Othello – Act 4 Summary & Analysis

Higher Level English Resource

Act 4: The Descent into Chaos

Overview of Act 4

Act 4 marks a significant turning point in Othello. It shows the tragic consequences of Iago’s manipulation. Othello’s jealousy reaches its peak, leading to his decision to murder Desdemona. This act highlights the falling action, where events spiral out of control.

Othello’s mental state deteriorates rapidly.
Desdemona remains innocent but is increasingly isolated.
Iago’s plans seem to succeed completely.

Othello’s Deterioration

Othello’s mind is completely poisoned by Iago’s lies. He experiences fits and hallucinations, showing his mental breakdown. His noble character is almost entirely gone.

He falls into a trance after hearing Iago’s fabricated stories about Desdemona and Cassio. This physical collapse shows his mental torment.
Othello plans Desdemona’s murder, moving from suspicion to a firm resolve for revenge. He tells Iago, “Get me some poison, Iago, this night.” (Act 4, Scene 1, Line 205).

Desdemona’s Innocence and Isolation

Desdemona remains unaware of Othello’s true suspicions. She continues to show her loyalty and love, even as Othello abuses her. Her isolation grows as even Emilia cannot fully understand Othello’s behaviour.

Othello strikes Desdemona in public, calling her a “devil” (Act 4, Scene 1, Line 245). This public humiliation is shocking and undeserved.
She sings the ‘Willow Song’, a sad ballad about a woman abandoned by her lover. This foreshadows her own tragic fate.

Iago’s Continued Manipulation

Iago’s villainy (evil actions) intensifies in Act 4. He orchestrates events to confirm Othello’s false beliefs. He also manipulates Roderigo further, leading him to his death.

Iago arranges for Othello to overhear a conversation with Cassio. He makes Othello believe Cassio is talking about Desdemona, when he is actually discussing Bianca.
He convinces Roderigo to murder Cassio, promising him Desdemona in return. Iago says, “If Cassio do remain, he hath a daily beauty in his life / That makes me ugly” (Act 5, Scene 1, Lines 18-19).

Emilia’s Growing Awareness

Emilia begins to suspect that someone has been lying to Othello. She defends Desdemona’s honour, though she still does not fully grasp Iago’s role. Her loyalty to Desdemona is clear.

Emilia tells Desdemona that Othello’s jealousy is a “monster / Begot upon itself, born on itself” (Act 3, Scene 4, Lines 161-162). This shows her understanding of jealousy’s destructive nature.
She expresses her belief that some “villain” (Act 4, Scene 2, Line 139) has slandered (spoken falsely about) Desdemona to Othello.

Why this matters for your exam

Understanding Act 4 is crucial for analysing the play’s tragic climax. Focus on how Othello’s character changes and the impact of Iago’s deceit. Pay attention to Desdemona’s continued innocence and Emilia’s dawning awareness. These elements build the tension towards the final act.

What You Need to Know

Tip: Trace Othello’s decline: For your exam, describe how Othello’s language and actions become increasingly violent and irrational in Act 4, showing the full effect of Iago’s poison.
Pitfall: Don’t overlook Desdemona’s agency: Avoid presenting Desdemona as merely a victim; instead, analyse her unwavering loyalty and dignity even when faced with Othello’s abuse.
Tip: Connect Iago’s methods to outcomes: Explain how Iago’s specific manipulative tactics, like the handkerchief and overheard conversations, directly lead to Othello’s tragic decisions in this act.