Exploring Iago from ‘Othello’ as a Machiavellian villain

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Historic or outdated representations of people that may portray inequality or injustice.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 violence or fighting, including threats of violence or the aftermath of violence.

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

someone who gets what they want in cunning, ruthless and immoral ways

someone who repents for their wrongdoings

someone who is in alliance with the devil

Make Desdemona believe Othello has been unfaithful with his wife, Emilia

Make Othello believe Desdemona has been unfaithful with Cassio

Separate Othello and Desdemona by pretending there is a crisis in Cyprus

What does Iago scheme to do in Act 1 Scene 3 of 'Othello'?

a monologue reveals he is trying to persuade others to join his schemes

a soliloquy shows that he is plotting in private, like a Machiavellian villain

a soliloquy reveals he is embarrassed to share his true views 

Why is the form in which Iago reveals his true intentions in Act 1 Scene 3 of 'Othello' significant?

In the play 'Othello' what does Iago call upon to bring his 'monstrous' ideas to light?

Read the following quote from Act 1 Scene 3 of 'Othello': "And will as tenderly be led by the nose As asses are.'' What is Iago saying about Othello here?

to show Iago's detrimental effect on the tragic hero

to warn the audience not to be treacherous 

Why might Shakespeare characterise Iago as a Machiavellian villain so early on in the play 'Othello'? 

having Desdemona, who he loves, marry Othello

being passed over for a promotion by Othello

having his best friend Roderigo reject him 

What is Iago bitter about in Act 1 Scene 1 of 'Othello'?

Iago decides to tell Brabantio that Desdemona has eloped with Othello

Iago decides to organise a group of armed men to look for Othello

Iago encourages Roderigo to woo Desdemona 

What does Iago do in Act 1 Scene 1 of 'Othello' to get revenge on Othello?

In Act 1 of 'Othello', what does Iago refer heavily to when telling Brabantio about Desdemona and Othello's elopement?

''We cannot all be masters, nor all masters Cannot be truly follow'd.''

''trimm'd in... visages of duty, keep yet their hearts attending on themselves''

''Call up her father, Rouse him: make after him, poison his delight''

Which quote from Shakespeare's 'Othello' proves that Iago is planning to be duplicitous in how he acts towards Othello?

''Awake the snorting citizens with the bell''

Which quote from Act 1 Scene 1 of 'Othello' presents Iago as diabolical?

He creates division between him and the Venetians.

He is overtly sexist towards Desdemona and Emilia.

How does Iago reveal himself to be a bigot in Act 1 Scene 1 of 'Othello'?

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

Adult supervision recommended

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

Exploring Iago from ‘Othello’ as a Machiavellian villain

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

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