Othello Summary Act One Act 1 Scene 1

Othello Summary: Act One

Act 1, Scene 1 Setting: Late at night, outside Brabantio’s house � � � Iago and Roderigo enter and Iago talks of his hatred of Othello, which appears to stem from the fact that Iago, Othello's ancient or standard bearer has been passed over for promotion in favour of Michael Cassio, a younger, less experienced soldier. Roderigo advises Iago to leave Othello’s service if he hates him so much, but Iago replies "I follow him to serve my turn upon him, " apparently intending to remain in Othello’s service in order to get his revenge on him. As Roderigo and Iago's conversation develops it becomes clear that Roderigo is also unhappy with Othello. He is in love with Desdemona and Desdemona has eloped with Othello. Roderigo and Iago awaken Brabantio and tell him about his daughter’s elopement, anticipating that this will anger Brabantio and in turn disrupt Othello’s plans. Iago leaves while Brabantio prepares to travel to Othello’s house, in order that he is not seen to be siding against Othello. Brabantio and Roderigo set off to Othello's house with a group of armed men.

Act 1, Scene 2 Setting: Later that night, at Othello’s lodging-house � Iago has arrived at Othello’s lodgings and is “warning” him that Brabantio is furious about Othello’s elopement with Desdemona. He claims that Roderigo has stirred up Brabantio’s anger, when in reality we know that Iago himself was responsible. � Cassio interrupts and tells Othello that his military advice is needed regarding an invasion of a Venetian colony by Turkish ships. � Brabantio arrives and expresses his anger with Othello about his elopement with Desdemona, believing that Othello has used witchcraft to make her fall in love with him. � Othello convinces Brabantio that the best way to resolve the dispute is to go to the Duke of Venice and ask for his advice. The two men exit, intending to seek out the Duke.

Act 1, Scene 3 Setting: Later that night, at the Senate � � � The duke and other members of the senate are discussing the current military situation in Venice. The Turkish fleet is heading towards Cyprus. Brabantio and Othello arrive, and explain their disagreement to the Duke. Othello claims that he and Desdemona are in love, but Brabantio claims it is purely the result of Othello’s witchcraft. On Othello’s suggestion, Desdemona is called to speak for herself, and she says that she loves Othello. Brabantio grudgingly accepts their marriage. Othello is sent to Cyprus in order to defend the city against the advancing Turkish fleet. There is some discussion over where Desdemona will stay during Othello’s posting in Cyprus, before she eventually requests that she is allowed to accompany her husband there. Brabantio warns Othello to beware Desdemona – she has deceived her father and will, he believes, deceive Othello dismisses this suggestion, saying “My life upon her faith”. Roderigo, who is upset that he has lost his chances with Desdemona, becomes very depressed. However, he is encouraged by Iago to “Put money in thy purse”, and journey to Cyprus where he