Topic - William Shakespeare (Othello) [#Q22/L/WS/170725]
1. Why does Iago resent Othello at the beginning of the play?
2. What is significant about Othello’s status as a Moor in Venetian society?
3. How does Shakespeare use dramatic irony in Iago’s early statements?
4. Why is Brabantio’s accusation against Othello important thematically?
5. What rhetorical device does Iago frequently employ to manipulate others?
6. What impression does Othello’s first speech before the Duke create?
7. How does Desdemona challenge gender expectations in her testimony to the Duke?
8. How does Iago’s 'I am not what I am' reflect a deeper theme of the play?
9. Why is Cassio’s lack of battlefield experience a key detail?
10. What does the symbolism of the handkerchief represent later in the play?
11. How does Iago manipulate Roderigo?
12. How does Shakespeare present Othello’s tragic flaw early in the play?
13. How does Iago justify his hatred of Othello to the audience?
14. Why does Shakespeare choose Cyprus as the main setting after Venice?
15. What dramatic function does the Turkish threat serve in Act I?
16. Why is Iago often compared to a 'puppet master' by critics?
17. How is the theme of appearance vs reality embedded in Act I?
18. What structural role does Roderigo play in Iago’s schemes?
19. Why is Othello’s declaration 'My life upon her faith!' ironic?
20. What does Brabantio mean by warning Othello: 'She has deceived her father, and may thee'?
