to Cyprus.

2. Whom does Othello trust to accompany Desdemona on the trip to Cyprus?

- Othello trust Cassio to accompany Desdemona on the trip to Cyprus.

3. What dramatic function does the conversation between Montano and the two gentlemen serve?

- they talk about the storm and how no ship can survive it. Only othello's ship manages to survive.

4. Why does Iago carefully observe the way Cassio greets Desdemona?

- So that he can persuade Roderigo that Cassio and Desdemona are in love.

5. What information does Iago Use to spark Roderigo's interest in his plan to discredit Cassio?

- Iago tells Roderigo that Desdemona is getting tired of being with Othello.

6. What "proof" does Iago use to convince Roderigo that Cassio and Desdemona are lovers?

- Iago tells Roderigo that Cassio intention was to take Desdemona away from Othello.

7. Why does Iago instigate Roderigo to provoke Cassio to a fight?

- So that Cassio can lose his position from the lieutenancy.

8. Why does Iago Urge Cassio to drink to Othello?

- So that Cassio can get drunk and get into a fight.

9.What is the irony in the following quote: "[aside] O, you are well tuned now! But i'll set down the pegs that make this music, As honest as i am."

-It's saying that it wants to ruin your happy moment. enjoy it while it lasts.

10. Summerize what's going on in this Soliloquy.

- Iago is explaining his plan by telling Roderigo how Cassio loves Desdemona. He also explains that its the only way to take revange on Cassio for taking the position that he deserved and Othello for taking Desdemona.