Word Bank for Othello

“O, beware, my lord, of jealousy; / It is the green-eyed monster which doth mock / The meat it feeds on.”

Jealousy personified. The colour green is associated with sickness and envy, and the image of the monster suggests that jealousy consumes and torments the person that experiences it. Foreshadows the destructive impact of jealousy on Othello.

“Preferment goes by letter and affection / And not by old gradation”

Reveals Iago’s cynical view of the world. Also highlights the perceived corruption in the Venetian society, which Iago uses to his advantage. Use of word ‘gradation’ suggests a natural order or hierarchy that has been disrupted, reflecting Iago’s belief that he has been denied his rightful place.

“I am not what I am”

This is one of Iago’s most famous and revealing lines. Paradox - a statement that seems self-contradictory but contains a different meaning. Dramatic irony - the audience already knows of Iago’s true nature & deception, which makes his manipulation more spiteful from the beginning.

“Honest Iago”

Repeated use of “Honest Iago” is a powerful example of dramatic irony. The audience knows from the start that Iago is anything but honest, making the repetition deeply ironic & tragic. Also a constant reminder of the character’s vulnerability.

 “I am obedient”

On the surface, this seems to adhere to the Elizabethen gender roles, with Desdemona as an obedient wife; however, this actually shows her survival strategy in a patriarchally dominated society. This quote also highlights the power dynamics within marriage, where Othello holds all the power.

“They eat us hungrily, and when they are full, / They belch us.”

Emilia is shown as a feminist mouthpiece. A stark metaphor of ‘stomachs’ and ‘food’ highlights the objectification of women. ‘Belched’ → suggests the women’s temporary value to men. Cynical view, especially when coming from Emilia, who has experienced the inequalities firsthand

“Old black ram is tupping your white ewe.”

This specifically disregards their relationship & love — painting Othello as a beast. It also infests Brabantio’s mind to think of Othello as a monster who is taking away his daughter’s youthfulness. This taints D’s virginal, respectful nature.

“thick lips”, “devil” “moor” & “barbary horse” “lascivious” overall reference to Othello