Essay Questions

Why does Othello stab himself?

Othello has proof of Desdemona's affair with Cassio in the form of her handkerchief which was in Cassio's possession. However, Emilia comes clean to Othello, telling him that she gave that handkerchief to Iago. With this knowledge, Othello knows that he has killed an innocent woman, the love of his life. He then pierces his own flesh with his dagger leading to his death.

Why does Roderigo do so many foul things for Iago?

Roderigo picks a fight with Cassio and is willing to kill Cassio when asked by Iago. The reason he does this is that he is in love with Desdemona, and if Othello is out of the picture then he has a chance to be with her. He is disillusioned to believe that by helping Iago he will win Desdemona as Iago's intention is to clear all of the evidence of his betrayal, including killing Roderigo which he does.

Why does Brabantio call a counsel meeting at the beginning of the play?

Othello and Desdemona have gotten married in secret, but Iago has seen it. Iago then convinces Roderigo to tell Desdemona's father, Brabantio of her marriage. This causes great rage in Brabantio as we see that he is more than displeased with his daughter wedding a Moorish man, even of the great stature of the General, Othello. Thus he uses his power as a senator to call a counsel in order for Othello to convince him of why he should allow him to marry his daughter.