New
New
Year 9
Exploring Act 5, Scene 1 of ‘Othello’
I can explore the intensifying characterisations of Iago in Act 5 Scene 1.
New
New
Year 9
Exploring Act 5, Scene 1 of ‘Othello’
I can explore the intensifying characterisations of Iago in Act 5 Scene 1.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The depths of Iago’s depravity, treachery and cowardice are revealed in his violence towards Cassio and Roderigo.
- Othello's violent speech contrasts poignantly with his declarations of love in Act 1.
- Night symbolises Iago and Othello’s descent into darkness and foreshadows the evil acts to come.
Common misconception
Iago is an evil villain, completely in control the whole play.
Iago begins to show his fallibility in 5.1.
Keywords
Depravity - Moral corruption or wickedness.
Poignant - Evoking deep sadness or regret.
Symbolism - When an image represents a wider idea or theme.
Treachery - Betrayal of trust.
Ask students to note down all the things that could go wrong for Iago after this point.
Teacher tip
Equipment
You will need a copy of Shakespeare's 'Othello' for this lesson.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
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Starter quiz
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6 Questions
Q1.
What happens to Othello in Act 4 Scene 1 of 'Othello'?
He is consumed by rage and kills Desdemona
He is consumed by jealousy and wounds Iago
Q2.
How does Othello show his mental instability in Act 4 Scene 1 of 'Othello'?
He refuses to leave his room
Q3.
What is the significance of Othello hiding and listening to Cassio and Roderigo's conversation in Act 4 Scene 1 of 'Othello'?
It shows him being rejected by society
It shows how much he hates Cassio
Q4.
"O Iago, the pity of it, Iago!" and ''How shall I murder him, Iago?'' What is the significance of these quotes from 'Othello'?
Othello is clearly in love with Iago
Othello is tricking Iago in the same way Iago did to him
Q5.
Why is Lodovico's statement: "Is this the noble Moor whose solid virtue could neither graze nor pierce'' in Act 4 Scene 1 of 'Othello' poignant?
It shows Othello will lose his wife
It shows everyone hates Othello
It confirms Othello will die
Q6.
What does Iago say he will do at the end of Act 4 Scene 1 of 'Othello'?
Kill Desdemona
Kill Othello
Kill himself
Exit quiz
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6 Questions
Q1.
What does Iago do in Act 5 Scene 1 of 'Othello'?
He kills Cassio and injures Roderigo
He kills Othello
He kills Gratiano and Lodovico
Q2.
Which symbol is used in Act 5 Scene 1 of 'Othello'?
Handkerchief is used to symbolise jealousy
Blood is used to symbolise sin
Q3.
Which quote reveals Iago's jealousy of Cassio in 'Othello'?
''besides, the Moor May unfold me to him''
''Wear thy good rapier bare, and put it home''
Q4.
When is dramatic irony used in Act 5 Scene 1 of 'Othello'?
When Othello says "Thou teachest me"
When Othello says "Forth of my heart those charms, thine eyes, are blotted"
Q5.
How does Iago reach the height of depravity in Act 5 Scene 1 of 'Othello'?
He deceives his wife
He pretends he is Cassio's good friend
Q6.
What does Iago's final aside in ct 5 Scene 1 of 'Othello' reveal?
He wants to kill himself because he fears he will be exposed
He believes he is untouchable as he has been able to manipulate everyone