Othello – Act 2 Summary & Analysis

Act 2: Setting the Scene

Act 2 moves the action from Venice to Cyprus. Cyprus is an island. It is a military outpost. This change of setting is important. It creates a new atmosphere for the play.

The Storm and Arrival

• A violent storm at sea destroys the Turkish fleet. This removes the external threat to Cyprus.
• The storm also separates Othello’s ships from Cassio’s and Desdemona’s. This builds suspense.
• Cassio arrives first, followed by Desdemona and Iago. Othello’s arrival is delayed.
• The storm can be seen as a symbol (a thing that represents something else). It mirrors the chaos Iago plans to unleash.
• For example, the storm is described as ‘a most dreadful thunder-clap’ (Act 2, Scene 1, Line 5). This foreshadows (hints at) future disaster.
• Another example is the news that ‘the Turkish fleet are drowned’ (Act 2, Scene 1, Line 4). This removes the external enemy, leaving only internal conflict.

Why this matters for your exam

Understanding the setting change helps you analyse themes. The storm is a powerful symbol. It reflects the emotional turmoil to come. Discuss how the setting influences character actions.

Iago’s Devious Plan Takes Shape

Iago’s villainy (evil nature) becomes clearer in Act 2. He reveals more of his wicked intentions. He manipulates (controls unfairly) those around him.

Motivations and Methods

• Iago continues to express his hatred for Othello. He believes Othello slept with Emilia, his wife. He also suspects Othello promoted Cassio unfairly.
• He plans to make Othello believe Desdemona is unfaithful. He wants to use Cassio as part of this plan.
• Iago uses soliloquies (speeches delivered alone on stage) to share his thoughts. These show his true evil nature to the audience.
• For instance, Iago states, ‘I hate the Moor’ (Act 2, Scene 1, Line 298). This clearly shows his deep-seated prejudice (pre-judgement).
• He also reveals his plan to ‘make the Moor thank me, love me, and reward me’ (Act 2, Scene 3, Line 357). This highlights his manipulative goals.

Manipulation of Roderigo

• Roderigo is a wealthy Venetian nobleman. He is in love with Desdemona. Iago exploits (takes advantage of) his feelings.
• Iago convinces Roderigo that Desdemona will soon tire of Othello. He tells Roderigo to provoke Cassio into a fight.
• Roderigo is easily led. He gives Iago money and follows his bad advice.
• Iago tells Roderigo to ‘put money in thy purse’ (Act 1, Scene 3, Line 339). This shows Iago’s greed and control over Roderigo.
• Roderigo’s gullibility (easily fooled nature) is shown when he agrees to ‘provoke the captain’ (Act 2, Scene 3, Line 266). This sets up the conflict.

Why this matters for your exam

Focus on Iago’s use of language. How does he persuade others? Analyse his soliloquies to understand his motives. Discuss how he exploits weaknesses in other characters.

Cassio’s Downfall

Iago’s plan to discredit (damage the reputation of) Cassio is a key part of Act 2. This event is central to Othello’s downfall.

The Drunken Brawl

• Iago encourages Cassio to drink alcohol. Cassio is usually very disciplined.
• Cassio becomes drunk and gets into a fight with Roderigo. Montano, the governor of Cyprus, tries to intervene.
• Cassio wounds Montano. This public display of violence is a serious offence.
• Iago pretends to be reluctant to tell Othello what happened. This makes him seem trustworthy.
• Iago tells Cassio, ‘I’ll pour this pestilence into his ear’ (Act 2, Scene 3, Line 358). This shows his intention to poison Othello’s mind.
• Cassio laments (expresses sorrow) his lost reputation, saying ‘Reputation, reputation, reputation! O, I have lost my reputation!’ (Act 2, Scene 3, Line 261-262). This highlights the importance of honour.

Othello’s Reaction

• Othello is furious about the disturbance. He demands to know who started the fight.
• He dismisses Cassio from his position as lieutenant. This is a severe punishment.
• Othello says, ‘Cassio, I love thee; But never more be officer of mine’ (Act 2, Scene 3, Line 248-249). This shows his strict sense of justice.
• He is also swayed by Iago’s false account. This shows Othello’s vulnerability to manipulation.

Why this matters for your exam

Examine how Iago uses Cassio’s weakness (drinking) against him. Discuss Othello’s swift and harsh judgement. Consider the theme of reputation and honour in the play.

Seeds of Jealousy

After Cassio’s dismissal, Iago offers him false advice. This advice is designed to further Iago’s evil plan. It plants the first seeds of jealousy in Othello’s mind.

Iago’s ‘Helpful’ Advice to Cassio

• Iago suggests Cassio appeal to Desdemona. He says Desdemona has influence over Othello.
• Cassio agrees to ask Desdemona to speak on his behalf. This puts Desdemona in a compromising position.
• Iago tells Cassio, ‘Our general’s wife is now the general’ (Act 2, Scene 3, Line 309). This encourages Cassio to seek Desdemona’s help.
• Cassio believes Iago is his friend. He says, ‘I never knew a Florentine more kind and honest’ (Act 3, Scene 1, Line 40). This shows Iago’s successful deception.

Iago’s Final Soliloquy of Act 2

• In his final soliloquy, Iago reveals his full, wicked scheme. He plans to make Othello believe Desdemona is having an affair with Cassio.
• He will use Desdemona’s kindness towards Cassio against her. He will twist her good intentions into evidence of guilt.
• Iago states, ‘I’ll turn her virtue into pitch’ (Act 2, Scene 3, Line 354). This means he will corrupt her goodness.
• He also says, ‘And out of her own goodness make the net that shall enmesh them all’ (Act 2, Scene 3, Line 355-356). This shows his cunning plan to trap everyone.

Why this matters for your exam

Analyse Iago’s psychological manipulation. How does he exploit Desdemona’s virtuous nature? Discuss how this sets up the central conflict of jealousy. Consider the theme of appearance versus reality.

What You Need to Know

• Tip: Analyse Iago’s soliloquies carefully. They reveal his true motives and plans, which are crucial for understanding the play’s rising action.
• Pitfall: Don’t just summarise the plot. Focus on how events in Act 2 contribute to the themes of jealousy, manipulation, and reputation.
• Tip: Use short, relevant quotes. Support every analytical point with a direct quote, ensuring you include Act, Scene, and Line numbers for accuracy.