In lines 64- 65, Iago compares husbands to oxen, whose job is to pull heavy loads. Make a tableau of this image, or draw it and keep it in your journal.
"The pity of it, Iago"- do you think that Iago is capable of feeling pity? Why or why not?
In line 97, Othello says that strangling a wife in bed "represents justice" How has the term 'justice' been redefined in the course of this play?
The physical blow: When Othello strikes Desdemona on stage, it's a shocking moment for the audience- or at least, it was considered shocking by 19th century theatre directors. Do you think it would be shocking today? Why or why not? Is it important to the story? Does violence ever, in your opinion, enhance art, or a story line? Give examples.
Othello's syntax: Othello's sentence structure in lines 243-54 is different to his way of speaking initially. Discuss how in groups of three (compare to act 1, scene 3, lines 127-69, for example) What does this tell you about his state of mind? Write two paragraphs about his change of language, giving as many examples as possible.
'The man whom passion could not shake" In those times, a lack of emotion was considered an asset in a man. Is that still true? Is that still a valuable quality in a leader? Why or why not?
Look at line 39. Why do you think Othello avoids answering Desdemona's direct questions?
Desdemona's response: Desdemona's response to Othello is infuriating to some in how completely submissive it seems, when judged by modern standards. However, given the social constraints of the time, her behavior was perfectly in keeping with that of a married Elizabethan woman. What is your opinion on it? Write a one page journal explaining why, and citing the text.
Desdemona and Emilia refer to Ldovico as a "proper man" what do they mean by this?
Compare Emilia and Desdemona's views on marriage and men. Is one more romanticized and one more practical? Discuss what each woman says, in detail. What difference does their social position make to their separate views.
Read scene 3, lines 82-99. Emilia, could be considered by some to be a feminist. Is this true, in your opinion? Why or why not?
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