Act 3, Scenes 1–4 Summary and Analysis
Scene 1
The scene opens with Cassio paying a group of musicians to play music for Othello. A clown enters, and after briefly making fun of the musicians, he pays them on behalf of Othello, who wishes for them to leave. Cassio sends the clown to fetch Emilia. Iago enters, and Cassio admits that he is going to try to use Emilia to speak to Desdemona. Iago tracks down Emilia and sends her to Cassio. Emilia tells Cassio that Othello and Desdemona are speaking and that Desdemona is trying to defend Cassio. Cassio asks Emilia to arrange a one-on-one meeting between him and Desdemona. She agrees, and they leave.
Scene 2
Scene 2 is relatively short. It opens upon Othello, Iago, and some gentlemen from Cyprus. Othello asks Iago to go pay the captain of the ship who brought him to Cyprus. He tells Iago that when he is finished, to come find him on the parapets. They all leave. The scene shows that Othello is now occupied, which allows the next scene to take shape.
Scene 3
Scene 3 opens upon Desdemona, Cassio, and Emilia. Desdemona tells Cassio that she will do everything in her power to convince Othello to reinstate him and that she will not let the matter rest with her husband until it is settled. As Othello and Iago enter, Desdemona invites Cassio to stay, but he leaves, claiming that his presence will not help. Othello notices that Cassio was just speaking to his wife, and when he asks her about it, she pressures him to show Cassio mercy, asking how soon he will reverse his decision to demote Cassio. Othello agrees to reinstate Cassio whenever Cassio is willing to come and plead his case, but he asks to be alone, so Desdemona leaves.
Iago asks how Desdemona and Cassio know one another, and Othello tells him that Cassio acted as a messenger, delivering messages between the lovers when Othello was wooing her. Iago asks if Othello can trust Cassio, and Othello seems perplexed by the question. Iago simply says that Cassio is an honest man and that people should be what they appear to be. Othello probes deeper, asking Iago to reveal anything he has not yet said. Iago, feigning reluctance, claims that he often overthinks things and states that his reputation is on the line if he reveals all of his thoughts. Iago then advises Othello to beware of jealousy, and not to be the sort of person who suspects that his wife is sleeping with someone else.
Othello is shocked and says that he would never suspect his wife of adultery, and even if he did, he would want proof of it. Iago suggests that Othello watch when Cassio and Desdemona are together, and he reminds Othello that Desdemona lied in order to marry Othello in the first place. He then reminds Othello that this is all just speculation, and he should not take any of it too seriously. Othello sends Iago away, but he speaks to himself, doubting that Desdemona loves him.
Emilia and Desdemona enter, and Othello complains of a headache. Desdemona attempts to wrap Othello’s head with her handkerchief, but he lets it fall to the ground, and they exit. Emilia picks up the handkerchief, because Iago has asked her to obtain it. She returns to Iago, and after Iago demeans her, he takes the handkerchief from her, makes her promise to say nothing more about it, and sends her away.
In an aside, Iago then explains that he is going to plant the handkerchief in Cassio’s house. Othello enters,...
(This entire section contains 1407 words.)
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raving about his wife’s infidelity. Othello insists that Iago find proof, because he cannot bear this unfounded suspicion any longer. Iago feigns remorse for planting these ideas in Othello’s head, and says that it would be hard to catch them in the act. However, Iago volunteers that Cassio has been talking about Desdemona in his sleep and says that he saw Cassio with the handkerchief that Othello had given to her. Othello vows revenge, promotes Iago to lieutenant, and asks him to kill Cassio.
Scene 4
Scene 4 begins with Desdemona, Emilia, and the clown. Desdemona tells the clown to find Cassio and let him know that she has spoken to her husband. The clown exits. Desdemona confides that she has lost her handkerchief to Emilia and that she would be concerned if her husband were the jealous type. Othello enters, and Desdemona asks if he has spoken to Cassio. Instead of responding, Othello states that he is feeling sick and asks her to lend him her handkerchief. When she says that she does not have it, Othello tells her that it was a family heirloom sewn by an Egyptian witch. The witch placed a spell on it that guaranteed the faithfulness of whomever the handkerchief’s owner loved. Othello demands to know if she has lost the handkerchief. Desdemona initially says that it is not on her person but that she knows where it is. But as Othello continues to demand she present it, she ignores him and begins asking about reinstating Cassio. This further enrages Othello, who storms off.
Emilia tells Desdemona that all men eventually become jealous and cruel. Iago and Cassio enter. Iago, pretending to act surprised, wonders how Othello could be in a bad mood, and goes to speak to Othello. Desdemona suspects that some political affair must have put Othello in a bad mood. Emilia suggests that Othello may actually be the jealous type. Desdemona leaves with Emilia and tells Cassio that she will speak to her husband when his spirits are up.
Bianca enters and chastises Cassio for leaving her for a week. Cassio apologizes and then asks her to copy the embroidery on a handkerchief that he found in his room. Bianca suspects that it was given to him by a new lover, but he tells her that he simply thinks it is pretty, and he knows that he will have to give the original back to its owner eventually. They agree to meet at another time.
Analysis
In act 3, we are introduced to the clown, who seems to serve little purpose beyond comic relief. However, his wordplay continues to show how words may fail to convey certain meanings—much in the same way that Brabantio suggests that words are often empty in act 1 and Cassio’s words fail him in act 2. In this case, it is the multiple meanings of the clown’s puns that call the credibility of words into question. For instance, in scene 1, the clown asks if the musicians play wind instruments, and then says, “O, thereby hangs a tail.” While the musicians think that he has said “tale,” the suggestion is that the wind is coming from where their tails would hang, or that their music sounds like flatulence. He continues with similar wordplay in scene 3 when speaking to Desdemona, playing with the homonym of lie (to recline) and lie (to tell falsities). Despite having a short appearance in the overall play, the clown humorously reminds us that words are not always to be trusted and that they can often fail to convey a particular message to the speaker and the listener.
The humor is lost, however, during Othello’s impromptu interrogation of his wife, where it seems as though each character is having a different conversation. Othello insists that his wife produce the handkerchief that he gave her as a sign of affection, but she continues to advocate for Cassio, eventually ignoring his demands altogether. Much like the clown, who speaks on a separate layer from the other characters, Othello and Desdemona are speaking past one another, although the stakes are now much higher.
The handkerchief itself is highly symbolic, and it is understandable that Othello would not want Desdemona to lose it. First, it is a sign of Othello’s heritage. The handkerchief itself is white with a red berry embroidery. The design—red on white cloth—is reminiscent of bloodstains on a sheet, a practice used to determine a bride’s virginity, and Othello, who tells Desdemona that the red dye was made from virgin’s blood, reminds us of this. While the handkerchief was in her possession, Desdemona was in charge of her virtue. The stealing of Desdemona’s handkerchief, as well as the red on white, suggests a kind of metaphorical loss of innocence.
Expert Q&A
What is Othello saying to Iago in act 3, scene 3 and why is it significant?
In act 3, scene 3 of Othello, Othello tells Iago he won't succumb to jealousy without proof of Desdemona's infidelity. He asserts that suspicions alone won't sway him and that he will only believe in her guilt if there is concrete evidence. This speech is significant because it provides Iago with the exact method to manipulate Othello, leading to the tragic events that follow.
What is the importance of the line "Villain, be sure thou prove my love a whore; Be sure of it. Give me the ocular proof," in Othello, act 3, scene 3, line 360?
The line "Villain, be sure thou prove my love a whore; Be sure of it. Give me the ocular proof," is crucial as it marks Othello's demand for tangible evidence of Desdemona's infidelity, pushing Iago to produce false evidence. This moment signifies Othello's deepening jealousy and sets the stage for the tragic events that follow, including Desdemona's death and Iago's eventual downfall.
In Act 3, Scene 3 of Othello, what does Othello and Iago kneeling and rising together symbolize?
In Act 3, Scene 3 of Othello, Othello and Iago kneeling and rising together symbolizes Othello's submission to Iago's influence and the perverse union between them. This act signifies Othello's transformation into Iago's pawn, reflecting a twisted parody of both marriage vows and military oaths. It marks the moment Othello's loyalty shifts from Desdemona to Iago, solidifying their destructive bond.
What is the purpose of the clown and musicians scene in Act 3 of Othello?
The purpose of the clown and musicians scene in Act 3 of Othello is to provide comic relief. This brief, humorous interlude lightens the mood, offering the audience a respite from the intense drama. It also appeals to the lower classes of Elizabethan society, balancing the play's pacing before the escalating tragedy in Acts IV and V.
How have Othello's age, lack of sophistication, and skin color affected his situation in Act 3, Scene 3?
In Act 3, Scene 3 of Othello, Othello's insecurities about his age, lack of sophistication, and race are exploited by Iago to plant seeds of jealousy. Othello begins to doubt Desdemona's fidelity, believing his perceived flaws make him undeserving of her. Despite initially resisting jealousy, Iago's manipulation makes Othello suspect that Desdemona prefers Cassio, who he sees as more attractive and refined, leading to his tragic downfall.
In Othello, what does "Excellent wretch! Perdition catch my soul / But I do love thee! And when I love thee not / Chaos is come again" mean?
Othello's exclamation reflects his deep love for Desdemona, calling her an "excellent wretch" affectionately. He suggests that losing his love for her would bring chaos, foreshadowing the turmoil that follows due to Iago's manipulation. The term "perdition" underscores the intensity of his love, indicating it threatens his soul. Iago exploits this love, sowing doubt about Desdemona's fidelity, which ultimately leads to Othello's tragic downfall.
How is Emilia characterized in act 3 of Othello?
In Act 3 of Othello, Emilia is characterized as a complex and intelligent woman who is often underestimated due to her gender. Despite appearing to conform to the stereotype of the "dumb wife," she demonstrates intelligence by piecing together Iago's scheme against Othello and Cassio. Emilia is loyal to Desdemona, yet she prioritizes her husband's wishes, creating a nuanced character. Her intelligence and loyalty are overlooked, even by Iago, who underestimates her ability to uncover his plot.
What does the "green-eyed monster" line in Othello mean?
The "green-eyed monster" line in Othello refers to jealousy. Iago warns Othello that jealousy is a destructive force that can consume him. The term "green" has historically symbolized jealousy, as seen in ancient Greek descriptions of sickly, greenish complexions due to envy. Iago's warning is both dramatic and verbal irony, as he manipulates Othello's emotions to provoke suspicion and anger.
What figure of speech is used in act 3, scene 3, lines 250-480 of Othello?
In Act 3, Scene 3, lines 250-480 of Othello, Shakespeare employs several figures of speech. Notably, the rhetorical device "hysteron proteron" is used, inverting logical order to reflect Othello's psychological confusion. Prolepsis, or foreshadowing, is also present as Othello assumes Desdemona's guilt prematurely. Other figures include metaphors, such as referring to Desdemona as a falcon, hyperbole, and similes, enhancing the emotional intensity and complexity of the scene.
In Othello, what is Cassio's relationship with Bianca at the end of act 3?
By the end of Act 3, Cassio and Bianca are involved romantically, but their relationship is unbalanced. Cassio refers to Bianca as "sweet love" but seems less committed than she is. He gives her a handkerchief, not as a gift, but to copy its stitching, and he avoids being seen with her by Othello. Bianca is more invested in the relationship, while Cassio treats her with indifference, suggesting he views her more as a temporary companion.
What is the mood and setting of Othello Act 3, Scene 3, lines 285-445?
The mood in Act 3, Scene 3 of Othello shifts from self-pity to vengeful fury and doubt as Othello grapples with Iago's deceitful insinuations about Desdemona's infidelity. Despite lacking proof, Othello becomes consumed by jealousy and rage, illustrating his vulnerability to Iago's manipulations. This pivotal scene highlights Othello's emotional turmoil and descent into irrationality, driven by Iago's psychological tactics, as he demands "ocular proof" of his wife's betrayal.
What is the context of this passage from Act 3, Scene 3 of Shakespeare's Othello?
Emilia : I am glad I have found this napkin:
This was her first remembrance from the Moor,
My wayward husband hath a hundred times
Woo'd me to steal it . But she so loves the token,
(For he conjur'd her , she should ever keep it }
That she reserves it evermore about her,
To kiss and talk to . I'll have the work ta'en out,
And give't Iago : what he will do with it
Heaven knows , not I:
I nothing , but to please his fantasy.
In this passage from Act 3, Scene 3 of Othello, Emilia finds Desdemona's handkerchief, a gift from Othello, and decides to give it to her husband, Iago, who has long asked her to steal it. Desdemona cherishes it as Othello's first gift, but Emilia is unaware of Iago's plan to use it to frame Desdemona and Cassio, fueling Othello's jealousy and securing Iago's rise in rank.
What is the meaning of Desdemona's quote in 'Othello'?
Desdemona: accept his apologies, for, if he is not one who is truly devoted to you, whose error arose from poor judgment and not from an intention to do wrong I am unable to judge an honest face.
Desdemona's quote reflects her innocence and belief in Cassio's genuine respect for Othello. In Act III, Scene iii, she urges Othello to forgive Cassio, believing his error was due to poor judgment, not malice. Desdemona admits she cannot judge intentions, highlighting her naivety. This aligns with Iago's manipulation, as her plea inadvertently intensifies Othello's jealousy and suspicion, showcasing her inability to discern deceitful intentions.
In Othello, who finds Desdemona's lost handkerchief?
In Othello, Emilia finds Desdemona's lost handkerchief. After Desdemona accidentally drops it in Act III, Scene iii, Emilia picks it up, aware that her husband, Iago, has often asked her to steal it. Despite her reluctance, Iago takes the handkerchief from her, using it to manipulate Othello into believing Desdemona's infidelity with Cassio, thus serving as a pivotal element in the play's tragic events.
What is the meaning and significance of this quote from Othello: "Within these three days let me hear thee say that Cassio is not alive."
This quote from Act 3, Scene 3 of Othello reveals Othello's instruction to Iago to kill Cassio within three days. It signifies Othello's complete manipulation by Iago, who has convinced him of Desdemona's infidelity with Cassio. This demand is a turning point, reflecting Othello's descent into jealousy and rage, and contrasts with Desdemona's earlier plea for Othello to speak to Cassio, highlighting the tragic misunderstanding and manipulation at play.
What figures of speech are in act 3, scene 3, lines 300-450 of Othello?
In Act 3, Scene 3, Lines 300-450 of Othello, Shakespeare uses various figures of speech, including idioms, metaphors, and similes. An example of an idiom is "whistle her off and let her down the wind," whose meaning is not literal. Metaphorically, "Dangerous conceits are, in their natures, poisons" compares conceits to poisons without using "like" or "as." These figures of speech enrich the text, adding depth to Shakespeare's writing.
What is the mood in Act 3, Scene 3, lines 300 - 450 of Othello?
The mood in Act 3, Scene 3, lines 300-450 of Othello is dark and manipulative, marked by betrayal. Iago subtly plants seeds of doubt in Othello's mind about Desdemona's fidelity, using truth mixed with false insinuations. He suggests Desdemona's deceitfulness, prompting Othello to become suspicious and tormented. This scene's atmosphere is one of treachery, as Iago's cunning manipulation begins to take effect, leading Othello toward jealousy and mistrust.
What is the purpose of the conversation between Cassio and the Clown in Othello, Act 3, Scene 1?
The conversation between Cassio and the Clown in Act 3, Scene 1 of Othello serves as comic relief and a transition between scenes, linking the wedding night to the following morning. It highlights Cassio's attempt to regain favor with Othello by hiring musicians, which the Clown dismisses humorously. This interaction also underscores Cassio's misjudgment and foreshadows the insincerity of Iago's friendliness towards him as the plot unfolds.
Compare Othello's diction and use of antithesis and metaphor in lines 450-453, 453-455 and 478-481 in act 3, scene 3.
In Act 3, Scene 3 of Othello, Iago's diction shifts between poetic and prosaic to manipulate Othello's emotions. In lines 450-453, Iago uses vivid imagery and alliteration to inflame Othello, prompting a passionate response. In lines 453-455, his language becomes more ordinary, using similes to maintain Othello's anger, although Othello briefly responds rationally. By lines 478-481, Iago returns to heightened diction, employing imagery and similes to provoke Othello's jealousy and emotional turmoil.
In Act 3 Scene 3 of Othello, what observation does Othello make about Iago's speech?
In Act 3, Scene 3 of Othello, Othello observes that Iago's speech echoes his own words, suggesting that Iago harbors a terrible suspicion he is reluctant to reveal. This subtle manipulation makes Othello believe there is a "monster" in Iago's mind, "too hideous to be shown," playing on Othello's jealousy and insecurity. Iago's strategic repetition effectively plants doubt while maintaining an appearance of innocence.
What is the meaning of Emilia's statement in the modern text of Othello?
Emilia: "But he protests that he cares about you and needs no other plea than his regard for you-and only the smallest excuse- to reinstate you."
Emilia's statement to Cassio in Act III, Scene i of Othello suggests that Othello's dismissal of Cassio was a political maneuver to maintain authority in Cyprus. Despite this, Othello still values Cassio and is searching for a suitable opportunity to reinstate him. Emilia also indicates that Desdemona is advocating for Cassio, aligning with Iago's scheme to undermine both Desdemona and Cassio.
The Handkerchief's Symbolism and Role in "Othello"
In Shakespeare's Othello, the handkerchief is a crucial symbol and plot device representing love and fidelity. Given by Othello to Desdemona, it carries a backstory of magical protection, symbolizing marital loyalty. Iago manipulates this by planting the handkerchief with Cassio, leading Othello to believe in Desdemona's infidelity. This "ocular proof" fuels Othello's jealousy, ultimately leading to tragic consequences. The handkerchief's journey through various characters highlights themes of trust, betrayal, and the destructive power of jealousy.
