| I follow him to serve my turn upon him. We cannot all be masters, nor all mastersCannot truly be followed. | Iago to RoderigoAfter learning of Desdemona and Othello’s marriage, he decides he will be good to Othello as a means to take him down. Laying out plans to put up a facade of loyalty.Loyalty, Appearance vs. reality |
| I am not what I am. | Iago to RoderigoHe puts up a facade, fake personality. Biblical reference (satanic)Appearance vs. reality, evil |
| Though I do hate him as I do hellpains,yet, for necessity of present life,I must show out a flag and sign of loveWhich is indeed but sign. | Iago to RoderigoIago truly hates Othello but says he plans to pretend to like him and be loyal to him but he acknowledges it’s all an act.Appearance vs reality, Loyalty |
| My parts, my title, and my perfect soulShall manifest me rightly. | Othello to IagoOthello says that there is nothing wrong with his job performance as a general and him as a person, and these admirable qualities will give him a good life w/o trouble.Insecurity, Reputation |
| Keep up your bright swords, for the dew will rust them. | Othello to Brabantio/Officers/Cronies |
| Look to her, Moor, if thou hast eyes to see.She has deceived her father, and may thee. | Brabantio to Othello |
| Put money in thy purse. | Iago to RoderigoPretending to be a loyal friend, but giving advice that Iago will profit from. Pretending to deliver gifts to Desdemona.Psychology of persuasion, appearance vs. reality |
| My noble father,I do perceive here a divided duty. | Desdemona to Brabantio |
| So please your Grace, my ancientA man he is of honesty and trust.To his conveyance I assign my wife… | Othello to Duke |
| Cassio’s a proper man. let me see now:To get his place and to plume up my willIn double knavery | Iago to himselfBeginning of Iago’s plan to take down both Cassio and Othello. Will exploit his good qualities (looks, charm) and use them against them, gaining status in the process.Evil, Reputation, Loyalty |
| The Moor is of a free and open natureThat thinks men honest that but seem to be so,And will as tenderly be led by th’ noseAs asses are. | Iago to himselfOthello is trusting and Iago will use this to manipulate him. Looks down on Othello. Reputation, Appearance vs. reality |
Othello Act 1 Quotes
August 30, 2019