Keyword Guide · book-summary
Act 1 sets the conflict of Shakespeare’s Othello in motion. It introduces key characters, motivations, and the seeds of jealousy that drive the play.
The play opens in Venice with Iago revealing his anger toward Othello for promoting Cassio instead of him. He teams up with Roderigo, who is upset because Desdemona has secretly married Othello. Together, they alert Desdemona’s father, Brabantio, hoping to turn him against Othello.
Othello calmly faces accusations that he used magic to win Desdemona. When Desdemona speaks for herself, she confirms that she chose Othello freely. The Duke accepts their marriage and sends Othello to defend Cyprus from a military threat.
Iago’s resentment goes beyond the job promotion. He hints at personal jealousy and a desire to manipulate others for his own gain. By the end of the act, he begins planning how to use Cassio and Desdemona to damage Othello.
Act 1 introduces appearance versus reality, jealousy, and trust. Public order contrasts with private manipulation, especially in Iago’s behavior. These themes shape the tragic events that follow.
It establishes the main conflict, introduces Iago’s plan, and explains how Othello and Desdemona’s marriage creates tension.
We learn that Iago is manipulative, resentful, and willing to deceive others to achieve his goals.
Focus on character motivations, especially Iago’s, and connect early themes like jealousy and trust to later events in the play.
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