For discussion, I will be covering the first 2 acts of Othello. The main issues that I will be covering are as listed:
1 – The introduction of Othello into the play.
2 – Desdemona’s right of choice.
3 – Loyal Obedience.
A few things to keep in mind are how exactly were we introduced to Othello? Where in the play does Desdemona have a right of choice (or say)? Last but not least, where is the idea of loyal obedience being portrayed? I actually got this last idea of loyal obedience from the article The Theme of Personal Integrity in Othello by R. Rappoport. He focuses on loyalty and obedience as a huge factor in the play and presents examples from the first two acts where this idea is in full display (for example, just as loyal as he is to the Duke, Othello expects that same loyalty from Cassio)
1 response so far ↓
Mel Gili Zhu // Dec 6th 2014 at 12:41 pm
Your discussion was interesting. I like how you address Iago’s motivations for his acts of treachery towards Othello. I like the idea of loyal obedience which you mention. It is ironic in the play about this idea of loyalty and obedience in how Othello trusts and believes Iago who is not what he seems. The article was interesting in its discussion of personal integrity.