OTHELLO

ACT 1 SCENE 1

On a dimly lit street in Venice, Roderigo and Iago are talking. Roderigo is upset because, although he bribed Iago to help him in his pursuit of Desdemona, he has learnt that she has eloped with Othello.

In order to maintain Roderigo’s confidence, as well as control of his finances, Iago leads him to believe that he too despises Othello, thus forming a conspiracy against Othello. Iago explains how Othello denied him a promotion and appointed Cassio as his lieutenant instead.

Iago at this point suggests that they awaken Brabantio in order to inform him about his daughter’s elopement. Roderigo and Iago awaken Brabantio with loud cries and comments. Brabantio, half asleep at this point, comes to the window and accuses Roderigo of being drunk. Roderigo however convinces Brabantio to take a second look and check to see if Desdemona is indeed at home, as he thinks. Upon realizing that Desdemona is missing Brabantio is distressed and appoints Roderigo to help him f...