Exploring Act 2, Scene 1 of Othello

English

In 'Othello', pupils learn about the conventions of a tragic hero, which allows them to judge whether the protagonist is more a victim of his own hamartia or rather of external pressures and a racist society. In 'Macbeth: A Tragic  Hero', pupils evaluate whether Macbeth's downfall is caused by his own hubris or whether Lady Macbeth and wider society can be blamed. 

In 'The Language of Protest', pupils take inspiration from protest poetry and speeches, to write an opinion article. In 'Othello', pupils use their argumentative writing skills to compose letters in defense of Othello and to write speeches campaigning for racial equality. 

'Othello'

Historic or outdated representations of people that may portray inequality or injustice.

Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

Depiction or discussion of famine, disease, natural disasters.

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

Depiction or discussion of violence or fighting, including threats of violence or the aftermath of violence.

In Act 2 Scene 1 of 'Othello', what occurs in Cyprus that destroys the Turkish fleet?

Cassio and Othello's division through Iago's manipulation

Look at this quote from Act 2 Scene 1 of 'Othello': ''for they were parted With foul and violent tempest.'' What does this quote foreshadow?

it shows Iago plotting in secret, showing him as a Machiavellian villain

it shows Iago plotting in secret, showing him as shy

it shows Iago speaking openly, showing him as boldly rebellious

In 'Othello', why is it significant that Iago talks of his scheme in an aside?

Iago will trap the characters mentally using his manipulative schemes.

Iago will use the smallest pieces of evidence to suit his manipulations.

''With as little a web as this will I ensnare as great a fly as Cassio.'' What does this quote from Act 2 Scene 1 of 'Othello' suggest?

Whilst Venice represents order and tradition, Cyprus represents wilderness 

Whilst Venice represents wilderness, Cyprus represents order and tradition

Whilst Venice represents the patriarchy, Cyprus represents war

In Act 2 Scene 1 of 'Othello', why is the location change to Cyprus significant? 

That Othello's mind will soon be trapped in the same turbulence 

What could the storm in Act 2 Scene 1 of 'Othello' symbolise about the later events to come?

Desdemona and Othello are planning their honeymoon.

Brabantio has ordered for Othello to be killed.

What do we learn in Act 1 Scene 3 of Shakespeare's 'Othello'?

What does Othello say he is skilled at in Act 1 Scene 3 of 'Othello'?

With 'Othello' in mind, complete the sentence: Whilst Iago views Othello as __________, Othello presents himself as __________.

To propose to Desdemona because he has loved her for many years.

To make Othello believe Desdemona has had an affair with Cassio

To make Desdemona believe Othello has been unfaithful.

In 'Othello', what is Iago's scheme against Othello?

because he believes Othello ''is of a free and open nature''

because he believes Cassio is a handsome man 

because he believes he is the master of trickery

In 'Othello', why does Iago believe his scheme will be successful?

''The general'' it shows they trust his leadership skills

''The Moor'' it shows they view him as an outsider

''Traitor'' it shows they do not trust him

What epithet do other characters use for Othello throughout the play 'Othello' and why is it important? 

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

Adult supervision required

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Exploring Act 2, Scene 1 of Othello

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.