Topic - William Shakespeare (Othello) [#Q23/L/WS/180725]
1. What makes the handkerchief a powerful symbol in Othello’s tragedy?
2. How does Iago manipulate Othello’s perception of Cassio in Act III?
3. What thematic role does Othello’s epileptic fit play in Act IV?
4. Why is Othello’s demand for 'ocular proof' ironic?
5. What is the significance of Desdemona’s line: 'I myself. Farewell.' in Act IV?
6. How does Emilia serve as a foil to Desdemona in these acts?
7. How does Shakespeare portray the descent of Othello’s character in Act III?
8. Why does Iago instruct Othello to hide and watch Cassio talk?
9. What is the dramatic irony of Desdemona’s efforts to plead for Cassio?
10. Why is Emilia’s role critical in the handkerchief incident?
11. What is the structural purpose of the 'Willow Song' sung by Desdemona?
12. How does Othello's language in Act IV differ from earlier acts?
13. What makes Iago’s manipulation especially effective by Act IV?
14. What does Othello striking Desdemona on stage signify thematically?
15. How does Shakespeare build Desdemona’s tragic innocence?
16. How does Emilia’s tone shift by the end of Act IV?
17. What does Othello mean by 'Yet she must die, else she'll betray more men'?
18. Why is the handkerchief described as 'magic' or 'enchanted'?
19. How is Cassio used to intensify Othello’s jealousy in these acts?
20. What does Desdemona’s passivity during her mistreatment suggest about Elizabethan views on women?
