Exploring Act 4 Scene 1 of 'Othello'
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can explore the changes in Othello's character in Act 4, Scene 1.
Key learning points
- Othello’s fit robs him of his ability to speak, the trait that distinguishes humans from animals.
- Consumed by jealousy, he has become the animal that the prejudiced characters have described him as being.
- Formally, Othello was the centre of attention as the military hero, he now lurks on the periphery, an outsider.
- Lodovico is used to draw attention, almost like a chorus to Othello's change.
Keywords
Consumed - To be so full of a feeling that it affects everything you do.
Symbolic positioning - When an object or character is placed in a position that symbolises a theme or idea.
Outsider - A person who does not belong to the wider community or group.
Poignant - Evoking deep sadness or regret.
Common misconception
The audience will perceive the tragic hero to be at complete fault for their downfall.
In Othello, due to the amount of time we spend getting to know Iago, we can see the huge role Iago plays in Othello's character change.
Teacher tip
Students could hot seat Othello about his character change.
Equipment
You will need a copy of Shakespeare's 'Othello' for this lesson.
Content guidance
Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
Depiction or discussion of serious crime
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Why is Act 3 Scene 3 of 'Othello' called 'The Temptation' scene?
Q2.What biblical role does Iago represent in Act 3 Scene 3 of 'Othello' and why?
Q3.''No, Iago, I’ll see before I doubt." What does this quote show about Othello's initial reaction to Iago's manipulation in Act 3 Scene 3 of 'Othello'?
Q4.How does Othello react to Iago's suggestions by the end of Act 3 Scene 3 of 'Othello'?
Q5.How can Act 3 Scene 3 of 'Othello' be seen as the peripeteia?
Q6.Which quote reflects that Othello's imminent downfall is inevitable in 'Othello'?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is Othello consumed by in Act 4 Scene 1 of 'Othello'?
Q2.What is not true of Othello's character change by Act 4 Scene 1 of 'Othello'?
Q3.Which of the below is the best description of how symbolic positioning is used effectively in Act 4 Scene 1 of 'Othello'?
Q4.How is dramatic irony shown in Act 4 Scene 1 of 'Othello'?
Q5.''--Handkerchief--confessions--handkerchief!--''. 'What does the syntax here show in this quote from Act 4 Scene 1 of 'Othello'?
Q6.How does Othello act at the end of Act 4 Scene 1 of 'Othello' and what does it show?
To help you plan your 9 English lesson on: Exploring Act 4 Scene 1 of 'Othello', download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 9 English lesson on: Exploring Act 4 Scene 1 of 'Othello', download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 3 English lessons from the 'Othello' unit, dive into the full secondary English curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.