book plots

What is Iago's problem, And explain all of his plans

Iago is bitter about being passed over for promotion and suspects Othello of sleeping with his wife, so he schemes to destroy Othello by planting jealousy and framing Desdemona for an imagined affair.

Whose reputations are at stake

Othello, Desdemona, and Cassio's reputations are at risk due to Iago's lies and manipulations.

What has Cassio done, And who tries to help him

Cassio loses his position after a drunken fight; Desdemona tries to help him by pleading with Othello.

What does Desdemona think Othello is mad about when he is really mad about the imagined affair between her and Cassio

Desdemona thinks Othello is upset about matters of state or work-related stress.

Who does Desdemona protect before she dies

Desdemona protects Othello, insisting that she caused her own death.

What does the handkerchief symbolize and why

The handkerchief symbolizes Desdemona's fidelity; when Othello believes it has been given to Cassio, he sees it as proof of her betrayal.

What is Iago's opinion of all women

Iago views women as deceitful, manipulative, and inferior, often mocking both their behavior and virtues.

Give some examples of deception

Iago deceives Othello about Desdemona's loyalty, frames Cassio, manipulates Roderigo into helping him, and lies to his wife, Emilia.

Who is alive in the end and what will become of them

Iago, Cassio, and Emilia survive; Cassio takes Othello's place as governor, while Iago is arrested and will face punishment.

Who are the members of the Caulfield family?

The Caulfield family includes Holden, his parents, his younger sister Phoebe, his deceased brother Allie, and his older brother D.B.

How does Holden feel about each of his siblings?

Holden adores Phoebe for her innocence, idolizes Allie and mourns his death deeply, but resents D.B. for "selling out" to Hollywood.

How does Holden feel about mothers?

Holden views mothers as caring but overly emotional; he is protective of his own mother due to her grief over Allie's death.

What is special about the baseball glove?

The glove belonged to Allie, covered with poems written in green ink, symbolizing Holden's love and longing for his brother.

What is special about the red hunting hat?

The red hunting hat represents Holden's individuality and serves as a protective shield against the world.

What are some things Holden used to do with Jane?

Holden and Jane played checkers, talked for hours, and spent time together in a way that made Holden feel understood and connected.

How is the structure of this book circular?

The novel begins and ends with Holden in a mental institution, recounting the events that led him there.