Act 1 Scene 1 lines 80 to end

Look at the rest of Act 1 Scene 1, from Brabantio's entry.

Language focused approach

Look at Iago's initial language to Brabantio. What types of sentences does he employ and to what effect? How would you describe the language he uses? Perhaps act out the exchange to get a sense of the tone and emotive aspects of the language.

What animal imagery does Iago employ? What is particularly striking about it? Try to think of more than one way of reading it in relation to Iago's attitude to Othello, to Brabantio and to other races.

How might one interpret Iago's thoughts after his speech when Brabantio leaves them to search for his daughter (lines 142 onwards)?

What is the significance of the Sagittary?

How is the term 'Moor' a loaded one? Why does nobody call Othello by his name in this section? Look at particular instances to support your answer.

Contextual approach

Read the passage with racism in mind. What does Shakespeare show the reader about how racial attitudes manifest themselves and can be manipulated?

Charivari is a European folk tradition that involves a big crowd gathering around the houses of newly-weds, playing music in raucous and almost riotous fashion. Does this tradition cast any light on this part of the drama and how an audience might have responded?

Look at your note on Iago and how he has been interpreted. Which reading of his character seems most plausible after the first scene?

Finally, look at your notes on tragedy. How does Othello seem to fit into the tragic tradition?