Acting Companies performed 1.2
First Impressions: If you were absent answer the following questions and turn them in next class.
We saw Othello for the first time in this scene--is he what you though he would be? Is he respected by his associates? How do you know?
What contrasts are there between the way Iago, Roderigo, Brabantiohave described Othello and the way he looks and behaves when he actually appears?
Do you notice basic differences in attitude between Cassio and Iago in their short conversation (1.2.60-65) following Othello’s exit?
Why is Brabantio convinced that Othello must have used witchcraft on his daughter? Why does he have difficulty believing his daughter could run to Othello’s “sooty bosom”?
Dramaturges Reports: Venice and Cyprus (If absent, please look these places up on-line)
Film: We watched the first 20 minutes (through Act 3 of the film version of Othello
Homework
Read 1.3.1-342
Complete log entry including:
Describe Othello as you see him in your imagination. Say which actor, or type of actor, you would choose to play the role. Find a picture on-line or in a magazine that resembles your idea of Othello, or draw your own.
Iago swears in line 38 “By Janus.” Janus is a Roman two-faced god. Give examples of Iago’s two-faced behavior. How might an actor convey this?
