Keyword Guide · book-summary
Act 2 of Shakespeare’s Othello shifts the action to Cyprus and raises the tension beneath a calm surface. This summary highlights the main events, character moves, and themes you need for class and exams.
The act opens in Cyprus after a violent storm at sea. The storm destroys the Turkish fleet, removing the external military threat. One by one, the Venetian characters arrive safely, including Othello and Desdemona. The mood appears celebratory, but the storm also signals emotional turmoil to come.
While others celebrate, Iago quietly advances his scheme. He studies Cassio’s behavior and looks for ways to damage his reputation. Iago speaks differently to each character, presenting himself as honest while manipulating perceptions behind the scenes.
Othello declares a night of celebration. Iago encourages Cassio to drink, knowing Cassio has low tolerance. The situation escalates into a fight involving Montano, the former governor. Othello intervenes and, valuing discipline, strips Cassio of his rank.
Cassio is devastated by the loss of his position. Iago pretends to offer friendly advice, suggesting Cassio seek Desdemona’s help. This moment is crucial, as it sets up the misunderstanding Iago plans to exploit in later acts.
The storm removes the war threat and symbolically reflects the emotional chaos that will soon affect the characters.
Cassio drinks too much, loses control, and becomes involved in a fight, which costs him his military rank.
It sets up Iago’s manipulation by discrediting Cassio and positioning Desdemona as an unwitting part of the plan.
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