Othello Act IV

Othello
William Shakespeare

The fourth act was the most interesting so far because it finally gave some direction as to where the play was finally headed. Throughout the first three acts, we see nearly every character make plans, but we don't really find out exactly what's in store until the fourth act.  One of my favorite scenes so far is when Iago tricks Othello into thinking that Cassio is  talking about Desdemona, though he is really speaking about Bianca.  This scene is pivotal in convincing Othello of Desdemona's affair with Cassio because it also offers ocular proof--the handkerchief.  This scene also displays some of Iago's best work, namely his deceit and false loyalty.  The stage directions and ques are also important in this scene because they allow the audience to know which characters know what and hear what.  In the film version we watched in class, Iago whispers "Bianca," so Othello does now know when the conversation switches from Desdsemona to Cassio's mistress.  That was a good interpretation because it further demonstrated Iago's wit and ability to smoothly other people.   One of my favorite lines is when Iago says "With her, on her; what you will," (IV.i.43)because it's hilarious to begin with but also gives Othello the chance to imagine his wife with Cassio, which further adds to his rage.  Iago knows precisely what will trigger a response from Othello and he advantageously uses this knowledge to convince him of Desdemona's unfaithfulness.  As I have said in almost every entry, I am still waiting for him to earn the title Greatest Villain of all Time...