Exploration of the theme of appearances and reality in 'Othello'

English

In 'Othello', pupils learn about the conventions of a tragic hero, which allows them to judge whether the protagonist is more a victim of his own hamartia or rather of external pressures and a racist society. In 'Macbeth: A Tragic  Hero', pupils evaluate whether Macbeth's downfall is caused by his own hubris or whether Lady Macbeth and wider society can be blamed. 

In 'The Language of Protest', pupils take inspiration from protest poetry and speeches, to write an opinion article. In 'Othello', pupils use their argumentative writing skills to compose letters in defense of Othello and to write speeches campaigning for racial equality. 

'Othello'

Discriminatory behaviour or images, whether on the grounds of race, gender, disability, religion or belief or sexual orientation, or otherwise.

Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

Depiction or discussion of violence or fighting, including threats of violence or the aftermath of violence.

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

Which character appears inseparable from the theme of appearance vs reality in Shakespeare's 'Othello'?

He is led to believe that Iago is genuinely helping him to win over Desdemona.

He is led to believe that he will be imminently promoted.

He is led to believe that Desdemona secretly loves him.

How is Roderigo deceived in the play 'Othello'?

Iago paints Othello as animalistic and evil in 1.1

How does Iago paint a false depiction of Othello in Act 1 Scene 1 of 'Othello'?

Iago uses Othello's impairment to successfully fabricate a conversation.

Iago sends Othello back to Venice and claims he is not fit to lead the army.

It buys Iago time to frame Desdemona and Cassio in an intimate moment.

In 'Othello', why is Othello's trance significant in helping Iago manipulate reality?

sonnet, it shows his secret love for Desdemona

dramatic monologue, it shows his secret boastful nature 

Which literary device is commonly used for Iago's speech and why is it significant in crafting the theme of appearance vs reality in 'Othello'?

He plants a handkerchief in Cassio's room.

He manipulates Cassio into a drunken confession.

He takes Othello to a secret balcony where he can see for himself.

He manipulates Desdemona so she inadvertently lies to Othello.

In 'Othello', Othello states that he needs "ocular proof" to believe Desdemona's affair. How does Iago achieve this?

when an object reoccurs throughout a play

He convinces him that Venice is in danger.

He convinces him that Cassio and Desdemona are having an affair.

He convinces him that he is a useless army general.

In Shakespeare's 'Othello', how does Iago deceive Othello?

He frames him as having an affair, so Othello fires him.

He frames him as a drunkard, so Othello fires him.

He frames him as a war criminal, so Othello fires him.

How does Iago contribute to getting Cassio fired in 'Othello'?

He sees Bianca, Cassio's mistress, with Desdemona's handkerchief.

He sees Cassio's tie in Desdemona's pocket.

In the play 'Othello', what is the moment Othello sees Desdemona's 'affair' with Cassio as 'reality'?

No, her father believes she is ''a maiden never bold''.

Yes, she is a timid young woman who obeys her father.

No, Othello believes she is a faithful wife.

Is Desdemona what she seems at the beginning of the play 'Othello'? Explain.

It shows how Iago is insecure about not getting a promotion.

It shows how Iago cannot decide if he likes Othello or not.

It shows how Iago will appear to be loyal but in reality be treacherous.

How does ‘’I am not what I am’’ link to the theme of appearances vs reality in the play 'Othello'?

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

Adult supervision recommended

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Exploration of the theme of appearances and reality in 'Othello'

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.