characters in othello

Bianca

Cassio's mistress ; used by Iago to make Othello jealous.

Clown

Othello's comic servant; provides light humor between serious scenes.

Sailors / Servants / Attendants

Background characters who serve nobles or help move the story.

Musicians

Hired by Cassio to try to win back Othello's favor.

Torchbearers

Carry lights during nighttime scenes like weddings or arrivals.

Montano

an official in Cyprus, Othello's predecessor in the government of Cyprus

Gentlemen of Cyprus

Minor characters who welcome Othello and Desdemona to the island.

Officers / Messengers / Herald

Announce orders, news, or proclamations during the play.

Othello

A Moorish general in the Venetian army; noble and brave but becomes consumed by jealousy.

Desdemona

Othello's loving and faithful wife; daughter of Brabantio; a venetian lady

Iago

Othello's ensign (assistant) or bearer (standard)

Cassio

Othello's loyal lieutenant; second in command

Emilia

Iago's wife and Desdemona's maid/attendant

Roderigo

A foolish Venetian gentleman in love with Desdemona;

Brabantio

Desdemona's father; a Venetian senator

Duke of Venice

The head of the Venetian government;

Gratiano/Lodovico

Venetian gentleman & kinsman to Brabantio;

Venetian Senator

Other members of the Senate who discuss military and political matters.