Act+1+Summary

Act 1 Roderigo is talking to Iago. Iago complains that Othello has promoted Cassio as his lieutenant instead of him. He claims Cassio is an inexperienced soldier. Iago explains that he is plotting against Othello. He knows Othello has secretly married Desdemona, the daughter of an important senator, Brabantio. Iago plans to stir up trouble by telling Brabantio about Desdemona and Othello. Brabantio is in love with Desdemona. Iago and Roderigo go to Brabantio’s house. Roderigo wakes up Brabantio, who recognises him. Iago uses sexual imagery to get Brabantio to look for his daughter. Iago leaves to warn Othello that Brabantio is looking for him. Brabantio wakes his household and sends for armed officers to help him find Desdemona. Othello learns that he is called to the senate. Brabantio confronts Othello and accuses him of using witchcraft to ensnare Desdemona. Brabantio and Othello agree to allow the senate to decide on the issue. News of the Turkish fleet on route to attack the Venetian controlled Island of Cyprus reaches the Senate. Othello is given the job of leading the Venetian forces. Othello successfully defends himself, saying that his stories were the reason that Desdemona is with him. Desdemona confirms this herself to the surprise of Brabantio. It is agreed that Desdemona will go with Othello to Cyprus because she is not wanted at home by her father. Brabantio warns Othello that Desdemona has deceived her father and could do the same to him. Iago convinces Roderigo to help him in his plot against Othello, and that if he does he will finally get Desdemona. Iago talks to himself about his plan and the rumour that Othello has slept with his wife Emilia. Iago will make it seem as if Desdemona is cheating with Cassio.
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