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OTHELLO Modern Transation PDF
OTHELLO Modern Transation PDF
Act 1, Scene 1
Enter RODMERIGO and IAGO RODERIGO and IAGO enter.
RODERIGO RODERIGO
Tush! Never tell me. I take it much unkindly Come on, dont tell me that. I dont like it that you
That thou, Iago, who hast had my purse knew about this, Iago. All this time Ive thought
As if the strings were thine, shouldst know of this. you were such a good friend that Ive let you
spend my money as if it was yours.
IAGO IAGO
'Sblood, but youll not hear me! If ever I did dream of Damn it, youre not listening to me! I never
such a matter, abhor me. dreamed this was happeningif you find out I
did, you can go ahead and hate me.
RODERIGO RODERIGO
Thou toldst me You told me you hated him.
Thou didst hold him in thy hate.
IAGO IAGO
Despise me I do hate him, I swear. Three of Venices most
If I do not. Three great ones of the city important noblemen took their hats off to him and
10 (In personal suit to make me his lieutenant) asked him humbly to make me his lieutenant, the
Off-capped to him, and by the faith of man second in command. And I know my own worth
I know my price, I am worth no worse a place. well enough to know I deserve that position. But
But he (as loving his own pride and purposes) he wants to have things his own way, so he
Evades them with a bombast circumstance sidesteps the issue with a lot of military talk and
15 Horribly stuffed with epithets of war, refuses their request. Ive already chosen my
And in conclusion lieutenant, he says. And who does he choose? A
Nonsuits my mediators. For Certes, says he, guy who knows more about numbers then
I have already chose my officer. fighting! This guy from Florence named Michael
And what was he? Cassio. He has a pretty wife but he cant even
20 Forsooth, a great arithmetician, control her. And hes definitely never commanded
One Michael Cassio, a Florentine men in battle. Hes got no more hands-on
(A fellow almost damned in a fair wife) knowledge of warfare than an old woman
That never set a squadron in the field, unless you count what hes read in books,
Nor the division of a battle knows
25 More than a spinsterunless the bookish theoric,
IAGO IAGO
Awake! What, ho, Brabantio! Thieves! Thieves! Wake up, Brabantio! Wake up! Thieves! Thieves!
Look to your house, your daughter, and your bags! Check on your daughter, your house, your
Thieves! thieves! money! Thieves! Thieves!
Enter BRABANTIO, above BRABANTIO enters, above.
May be abused? Have you not read, Roderigo, of anything like that, Roderigo?
Of some such thing?
RODERIGO RODERIGO
Yes, sir, I have indeed. Yes, sir, I have.
BRABANTIO BRABANTIO
Call up my brotherOh, would you had had her! Call my brother.Now I wish youd married
175 Some one way, some another. Do you know her!Some of you go one way, some the other
Where we may apprehend her and the Moor? way.Do you know where we can find her and
the Moor?
RODERIGO RODERIGO
I think I can discover him, if you please I think I can find him. Get together a group of
To get good guard and go along with me. armed men and follow me.
Act 1, Scene 2
Enter OTHELLO, IAGO, and attendants with torches OTHELLO and IAGO enter, followed by
attendants with torches.
IAGO IAGO
Though in the trade of war I have slain men, Ive killed many men in battle, but I still believe its
Yet do I hold it very stuff o' th' conscience deeply wrong to murder someone. Sometimes I
To do no contrived murder. I lack iniquity worry Im not cruel enough for this job. Nine or
Sometimes to do me service. Nine or ten times ten times I wanted to stab him under the ribs.
5 I had thought t' have yerked him here under the ribs.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
'Tis better as it is. Its better that you didnt kill him.
IAGO IAGO
Nay, but he prated But he kept chattering so foolishly, talking about
And spoke such scurvy and provoking terms you in such insulting and despicable terms, that it
Against your honor was hard for me to restrain myself. But please tell
That, with the little godliness I have, me, sir, is your marriage secure? Brabantio is an
10 I did full hard forbear him. But I pray you, sir, important man in this city, almost as powerful as
Are you fast married? Be assured of this: the duke himself. Hell try to annul your marriage,
That the Magnifico is much beloved or else inflict whatever punishment the law and
And hath in his effect a voice potential his power will allow him to.
As double as the Dukes. He will divorce you,
15 Or put upon you what restraint and grievance
The law (with all his might to enforce it on)
Will give him cable.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Let him do his spite. Let him do his worst. The services I have done for
My services which I have done the signiory the Venetian government will count for more than
Shall out-tongue his complaints. 'Tis yet to know his complaints will. No one knows this yetand I
20 Which, when I know that boasting is an honor, dont like to brag, but I come from a royal family,
No Fear Shakespeare Othello (by SparkNotes, transcription by Alex Woelffer) -7-
Original Text Modern Text
I shall promulgate. I fetch my life and being and Im as noble as the woman Ive married. And
From men of royal siege, and my demerits let me tell you, Iago, if I didnt love Desdemona as
May speak unbonneted to as proud a fortune much as I do, Id never agree to get married and
As this that I have reached. For know, Iago, lose my freedom at all. But look at those lights.
25 But that I love the gentle Desdemona, Whos coming?
I would not my unhousd free condition
Put into circumscription and confine
For the seas worth. But look, what lights come yond?
IAGO IAGO
50 Faith, he tonight hath boarded a land carrack. Tonight he boarded a treasure ship. If he can
If it prove lawful prize, hes made for ever. keep it, hell be set forever.
CASSIO CASSIO
I do not understand. I dont understand.
IAGO IAGO
Hes married. Hes married.
CASSIO CASSIO
To who? To whom?
IAGO IAGO
Marry, to To
Enter OTHELLO OTHELLO enters.
Come, captain, will you go? Are you ready?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
55 Have with you. Yes, Ill go with you now.
CASSIO CASSIO
Here comes another troop to seek for you. Here comes another group looking for you.
Enter BRABANTIO, RODERIGO, and officers with BRABANTIO and RODERIGO enter, followed
torches and weapons byOFFICERS and men with torches.
IAGO IAGO
It is Brabantio. General, be advised, Its Brabantio. Look out, sir. He intends to do
He comes to bad intent. something bad to you.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Holla! Stand there! Hey! Stop right there!
RODERIGO RODERIGO
Signior, it is the Moor. Sir, its the Moor.
BRABANTIO BRABANTIO
Down with him, thief! Get him, hes a thief!
They draw their swords Both sides draw their swords.
75 Judge me the world if tis not gross in sense Grab him. If he struggles, use force!
That thou hast practiced on her with foul charms,
Abused her delicate youth with drugs or minerals
That weakens motion. Ill have t disputed on.
'Tis probable and palpable to thinking.
80 I therefore apprehend and do attach thee
For an abuser of the world, a practicer
Of arts inhibited and out of warrant.
Lay hold upon him. If he do resist,
Subdue him at his peril!
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Hold your hands, Just a minute. I dont need anyone to tell me
Both you of my inclining and the rest. when to fight. Youve accused me of some
85 Were it my cue to fight, I should have known it serious crimes. Where do you want me to go to
Without a prompter. Whither will you that I go respond to these charges?
To answer this your charge?
Act 1, Scene 3
Enter DUKE, SENATORS, and OFFICERS The DUKE enters
with SENATORS andOFFICERS.
DUKE DUKE
Theres no composition in this news These reports are inconsistent. You cant trust
That gives them credit. them.
FIRST SENATOR FIRST SENATOR
Indeed, they are disproportioned. Its true, theyre inconsistent. My letters say there
My letters say a hundred and seven galleys. are a hundred and seven ships.
No Fear Shakespeare Othello (by SparkNotes, transcription by Alex Woelffer) -10-
Original Text Modern Text
DUKE DUKE
5 And mine a hundred and forty. And mine say a hundred and forty.
SECOND SENATOR SECOND SENATOR
And mine, two hundred. And mine say two hundred. But often in these
But though they jump not on a just account cases, reports are just estimates. The important
As in these cases, where the aim reports thing is that they all say a Turkish fleet is
'Tis oft with differenceyet do they all confirm approaching Cyprus.
A Turkish fleet, and bearing up to Cyprus.
DUKE DUKE
10 Nay, it is possible enough to judgment. Yes, we get the idea. The inconsistency doesnt
I do not so secure me in the error, make me think that the reports are all wrong. I
But the main article I do approve have no doubt about what theyre basically
In fearful sense. saying, and its frightening.
SAILOR SAILOR
(within) (offstage) Hello! Hey, hello!
What, ho, what, ho, what, ho!
OFFICER OFFICER
15 A messenger from the galleys. Its a messenger from the warships.
Enter SAILOR A SAILOR enters.
DUKE DUKE
Now, whats the business? Why are you here?
SAILOR SAILOR
The Turkish preparation makes for Rhodes, Signor Angelo told me to come here and tell you
So was I bid report here to the state that the Turkish fleet is heading for Rhodes, not
By Signior Angelo. Cyprus.
The Ottomites, reverend and gracious, Sir, the Turks sailed to Rhodes, where they joined
Steering with due course toward the isle of Rhodes, with another fleet.
Have there injointed them with an after fleet.
FIRST SENATOR FIRST SENATOR
Ay, so I thought. How many, as you guess? Thats just what I thought. How many, can you
guess?
MESSENGER MESSENGER
40 Of thirty sail. And now they do re-stem Thirty ships. Now theyve turned around and are
Their backward course, bearing with frank clearly heading for Cyprus. Signor Montano, your
appearance brave and loyal servant, gives you this
Their purposes toward Cyprus. Signior Montano, information and asks you to send reinforcements
Your trusty and most valiant servitor, to relieve him.
45 With his free duty recommends you thus,
And prays you to believe him.
She is abused, stol'n from me, and corrupted from me, enchanted by black magic spells. She
By spells and medicines bought of mountebanks. mustve
A maiden never bold, Shes a good girl, quiet and obedient. She
Of spirit so still and quiet that her motion blushes at the slightest thing. And you want me
Blushed at herself. And she, in spite of nature, to believe that despite her young age and proper
100 Of years, of country, credit, everything, upbringing she fell in love with a man shed be
To fall in love with what she feared to look on? afraid to look at? The very thought of it is
It is a judgment maimed and most imperfect ridiculous. Youd have to be stupid to think that
That will confess perfection so could err. someone so perfect could make such an
Against all rules of nature, and must be driven unnatural mistake as that. The devil must be
105 To find out practices of cunning hell behind this. Therefore I say again that he must
Why this should be. I therefore vouch again have used some powerful drug or magic potion
That with some mixtures powerful o'er the blood on her.
Or with some dram, conjured to this effect,
He wrought upon her.
DUKE DUKE
To vouch this is no proof, Your saying this isnt proof. There has to be clear
110 Without more wider and more overt test evidence that hes done this, not just these
Than these thin habits and poor likelihoods accusations.
Of modern seeming do prefer against him.
FIRST SENATOR FIRST SENATOR
But, Othello, speak. Tell us, Othello. Did you trick or deceive this lady
Did you by indirect and forcd courses in some way? Or did you agree to this as
115 Subdue and poison this young maids affections? equals?
Or came it by request and such fair question
As soul to soul affordeth?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
I do beseech you, Please, send for Desdemona to come here from
Send for the lady to the Sagittary, the Sagittarius Inn and ask her to speak about
me in front
Being strong on both sides, are equivocal. elses words. Please, Im asking you, go ahead
But words are words. I never yet did hear and get back to your state affairs.
That the bruised heart was piercd through the ears.
220 I humbly beseech you, proceed to th' affairs of state.
DUKE DUKE
The Turk with a most mighty preparation makes for The Turks are heading for Cyprus with a
Cyprus. Othello, the fortitude of the place is best powerful fleet. Othello, you understand better
known to you, and though we have there a substitute than anyone how the defenses for Cyprus work.
of most allowed sufficiency, yet opinion, a sovereign Even though we have a very good officer in
mistress of effects, throws a more safer voice on charge there already, everyone says youre the
you. You must therefore be content to slubber the better man for the job. So Ill have to ask you to
gloss of your new fortunes with this more stubborn put a damper on your marriage celebrations and
and boist'rous expedition. take part in this dangerous expedition.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
The tyrant custom, most grave senators, Ive gotten used to the hardships of a military life.
Hath made the flinty and steel couch of war I rise to the occasion when faced with difficulties.
My thrice-driven bed of down. I do agnize I will take charge of this war against the Turks.
225 A natural and prompt alacrity But I humbly ask you to make appropriate
I find in hardness, and do undertake arrangements for my wife,
These present wars against the Ottomites.
Most humbly therefore bending to your state,
The rites for which I love him are bereft me, separated from my husband in his natural
And I a heavy interim shall support element. Id be miserable without him. Let me go
By his dear absence. Let me go with him. with him.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
255 Let her have your voice. Please allow her to do this. Im not asking to
Vouch with me, heaven, I therefore beg it not have her near me for sexIm too old for that,
To please the palate of my appetite, and my sexual
Adieu, brave Moor. Use Desdemona well. Goodbye, black Moor. Treat Desdemona well.
BRABANTIO BRABANTIO
Look to her, Moor, if thou hast eyes to see. Keep an eye on her, Moor. She lied to me, and
She has deceived her father, and may thee. she may lie to you.
Exeunt DUKE, BRABANTIO, CASSIO,SENATORS, The DUKE, BRABANTIO, CASSIO,SENATORS,
and officers and officers exit.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
290 My life upon her faith!Honest Iago, Id bet my life shed never lie to me. Iago, Im
My Desdemona must I leave to thee. leaving my dear Desdemona with you. Have your
I prithee, let thy wife attend on her, wife attend to her, and bring them along as soon
And bring them after in the best advantage. as you can. Come on, Desdemona, Ive only got
Come, Desdemona, I have but an hour an hour of love to spend with you, to tell you what
295 Of love, of worldly matter and direction, you need to do. Were on a tight schedule.
To spend with thee. We must obey the time.
Exeunt OTHELLO and DESDEMONA OTHELLO and DESDEMONA exit.
RODERIGO RODERIGO
Iago. Iago.
IAGO IAGO
What sayst thou, noble heart? What do you have to say, noble friend?
RODERIGO RODERIGO
What will I do, thinkst thou? What do you think I should do?
IAGO IAGO
300 Why, go to bed, and sleep. Go to bed, and sleep.
RODERIGO RODERIGO
I will incontinently drown myself. Im going to go drown myself.
with industrywhy, the power and corrigible we didnt have rational minds to counterbalance
authority of this lies in our wills. If the balance of our our emotions and desires, our bodily urges would
lives had not one scale of reason to poise another of take over. Wed end up in ridiculous situations.
sensuality, the blood and baseness of our natures Thankfully, we have reason to cool our raging
would conduct us to most prepost'rous conclusions. lusts. In my opinion, what you call love is just an
But we have reason to cool our raging motions, our offshoot of lust.
carnal stings, our unbitted lusts. Whereof I take this
that you call love to be a sect or scion.
RODERIGO RODERIGO
It cannot be. I dont believe it.
IAGO IAGO
It is merely a lust of the blood and a permission of You feel love because you feel lust and you have
the will. Come, be a man. Drown thyself? Drown cats no willpower. Come on, be a man. Drown
and blind puppies! I have professed me thy friend, yourself? Drowning is for cats or blind puppies
and I confess me knit to thy deserving with cables of dont drown yourself! Ive told you Im your friend,
perdurable toughness. and Ill stick by you.
Act 2, Scene 1
Enter MONTANO and two GENTLEMEN MONTANO and two GENTLEMEN enter.
MONTANO MONTANO
What from the cape can you discern at sea? What can you see out on the ocean?
FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN
Nothing at all. It is a high-wrought flood. Nothing. The waters so rough that I cant see any
I cannot twixt the heaven and the main sails, either in the bay or on the ocean.
Descry a sail.
MONTANO MONTANO
5 Methinks the wind hath spoke aloud at land, It was windy on shore too. A big blast of wind
A fuller blast ne'er shook our battlements. shook our fortifications. How could a ship made
If it hath ruffianed so upon the sea out of wood hold together in those mountainous
What ribs of oak, when mountains melt on them, waves? What do you think will be the result of this
Can hold the mortise? What shall we hear of this? storm?
SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN
10 A segregation of the Turkish fleet. The Turkish navy will be broken up. The winds
For do but stand upon the foaming shore, whipping up the waves so high you expect them
The chidden billow seems to pelt the clouds, to reach the clouds and splash against the stars
The wind-shaked surge, with high and monstrous in the sky. Ive never seen the waters so
mane, disturbed.
15 Seems to cast water on the burning bear,
And quench the guards of th' ever-fixd pole.
I never did like molestation view
On the enchafd flood.
MONTANO MONTANO
If that the Turkish fleet If the Turkish fleet isnt protected in some harbor,
Be not ensheltered and embayed, they are drowned. their men must all be drowned. No ship could
20 It is impossible they bear it out. survive this storm.
Enter a THIRD GENTLEMAN A THIRD GENTLEMAN enters.
MONTANO MONTANO
But good lieutenant, is your general wived? Good lieutenant, is your general married?
CASSIO CASSIO
Most fortunately. He hath achieved a maid Yes, and hes very lucky to have married the woman
6 That paragons description and wild fame, he did. His wife defies description. Shes Gods
5 One that excels the quirks of blazoning pens, masterpiece, and shed exhaust whoever tried to do
And in th' essential vesture of creation her justice while praising her.
Does tire the ingener.
Enter SECOND GENTLEMAN The SECOND GENTLEMAN enters.
How now? Who has put in? Whos arrived in the harbor?
SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN
7 'Tis one Iago, ancient to the general. A man named Iago, the generals ensign.
0
CASSIO CASSIO
Hes had most favorable and happy speed. He made good time. You see how the storm, the
Tempests themselves, high seas, and howling winds, jagged rocks, and the sand banks that trap ships all
The guttered rocks and congregated sands, appreciate a beautiful woman. They let the heavenly
Traitors ensteeped to enclog the guiltless keel, Desdemona arrive safe and sound.
7 As having sense of beauty, do omit
5 Their mortal natures, letting go safely by
The divine Desdemona.
MONTANO MONTANO
What is she? Whos that?
CASSIO CASSIO
She that I spake of, our great captains captain, Shes the one I was talking about, the generals wife.
8 Left in the conduct of the bold Iago, The brave Iago was put in charge of bringing her
0 Whose footing here anticipates our thoughts here, and hes arrived a week sooner than we
A se'nnights speed. Great Jove, Othello guard, expected. Dear God, please protect Othello and help
And swell his sail with thine own powerful breath, him arrive here safely, so he and Desdemona can be
That he may bless this bay with his tall ship, in each others arms, and Othello can cheer us up
Make loves quick pants in Desdemonas arms, and bring comfort to Cyprus.
8 Give renewed fire to our extincted spirits
5 And bring all Cyprus comfort!
Enter DESDEMONA, EMILIA, IAGO, RODERIGOwit DESDEMONA, IAGO, RODERIGO and EMILIAenter
h attendants .
CASSIO CASSIO
The great contention of the sea and skies The storm separated us.
Parted our fellowship
A VOICE A VOICE
100 (within) A sail, a sail! (offstage) A sail! A sail!
CASSIO CASSIO
But, hark! a sail. Listen, theyve spotted another ship!
A shot A gunshot is heard.
SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN
They give this greeting to the citadel. They fired a greeting shot too, so this is also a
This likewise is a friend. friendly ship.
CASSIO CASSIO
See for the news. Go find out the news.
Exit a SECOND GENTLEMEN SECOND GENTLEMAN exits.
Good ancient, you are welcome.Welcome, Ensign Iago, welcome.And welcome to you,
105 mistress. too, madam. (he kisses EMILIA) Dont be upset
(kisses EMILIA) that I kissed your wife hello, Iago. Its a courtesy
Let it not gall your patience, good Iago, where I come from.
That I extend my manners. 'Tis my breeding
That gives me this bold show of courtesy.
You rise to play and go to bed to work. up to have fun, and you start work when you go
to bed.
EMILIA EMILIA
You shall not write my praise. You clearly have nothing good to say about me.
IAGO IAGO
No, let me not. No, I dont.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
What wouldst thou write of me, if thou shouldst But if you had to say something nice about me,
praise me? what would you say?
Not out of absolute lustthough peradventure feed my revenge. I have a feeling the Moor slept
I stand accountant for as great a sin with my wife. That thought keeps gnawing at me,
But partly led to diet my revenge, eating me up inside. I wont be satisfied until I get
220 For that I do suspect the lusty Moor even with him, wife for wife. If I cant do that, I
Hath leaped into my seat. The thought whereof can at least make the Moor so jealous that he
Doth, like a poisonous mineral, gnaw my inwards, cant think straight. If that piece of Venetian trash
And nothing can or shall content my soul Roderigo can do what I need to carry out my
Till I am evened with him, wife for wife. plan, Ill have power over Cassio. Ill say bad
225 Or, failing so, yet that I put the Moor things about him to the Moor. I have a feeling
At least into a jealousy so strong Cassio seduced my wife as well. Ill make the
That judgment cannot cure. Which thing to do, Moor thank me, love me, and reward me, even
If this poor trash of Venice, whom I trace though the joke will be on him the whole time.
For his quick hunting, stand the putting on, Ive got a good plan, though I havent worked out
230 Ill have our Michael Cassio on the hip, the details yet. You can never see the end of an
Abuse him to the Moor in the right garb evil plan until the moment comes.
(For I fear Cassio with my night-cape too)
Make the Moor thank me, love me, and reward me
For making him egregiously an ass
235 And practicing upon his peace and quiet
Even to madness. 'Tis here, but yet confused.
Knaverys plain face is never seen till used.
Exit IAGO exits.
Act 2, Scene 2
Enter Othellos HERALD, with a proclamation Othellos HERALD enters with a proclamation.
HERALD HERALD
It is Othellos pleasure, our noble and valiant general, Our noble and courageous general Othello having
that, upon certain tidings now arrived, importing the been informed that the Turkish fleet has been
mere perdition of the Turkish fleet, every man put completely destroyed, invites every man to
himself into triumph: some to dance, some to make celebrate our victory. Some of you dance, some
bonfires, each man to what sport and revels his of you make bonfires, and every man celebrate in
addiction leads him. For besides these beneficial whatever way he likes to. For besides the good
news, it is the celebration of his nuptial. So much was news, we are also celebrating his marriage. Thats
his pleasure should be proclaimed. All offices are the end of the announcement. There will be a
open, and there is full liberty of feasting from this feast from five o'clock until eleven. God bless the
present hour of five till the bell have told eleven. Bless island of Cyprus and our noble general Othello!
the isle of Cyprus and our noble general Othello!
Exit The HERALD exits.
Act 2, Scene 3
Enter OTHELLO, DESDEMONA, CASSIO, and OTHELLO, DESDEMONA, CASSIO and
attendants attendants enter.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Good Michael, look you to the guard tonight. Good Michael, keep a careful eye on the guards
Lets teach ourselves that honorable stop tonight. Lets exercise restraint and not let the
Not to outsport discretion. party get too wild.
CASSIO CASSIO
Iago hath direction what to do, Iago has orders what to do. But Ill see to it
5 But notwithstanding with my personal eye personally anyway.
Will I look to t.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Iago is most honest. Iagos a good man. Goodnight, Michael. Come
No Fear Shakespeare Othello (by SparkNotes, transcription by Alex Woelffer) -31-
Original Text Modern Text
Michael, good night. Tomorrow with your earliest talk to me tomorrow as early as you can.Come
Let me have speech with you. with me, my dear love. Now that the weddings
Come, my dear love, over, we can have the pleasure of consummating
10 The purchase made, the fruits are to ensue: our marriage. Good night, everyone.
That profits yet to come tween me and you.
Good night.
Exeunt OTHELLO, DESDEMONA, and attendants OTHELLO and DESDEMONA exit with their
attendants.
Enter IAGO IAGO enters.
CASSIO CASSIO
Welcome, Iago. We must to the watch. Hello, Iago. Its time for us to stand guard.
IAGO IAGO
Not this hour, lieutenant, tis not yet ten o' the clock. Not yet, lieutenant. Its not even ten o'clock. The
Our general cast us thus early for the love of his general got rid of us early tonight so he could be
Desdemonawho let us not therefore blame. He with Desdemona.I cant blame him. He hasnt
hath not yet made wanton the night with her, and she spent the night with her yet, and shes beautiful
is sport for Jove. enough to be Joves lover.
CASSIO CASSIO
15 Shes a most exquisite lady. Shes an exquisitely beautiful lady.
IAGO IAGO
And, Ill warrant her, full of game. And I bet shes good in bed too.
here. I am unfortunate in the infirmity, and dare not drinker. I wouldnt dare drink much more than
task my weakness with any more. that.
IAGO IAGO
What, man, tis a night of revels! The gallants desire What are you talking about, man? Tonight is for
it. celebrating! The gentlemen are waiting.
CASSIO CASSIO
Where are they? Where are they?
IAGO IAGO
Here at the door. I pray you call them in. By the door. Please invite them in.
CASSIO CASSIO
Ill do t, but it dislikes me. Ill do it, but I dont like it.
Exit CASSIO exits.
CASSIO CASSIO
55 Fore heaven, an excellent song. My God, what a great song!
IAGO IAGO
I learned it in England where indeed they are most I learned it England, where they have a talent for
potent in potting. Your Dane, your German, and your drinking. The Danes, the Germans, and the
swag-bellied HollanderDrink, ho!are nothing to Dutchcome on, drink, drink!are nothing
your English. compared to the English.
CASSIO CASSIO
Is your Englishman so expert in his drinking? Are Englishmen really such heavy drinkers?
IAGO IAGO
Why, he drinks you with facility your Dane dead They drink Danes under the table, and it takes
drunk; he sweats not to overthrow your Almain. He them no effort at all to out-drink Germans. And
gives your Hollander a vomit ere the next pottle can the Dutch are vomiting while the English are
be filled. asking for refills.
CASSIO CASSIO
To the health of our general! Lets drink to our general!
MONTANO MONTANO
60 I am for it, lieutenant, and Ill do you justice. Hear, hear! Ill drink as much as you do!
IAGO IAGO
Oh, sweet England! Oh, sweet England!
(sings) (he sings)
King Stephen was a worthy peer, King Stephen was a good king, and his pants
His breeches cost him but a crown, were very cheap,
65 He held them sixpence all too dear, But he thought his tailor overcharged him, so
With that he called the tailor lown. he called him a peasant.
He was a wight of high renown, And that was a man of noble rank, much higher
And thou art but of low degree, than you are.
'Tis pride that pulls the country down, So be happy with your worn-out cloak,
70 Then take thine auld cloak about thee. Since pride is ruining the nation.
Some wine, ho! More wine!
CASSIO CASSIO
Why, this is a more exquisite song than the other. God, that songs even better than the other one.
IAGO IAGO
Will you hear t again? Do you want to hear it again?
CASSIO CASSIO
No, for I hold him to be unworthy of his place that No, because we shouldnt be doing thatstuff.
does those things. Well, heavens above all, and Oh well, Gods in charge, and some people have
there be souls must be saved, and there be souls to go to heaven, while other people have to go to
must not be saved. hell.
IAGO IAGO
75 Its true, good lieutenant. Thats true, lieutenant.
is to be saved before the ancient. Lets have no more has to get to heaven before the ensign. But lets
of this, lets to our affairs.Forgive us our sins! stop this drinking and get down to business.
Gentlemen, lets look to our business. Do not think, God forgive our sins!Gentlemen, lets get down
gentlemen, I am drunk. This is my ancient, this is my to business. By the way, I dont want anyone
right hand, and this is my left. I am not drunk now. I thinking Im drunk. This is my ensign. This is my
can stand well enough, and I speak well enough. right hand, and this is my left hand.
Im not drunk. I can stand well enough, and I can
speak just fine.
ALL ALL
Excellent well! Yes, youre speaking very well.
CASSIO CASSIO
80 Why, very well then. You must not think then that I Yes, very well. So dont think that Im drunk.
am drunk.
Exit CASSIO exits.
MONTANO MONTANO
To th' platform, masters. Come, lets set the watch. Lets go to the platform where well stand guard.
Come on.
Exit GENTLEMEN GENTLEMEN exit.
IAGO IAGO
You see this fellow that is gone before, You see that man who just left? Hes a good
He is a soldier fit to stand by Caesar soldier, good enough to be Caesars right-hand
And give direction. And do but see his vice, man. But he has a serious weakness. Its too bad.
85 'Tis to his virtue a just equinox, Im worried that Othello trusts him too much, and
The one as long as th' other. 'Tis pity of him. itll be bad for Cyprus eventually.
I fear the trust Othello puts him in
On some odd time of his infirmity
Will shake this island.
MONTANO MONTANO
But is he often thus? But is he often like this?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
125 What is the matter here? What is the matter here?
MONTANO MONTANO
I bleed still, My God, Im bleeding! Ive been mortally
I am hurt to the death. He dies! wounded. Ill kill him!
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Hold, for your lives! Stop right now!
IAGO IAGO
Hold, ho! Lieutenantsir, Montanogentlemen, Stop! Lieutenantsir, Montanogentlemen!
130 Have you forgot all place of sense and duty? Have you forgotten your duty and your sense of
Hold! The general speaks to you. Hold, for shame! decorum? Stop! The general is talking to you!
Stop, for Gods sake!
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Why, how now, ho! From whence ariseth this? How did this all start? Have we all become as
Are we turned Turks? And to ourselves do that savage as the Turks, treating each other as
Which heaven hath forbid the Ottomites? badly as they would have treated us? For
135 For Christian shame, put by this barbarous brawl. heavens sake, stop this savage brawl! The next
He that stirs next to carve for his own rage man who swings his sword must not care about
Holds his soul light, he dies upon his motion. his life, because the instant he strikes, he dies.
Silence that dreadful bell, it frights the isle Stop that alarm from ringing, its scaring the
From her propriety. What is the matter, masters? islanders. Whats the matter here, gentlemen?
140 Honest Iago, that looks dead with grieving, Honest Iago, you look upset. Speak up and tell
Speak, who began this? On thy love, I charge thee. me who started this. Answer me.
IAGO IAGO
I do not know. Friends all but now, even now, I dont know. We were all having fun until just a
In quarter, and in terms like bride and groom minute ago; we were as happy as a bride and
Divesting them for bed. And then, but now, groom taking off their clothes. But then the mood
145 As if some planet had unwitted men, suddenly changed. It was as if something had
driven the men insane and made them point their
swords at one another. I dont
Your officer Iago can inform you, Iago can tell you what happened. I should save
While I spare speech, which something now offends my breath, since it hurts to talk. I didnt do
me, anything wrong that I know of, unless it was a sin
Of all that I do know. Nor know I aught to defend myself when someone attacked me.
165 By me thats said or done amiss this night,
Unless self-charity be sometimes a vice,
And to defend ourselves it be a sin
When violence assails us.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Now, by heaven, All right, now Im starting to lose my cool. By
My blood begins my safer guides to rule, God, if you dont tell me what happened youll all
And passion, having my best judgment collied, suffer. Tell me how this fight began, who started
170 Assays to lead the way. If I once stir, it. Whoever is guilty, even if he were my twin
brother, I swear Im through with him. Were in a
town thats just
offenseless dog to affright an imperious lion. Sue to got to beat up the weak to frighten the strong. Go
him again and hes yours. to him, petition him. Hell change his mind.
CASSIO CASSIO
I will rather sue to be despised than to deceive so Id rather ask him to hate me than ask such a
good a commander with so slight, so drunken, and good commander to accept such a worthless,
so indiscreet an officer. Drunk? And speak parrot? drunk, stupid officer as myself. Drunk? Babbling
And squabble? Swagger? Swear? And discourse senselessly? Squabbling? Swaggering?
fustian with ones own shadow? O thou invisible Swearing? Ranting and raving to my own
spirit of wine, if thou hast no name to be known by, shadow! Oh, wine is the devil!
let us call thee devil!
IAGO IAGO
What was he that you followed with your sword? Who were you chasing with your sword? What
What had he done to you? did he do to you?
CASSIO CASSIO
230 I know not. I dont know.
IAGO IAGO
Is t possible? Is that possible?
CASSIO CASSIO
I remember a mass of things, but nothing distinctly. I remember a jumble of impressions, but nothing
A quarrel, but nothing wherefore. Oh, that men distinctly. I remember a fight, but not why we
should put an enemy in their mouths to steal away were fighting. Oh God, why do men drink and
their brains! That we should, with joy, pleasance lose their minds? Why do we party until were
revel and applause, transform ourselves into beasts! like animals?
IAGO IAGO
You or any man living may be drunk at a time, man. I Any man can get drunk sometime. Ill tell you
tell you what you shall do. Our generals wife is now what to do. Othellos wife has a lot of influence
the general. I may say so in this respect, for that he now. Hes completely devoted to her. Go open
hath devoted and given up himself to the your heart to her. Ask her to help you get back
contemplation, mark, and denotement of her parts your position. She is so generous, kind, and
and graces. Confess yourself freely to her, ready to help that she thinks its wrong not to do
importune her help to put you in your place again. everything she can, even more than she is asked
She is of so free, so kind, so apt, so blessed a to do. Ask her to help you heal the rift between
disposition, she holds it a vice in her goodness not to her husband and you. Id bet my lucky stars your
do more than she is requested. This broken joint problem will be forgotten, and your relationship
between you and her husband entreat her to splinter, will be stronger than ever.
and, my fortunes against any lay worth naming, this
crack of your love shall grow stronger than it was
before.
Act 3, Scene 1
Enter CASSIO and MUSICIANS CASSIO enters with MUSICIANS.
CASSIO CASSIO
Masters, play here, I will content your pains. Musicians, start playing here. Ill pay you for your
Something thats brief, and bid Good morrow, trouble. Play something short that will put the
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IAGO IAGO
You have not been abed, then? You didnt go to sleep, then?
CASSIO CASSIO
Why, no. The day had broke No. When I left you it was already morning. Ive
Before we parted. I have made bold, Iago, been bold, Iago. Ive asked to talk to your wife.
20 To send in to your wife. My suit to her Im going to ask her to let me talk to Desdemona.
Is that she will to virtuous Desdemona
Procure me some access.
Act 3, Scene 2
Enter OTHELLO, IAGO, and GENTLEMEN OTHELLO, IAGO and GENTLEMEN enter.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
These letters give, Iago, to the pilot, Iago, give these letters to the ships captain who
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And by him do my duties to the senate. brought me here, and ask him to pay my respects
That done, I will be walking on the works, to the Senate of Venice. Now thats done, Im
Repair there to me. going to walk on the fortification walls. Look for
me there when you come back.
IAGO IAGO
5 Well, my good lord, Ill do t. I will, my lord.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
This fortification, gentlemen, shall we see t? Shall we go see this fortification, men?
GENTLEMEN GENTLEMEN
Well wait upon your lordship. Were at your service, my lord.
Exeunt They all exit.
Act 3, Scene 3
Enter DESDEMONA, CASSIO, and EMILIA DESDEMONA, CASSIO and EMILIA enter.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Be thou assured, good Cassio, I will do Ill do everything I can for you, Cassio.
All my abilities in thy behalf.
EMILIA EMILIA
Good madam, do. I warrant it grieves my husband Please do, madam. My husbands so upset about
As if the cause were his. Cassios problem youd think it was his own.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
5 Oh, thats an honest fellow. Do not doubt, Cassio, Your husbands such a good man. Dont worry,
But I will have my lord and you again Cassio. Im sure you and my husband will be as
As friendly as you were. friendly as you were before.
CASSIO CASSIO
Bounteous madam, My dear beautiful lady, whatever happens to
Whatever shall become of Michael Cassio, Michael Cassio, hell always be your humble
Hes never anything but your true servant. servant.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
10 I know t, I thank you. You do love my lord. I know that. Thank you. Youre my husbands
You have known him long, and be you well assured friend and youve known him a long time. I assure
He shall in strangeness stand no farther off you the only reason hes keeping away from you
Than in a polite distance. now is political.
CASSIO CASSIO
Ay, but, lady, Yes, my lady. But those political considerations
That policy may either last so long, might last such a long time that the general will
15 Or feed upon such nice and waterish diet, forget my love and service, especially if Im gone
Or breed itself so out of circumstances, and someone else has my job.
That, I being absent and my place supplied,
My general will forget my love and service.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Do not doubt that. Before Emilia here Thatll never happen. Emilia here will be my
20 I give thee warrant of thy place. Assure thee, witness: I promise you that youll get your position
If I do vow a friendship, Ill perform it back again. And if I promise to help someone, I
To the last article. My lord shall never rest, do everything I can. My husband will never get a
Ill watch him tame and talk him out of patience. moments rest, Ill keep him up at night talking
about you until he runs out
25 Ill intermingle everything he does a conference table for discussing your problem
With Cassios suit. Therefore be merry, Cassio, he wont be able to get away from it. Ill bring up
For thy solicitor shall rather die your name at every moment. So cheer up. Im
Than give thy cause away. your advocate, and Id rather die than give up on
you.
Enter OTHELLO and IAGO OTHELLO and IAGO enter.
EMILIA EMILIA
Madam, here comes my lord. Madam, here comes your husband.
CASSIO CASSIO
Madam, Ill take my leave. Madam, Id better leave now.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Why, stay and hear me speak. Why not stay and hear me talk to him?
CASSIO CASSIO
30 Madam, not now. I am very ill at ease, No, madam. Im very uncomfortable, and that
Unfit for mine own purposes. wont help my case.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Well, do your discretion. Well, do whatever you think best.
Exit CASSIO CASSIO exits.
IAGO IAGO
Ha! I like not that. Hey! I dont like that.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
What dost thou say? What did you say?
IAGO IAGO
35 Nothing, my lord, or ifI know not what. Nothing, my lord, or if I didI dont know what.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Was not that Cassio parted from my wife? Wasnt that Cassio leaving my wife?
IAGO IAGO
Cassio, my lord? No, sure, I cannot think it Cassio, my lord? No, I dont think so. He wouldnt
That he would steal away so guilty-like sneak away looking so guilty when he saw you
Seeing you coming. coming.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
40 I do believe twas he. I really think it was him.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Ay, sooth, so humbled Yes. He feels so bad and humble that I feel bad
That he hath left part of his grief with me along with him. My love, call him back in here.
To suffer with him. Good love, call him back.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
55 Not now, sweet Desdemona. Some other time. Not now, my sweet Desdemona. Some other
time.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
But shall t be shortly? But will it be soon?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
The sooner, sweet, for you. Very soon, because you want it.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Shall t be tonight at supper? Will it be tonight at supper?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
No, not tonight. No, not tonight.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Tomorrow dinner, then? Then tomorrow at dinner?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
I shall not dine at home, I wont be eating dinner at home. Ill be meeting
I meet the captains at the citadel. the captains at the citadel.
Whereon I do beseech thee, grant me this, do one thing for me: leave me alone for a little
85 To leave me but a little to myself. while.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Shall I deny you? No. Farewell, my lord. Would I ever deny you anything? No. Goodbye,
my husband.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Farewell, my Desdemona. Ill come to thee straight. Goodbye, my Desdemona. Ill come see you right
away.
As thou dost ruminate, and give thy worst of your worst suspicions.
thoughts
The worst of words.
IAGO IAGO
Good my lord, pardon me, Please dont make me do that, sir. I have to obey
Though I am bound to every act of duty all your orders, but surely Im not obligated to
140 I am not bound to that all slaves are free to. reveal my deepest thoughtseven slaves arent
Utter my thoughts? Why, say they are vile and false, expected to do that. You want me to say what
As wheres that palace whereinto foul things Im thinking? What if my thoughts are disgusting
Sometimes intrude not? Who has that breast so pure and wrong? Even good people think horrible
Wherein uncleanly apprehensions things sometimes. Who is so pure that they
145 Keep leets and law-days and in sessions sit never think a bad thought?
With meditations lawful?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Thou dost conspire against thy friend, Iago, Youre not being a good friend, Iago, if you
If thou but thinkst him wronged and makst his ear eventhink your friend has been wronged and you
A stranger to thy thoughts. dont tell him about it.
IAGO IAGO
I do beseech you, Please dont ask me to tell you. I might be
150 Though I perchance am vicious in my guess, completely wrong. I have a bad tendency to be
As, I confess, it is my natures plague suspicious of people and to look too closely into
To spy into abuses, and oft my jealousy what theyre doing. Often I imagine crimes that
Shapes faults that are not, that your wisdom, arent really there. You would be wise to ignore
From one that so imperfectly conceits, my weak guesses and imaginary suspicions, and
155 Would take no notice, nor build yourself a trouble dont worry yourself about the meaningless
Out of his scattering and unsure observance. things Ive noticed. For me to tell you my
It were not for your quiet nor your good, thoughts would only destroy your peace of mind,
and
Ha! What?
IAGO IAGO
170 Oh, beware, my lord, of jealousy! Beware of jealousy, my lord! Its a green-eyed
It is the green-eyed monster which doth mock monster that makes fun of the victims it devours.
The meat it feeds on. That cuckold lives in bliss The man who knows his wife is cheating on him
Who, certain of his fate, loves not his wronger, is happy, because at least he isnt friends with
But, oh, what damnd minutes tells he o'er the man shes sleeping with. But think of the
175 Who dotes, yet doubts suspects, yet soundly unhappiness of a man who worships his wife, yet
loves! doubts her faithfulness. He suspects her, but still
loves her.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Oh, misery! Oh, what misery!
IAGO IAGO
Poor and content is rich, and rich enough, The person whos poor and contented is rich
But riches fineless is as poor as winter enough. But infinite riches are nothing to
To him that ever fears he shall be poor. someone whos always afraid hell be poor. God,
180 Good heaven, the souls of all my tribe defend help us not be jealous!
From jealousy!
235 Not to affect many proposd matches frank with you, she veered away from her own
Of her own clime, complexion, and degree, nature in turning down all those young men from
Whereto we see in all things nature tends her own country, with her skin color, with her
Foh! One may smell in such a will most rank, statuseverything her nature would have drawn
Foul disproportions, thoughts unnatural. her toUgh! You can almost smell the dark and
240 Butpardon meI do not in position ugly desires inside her, the unnatural thoughts
Distinctly speak of her, though I may fear ButIm sorryI didnt mean to refer to her
Her will, recoiling to her better judgment, specifically just now. I only worry that she might
May fall to match you with her country forms, snap back to her natural taste in men one day,
And happily repent. and compare you unfavorably to other Italians.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Farewell, farewell. Goodbye, goodbye. If you see anything else, let
245 If more thou dost perceive, let me know more. me know. Tell your wife to watch her. Leave me
Set on thy wife to observe. Leave me, Iago. alone now, Iago.
IAGO IAGO
My lord, I take my leave. (going) My lord, Ill say goodbye now. (beginning to exit)
OTHELLO OTHELLO
(aside) Why did I marry? This honest creature (to himself) Why did I ever get married? Im sure
doubtless this good and honest man sees and knows more,
Sees and knows more, much more, than he unfolds. much more, than hes telling me.
IAGO IAGO
250 (returns) My lord, I would I might entreat your honor (returning) My lord, please dont think about this
To scan this thing no farther. Leave it to time. any more. Time will tell. Its right for Cassio to
Although tis fit that Cassio have his place, have his lieutenancy backhes very talented.
For sure, he fills it up with great ability, But keep him away for a while, and youll see
Yet, if you please to hold him off awhile, how he goes about getting it back. Notice
255 You shall by that perceive him and his means. whether your wife insists on your
Note if your lady strain his entertainment
That we can call these delicate creatures ours than to have only a part of someone I love,
275 And not their appetites! I had rather be a toad sharing the rest of her with others. This is the
And live upon the vapor of a dungeon plague of important menour wives betray us
Than keep a corner in the thing I love more than those of poor men. Its our destiny,
For others' uses. Yet tis the plague to great ones, like death. We are destined to be betrayed when
Prerogatived are they less than the base. we are born. Oh, here she comes.
280 'Tis destiny unshunnable, like death.
Even then this forkd plague is fated to us
When we do quicken. Look where she comes.
Enter DESDEMONA and EMILIA DESDEMONA and EMILIA enter.
If she be false, heaven mocked itself. If shes cheated on me, then heaven itself is a
Ill not believe t. fake. I dont believe it.
As proofs of holy writ. This may do something. handkerchief may be useful to me. The Moors
335 The Moor already changes with my poison. mind has already become infected with my
Dangerous conceits are in their natures poisons poisonous suggestions. Ideas can be like
Which at the first are scarce found to distaste, poisons. At first they hardly even taste bad, but
But with a little act upon the blood once they get into your blood they start burning
Burn like the mines of sulfur. like hot lava.
Enter OTHELLO OTHELLO enters.
I did say so. Here he comes. No drugs or sleeping pills will
340 Look, where he comes. Not poppy nor mandragora ever give you the restful sleep that you had last
Nor all the drowsy syrups of the world, night.
Shall ever medicine thee to that sweet sleep
Which thou owedst yesterday.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Ha! Ha! False to me? Argh! Shes cheating on me?
IAGO IAGO
Why, how now, general? No more of that. Oh, general, please, no more of that!
370 Be sure of it. Give me the ocular proof wifes a whore! Be sure of it. Get me proof I can
Or by the worth of mine eternal soul see. If you cant, trust me, you wont want to feel
Thou hadst been better have been born a dog my rage!
Than answer my waked wrath!
OTHELLO OTHELLO
But this denoted a foregone conclusion. But it shows that something has already
happened.
IAGO IAGO
'Tis a shrewd doubt, though it be but a dream. Its a reason for suspicion, even though its just a
440 And this may help to thicken other proofs dream. And it might back up other evidence that
That do demonstrate thinly. may seem too flimsy.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Ill tear her all to pieces! Ill tear her to pieces!
IAGO IAGO
Nay, yet be wise, yet we see nothing done, No, be reasonable. We dont have any proof yet.
She may be honest yet. Tell me but this, She might still be faithful. Just tell me this: have
Have you not sometimes seen a handkerchief you ever seen her holding a handkerchief with an
445 Spotted with strawberries in your wifes hand? embroidered strawberry pattern on it?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
I gave her such a one, twas my first gift. Yes, I gave her one like that. It was my first gift to
her.
IAGO IAGO
I know not that, but such a handkerchief I dont know about that, but I saw a handkerchief
I am sure it was your wifesdid I today like that today. Im sure it belongs to your wife,
See Cassio wipe his beard with. and I saw Cassio use it to wipe his beard.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
If it be that If its the same one
IAGO IAGO
450 If it be that, or any that was hers, If its the same one, or any one that belongs to
It speaks against her with the other proofs. her, then together with the other evidence its
pretty strong.
Act 3, Scene 4
Enter DESDEMONA, EMILIA, and CLOWN DESDEMONA, EMILIA and the CLOWN enter.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Do you know, sirrah, where Lieutenant Cassio lies? Excuse me, do you know which room Lieutenant
Cassio lies in?
CLOWN CLOWN
I dare not say he lies anywhere. I wouldnt dare say he lies anywhere.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Why, man? Why do you say that?
CLOWN CLOWN
Hes a soldier, and for one to say a soldier lies, tis Hes a soldier. If I accused a soldier of lying, hed
stabbing. stab me.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
5 Go to. Where lodges he? Oh, come on. Where does he sleep?
CLOWN CLOWN
To tell you where he lodges is to tell you where I lie. Telling you where hes sleeping is like telling you
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where Im lying.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Can anything be made of this? What on earth does that mean?
CLOWN CLOWN
I know not where he lodges, and for me to devise a I dont know where hes staying, so if I told you
lodging and say he lies here, or he lies there, were to hes sleeping here or there, Id be lying.
lie in mine own throat.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Can you inquire him out and be edified by report? Can you ask around and find out?
CLOWN CLOWN
10 I will catechize the world for him, that is, make Ill go ask questions everywhere.
questions, and by them answer.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Seek him, bid him come hither. Tell him I have Find him and tell him to come here. Tell him Ive
moved my lord on his behalf, and hope all will be spoken to my husband on his behalf, and I think
well. everything will be all right.
CLOWN CLOWN
To do this is within the compass of mans wit, and I think I can do that. Its not too much to ask.
therefore I will attempt the doing it.
Exit CLOWN exits.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Give me your hand. This hand is moist, my lady. Give me your hand. Your hands moist, my lady.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
It hath felt no age nor known no sorrow. Its moist because its still young and
inexperienced.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
30 This argues fruitfulness and liberal heart. It says youre fertile, and youve got a giving
Hot, hot, and moist. This hand of yours requires heart. Hot, hot and moist. With a hand like this
A sequester from liberty, fasting, and prayer, you need to
The thoughts of people. She told her, while she kept almost read peoples thoughts. She told my
50 it mother that as long as she kept it with her, my
'Twould make her amiable and subdue my father father would love and desire her. But if she lost it
Entirely to her love, but if she lost it or gave it away, my father would start hating her
Or made gift of it, my fathers eye and looking at other women. When she was dying
Should hold her loathd and his spirits should hunt she gave it to me and told me to give it to my wife
55 After new fancies. She, dying, gave it me when I got married. I did. So pay attention. Treat
And bid me, when my fate would have me wived, it as something precious. Losing it or giving it
To give it her. I did so, and take heed on t, away would be an unspeakable loss, a loss like
Make it a darling like your precious eye. none other.
To lose t or give t away were such perdition
As nothing else could match.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Is t possible? Is that possible?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
60 'Tis true. Theres magic in the web of it. Yes, its true. Theres magic in its fabric. A two-
A sibyl, that had numbered in the world hundred-year-old witch sewed it while she was in
The sun to course two hundred compasses, a fevered trance. The silk came from sacred
In her prophetic fury sewed the work. silkworms, and it was dyed with fluid made from
The worms were hallowed that did breed the silk, embalmed virgins' hearts.
65 And it was dyed in mummy which the skillful
Conserved of maidens' hearts.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Indeed? Is t true? Really? Is that true?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Most veritable, therefore look to t well. Its absolutely true, so take good care of it.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Then would to Heaven that I had never seen t! I wish I had never seen it!
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Ha! Wherefore? Ha! Why?
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
70 Why do you speak so startingly and rash? Why are you yelling at me so angrily?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Is t lost? Is t gone? Speak, is t out o' th' way? Is it lost? Is it gone? Tell me, is it missing?
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Bless us! God help me!
Pray you, let Cassio be received again. Please hire Cassio again.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
80 Fetch me the handkerchiefmy mind misgives. Bring me the handkerchiefMy mind is full of
doubt.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Come, come, Come on. You know youll never find a more
Youll never meet a more sufficient man. capable man.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
The handkerchief! The handkerchief!
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
A man that all his time Hes counted on your friendship for his success.
Hath founded his good fortunes on your love, Hes shared dangers with you
85 Shared dangers with you
OTHELLO OTHELLO
The handkerchief! The handkerchief!
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
In sooth, you are to blame. Really, I dont think youre behaving very well.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Away! Damn it!
Exit OTHELLO exits.
EMILIA EMILIA
Is not this man jealous? And you say hes not jealous?
State matters, as you think, and no conception think, and not jealousy involving you.
145 Nor no jealous toy concerning you.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Alas the day! I never gave him cause. Oh no! I never gave him reason to be jealous.
EMILIA EMILIA
But jealous souls will not be answered so. But jealous people dont think like that. Theyre
They are not ever jealous for the cause, never jealous for a reason; theyre just jealous.
But jealous for theyre jealous. It is a monster Its like a monster that just grows and grows, out
150 Begot upon itself, born on itself. of nothing.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Heaven keep the monster from Othellos mind! I hope God keeps that monster from growing in
Othellos mind!
EMILIA EMILIA
Lady, amen. Amen to that, lady.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
I will go seek him.Cassio, walk hereabout. Ill go look for himCassio, stay around here. If
If I do find him fit, Ill move your suit hes in a good mood Ill mention you again, and
155 And seek to effect it to my uttermost. do everything I can.
CASSIO CASSIO
I humbly thank your ladyship. I thank you, lady.
Exeunt DESDEMONA and EMILIA DESDEMONA and EMILIA exit.
Enter BIANCA BIANCA enters.
BIANCA BIANCA
Save you, friend Cassio! Hello, Cassio!
From whence you have them. You are jealous now this is from some mistress of mine, but I swear
175 That this is from some mistress, some its not, Bianca.
remembrance.
No, in good troth, Bianca.
BIANCA BIANCA
Why, whose is it? Well, whose is it?
CASSIO CASSIO
I know not neither, I found it in my chamber. I dont even know. I found it in my room. Its
I like the work well. Ere it be demanded, pretty. Someone is certainly looking for it, and Ill
As like enough it will, I would have it copied. have to give it back. So Id like it copied. Take it
180 Take it and do t, and leave me for this time. and do that for me, and leave me alone for a
while.
BIANCA BIANCA
Leave you! Wherefore? Leave you alone! Why?
Act 4, Scene 1
Enter OTHELLO and IAGO OTHELLO and IAGO enter.
IAGO IAGO
Will you think so? Do you really think so?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Think so, Iago? What do you mean, do I think so?
IAGO IAGO
What, What, just because they kissed in private?
To kiss in private?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
An unauthorized kiss! An illicit kiss!
IAGO IAGO
Or to be naked with her friend in bed Maybe she was just naked in bed with him for an
An hour or more, not meaning any harm? hour or so, but they didnt do anything.
No Fear Shakespeare Othello (by SparkNotes, transcription by Alex Woelffer) -67-
Original Text Modern Text
OTHELLO OTHELLO
5 Naked in bed, Iago, and not mean harm! Naked in bed together, but without doing
It is hypocrisy against the devil. anything? Come on, Iago. That would be like
They that mean virtuously, and yet do so, playing a trick on the devil: theyd make him think
The devil their virtue tempts, and they tempt heaven. theyre going to commit adultery, but then back
off. Anyone who acted like that would be letting
the devil tempt them, and tempting God to
condemn them.
IAGO IAGO
So they do nothing, tis a venial slip. As long as they didnt do anything, it would only
10 But if I give my wife a handkerchief be a minor sin. But if I gave my wife a
handkerchief
OTHELLO OTHELLO
What then? Then what?
IAGO IAGO
Why then tis hers, my lord, and, being hers, Then its hers. And if its hers, I guess she can
She may, I think, bestow t on any man. give it to any man she wants.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
She is protectress of her honor too. Her reputation is also her own. Can she give that
15 May she give that? away too?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
What? what? He what?
IAGO IAGO
Lie He was in bed with
OTHELLO OTHELLO
With her? With her?
Now will I question Cassio of Bianca, Now Ill ask Cassio about Bianca, a prostitute
A huswife that by selling her desires who sells her body for food and clothes. Shes
85 Buys herself bread and clothes. It is a creature crazy about Cassio. Thats the whores curse, to
That dotes on Cassio, as tis the strumpets plague seduce many men, but to be seduced by one.
To beguile many and be beguiled by one. Whenever he talks about her he cant stop
He, when he hears of her, cannot refrain laughing.
From the excess of laughter. Here he comes.
Enter CASSIO CASSIO enters.
90 As he shall smile, Othello shall go mad. And when he laughs, Othello will go crazy. In his
And his unbookish jealousy must construe ignorant jealousy, hell totally misunderstand
Poor Cassios smiles, gestures, and light behavior Cassios smiles, gestures, and jokes.How are
Quite in the wrong.How do you now, lieutenant? you, lieutenant?
110 So, so, so, so! They laugh that win! So, so, so, so! The winners always got the last
laugh, hasnt he?
125 Let the devil and his dam haunt you! What did you Damn you! What did you mean by giving me this
mean by that same handkerchief you gave me even handkerchief? I was an idiot to take it! You want
now? I was a fine fool to take it. I must take out the me to copy the embroidery pattern? That was a
work? A likely piece of work, that you should find it in likely story, that you found it in your room and
your chamber, and not know who left it there! This is didnt know who it belonged to. This is a love
some minxs token, and I must take out the work? token from some other slut, and you want me to
There, give it your hobby-horse. Wheresoever you copy its pattern for you? Give it back to her, I
had it, Ill take out no work on t. wont do anything with it.
CASSIO CASSIO
How now, my sweet Bianca! How now, how now? What is it, my dear Bianca? Whats wrong?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
By heaven, that should be my handkerchief! My God, thats my handkerchief!
BIANCA BIANCA
If youll come to supper tonight, you may. If you will If you want to come have dinner with me, you
not, come when you are next prepared for. can. If you dont want to, then good riddance.
Exit BIANCA exits.
IAGO IAGO
After her, after her. Go after her, go.
CASSIO CASSIO
130 I must, shell rail in the street else. Actually, I should. Shell scream in the streets if I
dont.
IAGO IAGO
Will you sup there? Will you be having dinner with her tonight?
CASSIO CASSIO
Yes, I intend so. Yes, I will.
IAGO IAGO
Well, I may chance to see you, for I would very fain Well, maybe Ill see you there. Id really like to
speak with you. speak with you.
CASSIO CASSIO
Prithee come, will you? Please come. Will you?
IAGO IAGO
135 Go to! Say no more. Dont talk anymore, go after her.
Exit CASSIO CASSIO exits.
Do it not with poison. Strangle her in her bed, even Dont do it with poison. Strangle her in her bed,
the bed she hath contaminated. the same bed shes contaminated.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Good, good, the justice of it pleases! Very good! Good, good, I like thatits only fair! Very good!
IAGO IAGO
And for Cassio, let me be his undertaker. You shall And let me kill Cassio. Youll hear more from me
hear more by midnight. by midnight.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
160 Excellent good. Excellent, good.
A trumpet within A trumpet sounds offstage.
LODOVICO LODOVICO
175 He did not call, hes busy in the paper. He didnt say anything, hes reading. So theres a
Is there division twixt my lord and Cassio? rift between Othello and Cassio?
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
A most unhappy one. I would do much Yes, unfortunately. Id do anything to bring them
T' atone them, for the love I bear to Cassio. back together, since I really care for Cassio.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Fire and brimstone! Damn it all!
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
My lord? Excuse me, my lord?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Are you wise? Are you in your right mind?
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
180 What, is he angry? Is he angry?
LODOVICO LODOVICO
Maybe the letter moved him, Maybe the letter upset him. I think they want him
For, as I think, they do command him home, to go home and appoint Cassio governor in his
Deputing Cassio in his government. place.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Trust me, I am glad on t. Im happy about that.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Indeed! Oh, are you really!
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
185 My lord? My lord?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
I am glad to see you mad. Im glad youre insane enough to admit it in front
of me.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Why, sweet Othello Why, sweet Othello
OTHELLO OTHELLO
(striking her) Devil! (striking her) You devil!
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
I have not deserved this. I havent done anything to deserve this!
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Mistress! Madam!
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
200 My lord? My lord?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
What would you with her, sir? What do you want with her, sir?
LODOVICO LODOVICO
Who, I, my lord? Who, me?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Ay, you did wish that I would make her turn. Yes, you asked me to call her back. See how
Sir, she can turn, and turn, and yet go on, well she can turn? She can turn and turn, and
205 And turn again. And she can weep, sir, weep. then turn on you again. And she can cry, siroh,
And shes obedient, as you say, obedient, how she can cry! And shes obedient, as you
Very obedient.Proceed you in your tears. say, obedient. Very obedientkeep crying.
Concerning this, sirOh, well-painted passion! Concerning thisoh, what fake emotion!I am
I am commanded home.Get you away, being ordered homeGet away from me, Ill
210 Ill send for you anon.Sir, I obey the mandate send for you later.Sir, Ill obey the order and
And will return to Venice.Hence, avaunt! return to Venice. Get away from me, you witch!
Exit DESDEMONA DESDEMONA exits.
IAGO IAGO
Alas, alas! Oh, its too bad! It wouldnt be right for me to tell
It is not honesty in me to speak you everything Ive seen and heard. Youll see
What I have seen and known. You shall observe what hes like. His own actions will show you
230 him, what kind of person he is, so I wont have to
And his own courses will denote him so bother telling you. Just go after him and watch
That I may save my speech. Do but go after what he does next.
And mark how he continues.
LODOVICO LODOVICO
I am sorry that I am deceived in him. Im sorry I was so wrong about him.
Exeunt They exit.
Act 4, Scene 2
Enter OTHELLO and EMILIA OTHELLO and EMILIA enter.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
You have seen nothing then? You havent seen anything, then?
EMILIA EMILIA
Nor ever heard, nor ever did suspect. No, and I didnt hear anything either, or suspect
anything at all.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Yes, you have seen Cassio and she together. But youve seen her and Cassio together.
EMILIA EMILIA
But then I saw no harm, and then I heard Yes, but I didnt see anything wrong, and I heard
5 Each syllable that breath made up between them. every syllable they said.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
What, did they never whisper? Didnt they ever whisper?
EMILIA EMILIA
Never, my lord. Never, my lord.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Nor send you out o' th' way? Or ask you to leave the room?
EMILIA EMILIA
Never. Never.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
10 To fetch her fan, her gloves, her mask, nor nothing? Not even to get her fan, or her gloves, or her
mask, or anything?
EMILIA EMILIA
Never, my lord. No, my lord.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Thats strange. Thats strange.
EMILIA EMILIA
I durst, my lord, to wager she is honest, Id swear to you on my soul that shes a good,
Lay down my soul at stake. If you think other honest person, sir. If you suspect otherwise, stop
15 Remove your thought, it doth abuse your bosom. thinking that right now because youre wrong. If
If any wretch have put this in your head any jerk has tried to convince you shes bad, I
Let heaven requite it with the serpents curse hope God curses him. If shes not honest, faithful,
For if she be not honest, chaste, and true and true, then theres no such thing as a faithful
Theres no man happy. The purest of their wives wife or a happy husband.
20 Is foul as slander.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Bid her come hither. Go. Tell her to come here. Go.
Exit EMILIA EMILIA exits.
She says enough, yet shes a simple bawd She says all the right things, but the dumbest
That cannot say as much. This is a subtle whore, brothel-keeper would tell the same story.
A closet, lock and key, of villainous secrets. Desdemonas a tricky whore with a closet full of
And yet shell kneel and pray, I have seen her do t. awful secrets, but still shell kneel and pray like an
honest woman. Ive seen her do it.
Enter DESDEMONA with EMILIA DESDEMONA and EMILIA enter.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
25 My lord, what is your will? My lord, what do you want?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Pray, chuck, come hither. Please, dear, come here.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
What is your pleasure? What can I do for you?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Let me see your eyes. Let me see your eyes. Look at my face.
Look in my face.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
What horrible fancys this? What horrible thing are you imagining?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
(to EMILIA) Some of your function, mistress, (to EMILIA) Go do what you do best, madam.
30 Leave procreants alone and shut the door. Leave us alone for our hanky-panky, and shut the
Cough or cry hem if any body come. door behind you. If somebody comes, give a
Your mystery, your mystery! Nay, dispatch! shout. Thats your job, your job. Go on, hurry!
Exit EMILIA EMILIA exits.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Upon my knee, what doth your speech import? Im begging you on my knees to tell me what your
I understand a fury in your words, words mean. I can tell youre furious, but I dont
35 But not the words. understand what youre saying.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Why, what art thou? Why? Who are you?
Impudent strumpet!
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
By heaven, you do me wrong! I swear to God youre accusing me wrongly!
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
I have none. Do not talk to me, Emilia. I dont have a lord. Dont talk to me, Emilia. I
I cannot weep, nor answers have I none, cant even cry, though tears are the only answers
But what should go by water. Prithee, tonight I could give to all your questions. Tonight put my
Lay on my bed my wedding sheets. Remember, wedding sheets on my bed, and tell your
110 And call thy husband hither. husband to come to me now.
EMILIA EMILIA
Heres a change indeed! Things have certainly changed!
Exit EMILIA exits.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
'Tis meet I should be used so, very meet. Its fair for him to treat me like this, very fair.
How have I been behaved that he might stick What have I ever done that he has anything to
The smallst opinion on my least misuse? complain about?
Enter EMILIA with IAGO IAGO and EMILIA enter.
IAGO IAGO
What is your pleasure, madam? How is t with you? What can I do for you, madam? How are you?
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
115 I cannot tell. Those that do teach young babes I dont know. When grown-ups teach little
Do it with gentle means and easy tasks. children, they do it gently and easily. He might
He might have chid me so, for, in good faith, have treated me like that, because Im as unused
I am a child to chiding. to abuse as a little child.
IAGO IAGO
What is the matter, lady? Whats the matter, lady?
Comfort forswear me! Unkindness may do much, never destroy my love. I cant say whore. It
165 And his unkindness may defeat my life, makes me sick to say the word even now. I
But never taint my love. I cannot say whore, wouldnt do the thing that would make me a
It does abhor me now I speak the word. whore for all the money in the world.
To do the act that might the addition earn
Not the worlds mass of vanity could make me.
IAGO IAGO
170 I pray you, be content, tis but his humor. Please calm down. Hes just in a bad mood.
The business of the state does him offence, Political business is bothering him, and hes just
And he does chide with you. taking it out on you.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
If twere no other If only that were all it is
IAGO IAGO
'Tis but so, I warrant. It is, I promise.
Trumpets sound Trumpets sound.
175 Hark, how these instruments summon to supper. Those trumpets are calling us in to dinner. The
The messengers of Venice stays the meat. Venetians are waiting for their food. Go in, and
Go in, and weep not. All things shall be well. dont cry. Everything will be all right.
Exeunt DESDEMONA and EMILIA DESDEMONA and EMILIA exit.
Enter RODERIGO RODERIGO enters.
How now, Roderigo! How are you, Roderigo?
RODERIGO RODERIGO
I do not find that thou dealst justly with me. I dont think youre treating me fairly.
IAGO IAGO
180 What in the contrary? What makes you say that?
RODERIGO RODERIGO
Every day thou daffst me with some device, Iago, Every day you put me off with some trick. Instead
and rather, as it seems to me now, keepst from me of finding opportunities for me, you seem to be
all conveniency than suppliest me with the least preventing me from making any progress.
advantage of hope.
200 How do you mean, removing of him? What do you mean, get rid of him?
IAGO IAGO
Why, by making him uncapable of Othellos place: I mean knock his brains out, so he cant take
knocking out his brains. Othellos place.
RODERIGO RODERIGO
And that you would have me to do! And thats what you want me to do!
Act 4, Scene 3
Enter OTHELLO, LODOVICO, DESDEMONA,EMILI OTHELLO, LODOVICO, DESDEMONA andEMILIA
A and attendants enter, with attendants.
LODOVICO LODOVICO
I do beseech you, sir, trouble yourself no further. Please, sir, dont trouble yourself.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Oh, pardon me, twill do me good to walk. I beg your pardon; walking will make me feel better.
LODOVICO LODOVICO
Madam, good night. I humbly thank your ladyship. Good night, madam. Thank you.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Your honor is most welcome. Youre most welcome.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
5 Will you walk, sir?O Desdemona Would you walk out with me, sir?Oh,
Desdemona
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
My lord? Yes, my lord?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Get you to bed on th' instant, I will be returned Go to bed right this minute. Ill be there shortly. Send
Forthwith. Dismiss your attendant there, look t be your maid Emilia away. Make sure you do what I say.
done.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
I will, my lord. I will, my lord.
Exeunt OTHELLO, LODOVICO, and attendants OTHELLO, LODOVICO, and attendants
No Fear Shakespeare Othello (by SparkNotes, transcription by Alex Woelffer) -86-
Original Text Modern Text
exit.
EMILIA How are things now? He looks calmer than he did
1 How goes it now? He looks gentler than he did. before.
0
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
He says he will return incontinent, He says hell come back right away. He asked me to
And hath commanded me to go to bed go to bed and to send you away.
And bid me to dismiss you.
EMILIA EMILIA
Dismiss me? Send me away?
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
It was his bidding. Therefore, good Emilia, Thats what he said. So give me my nightgown,
1 Give me my nightly wearing, and adieu. Emilia, and Ill say goodnight. We shouldnt displease
5 We must not now displease him. him.
I know a lady in Venice would have walked barefoot I know a lady in Venice whod walk all the way to
to Palestine for a touch of his nether lip. Palestine for a kiss from him.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
80 Good night, good night. Heaven me such uses send, Good night, good night. I pray that God will let me
Not to pick bad from bad, but by bad mend! learn from women like thatnot to follow their
bad example, but to avoid it!
Exeunt They exit.
Act 5, Scene 1
Enter IAGO and RODERIGO IAGO and RODERIGO enter.
IAGO IAGO
Here, stand behind this bulk, straight will he come. Here, stand behind this wall; hell come right
Wear thy good rapier bare, and put it home. away. Keep your sword out, and then stick it in as
Quick, quick! Fear nothing. Ill be at thy elbow. far as itll go. Quick, quick. Dont be afraid. Ill be
It makes us, or it mars us. Think on that, right next to you. This will either make us or break
5 And fix most firm thy resolution. us. Keep that in mind, and be steady.
RODERIGO RODERIGO
Be near at hand, I may miscarry in t. Stay right near me. I may mess it up.
IAGO IAGO
Here, at thy hand. Be bold, and take thy stand. Im right behind you. Be bold, and get ready.
Withdraws IAGO moves aside.
RODERIGO RODERIGO
I have no great devotion to the deed I dont really want to do this, but hes given me
And yet he hath given me satisfying reasons. good reasons. I guess its only one manno big
10 'Tis but a man gone. Forth, my sword: he dies. deal. My sword comes out, and he dies.
IAGO IAGO
(aside) I have rubbed this young quat almost to the (to himself) Ive rubbed this young pimple until
sense, hes ready to pop, and now hes angry. Whether
And he grows angry. Now, whether he kill Cassio he kills Cassio, or Cassio kills him, or they kill
Or Cassio him, or each do kill the other, each other, it all works in my favor. If Roderigo
15 Every way makes my gain. Live Roderigo, survives, though, hell ask me for all the gold and
He calls me to a restitution large jewelry that I stole from him and said I gave to
Of gold and jewels that I bobbed from him Desdemona. I cant let that happen. If Cassio
As gifts to Desdemona. survives,hes so handsome and well-spoken that
It must not be. If Cassio do remain he makes me look ugly. And besides, the Moor
20 He hath a daily beauty in his life might tell him about my lies about him.That
That makes me ugly. And besides, the Moor would be very dangerous for me. No, hes got to
May unfold me to himthere stand I in much peril. die. Let it be so. I hear him coming.
No, he must die. But so, I hear him coming.
IAGO from behind wounds CASSIO in the legs, exits From behind, IAGO stabs CASSIO in the leg and
then exits.
CASSIO CASSIO
I am maimed for ever. Help, ho! Murder! Murder! Ill be crippled forever! Help! Murder! murder!
Enter OTHELLO OTHELLO enters.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
The voice of Cassio. Iago keeps his word. Thats Cassios voice. Iago has kept his word.
RODERIGO RODERIGO
Oh, villain that I am! Oh, what a villain I am!
OTHELLO OTHELLO
30 It is even so. Thats the truth.
CASSIO CASSIO
Oh, help, ho! Light! A surgeon! Help me! Get some light! Get me a surgeon!
OTHELLO OTHELLO
'Tis he. Oh, brave Iago, honest and just, Its him! Brave Iago, how honest and trustworthy
That hast such noble sense of thy friends wrong! you are! You even went as far as murder to help
your friend in his misfortune. You teach me how I
should act.
LODOVICO LODOVICO
As you shall prove us, praise us. Judge for yourself.
IAGO IAGO
Signior Lodovico? Signor Lodovico?
LODOVICO LODOVICO
70 He, sir. Thats me.
IAGO IAGO
I cry you mercy. Heres Cassio hurt by villains. I beg your pardon. Cassios been wounded.
GRATIANO GRATIANO
Cassio! Cassio!
IAGO IAGO
How is t, brother! How are you doing, brother?
CASSIO CASSIO
My leg is cut in two. My legs been cut in two.
IAGO IAGO
75 Marry, heaven forbid! God forbid! Bring me some light, gentlemen, Ill
Light, gentlemen, Ill bind it with my shirt. bind the wound with my shirt.
Enter BIANCA BIANCA enters.
BIANCA BIANCA
What is the matter, ho? Who is t that cried? Whats the matter? Whos shouting?
IAGO IAGO
Who is t that cried? Whos shouting?
BIANCA BIANCA
Oh, my dear Cassio! Oh, my dear Cassio! My sweet Cassio! Oh,
My sweet Cassio! O Cassio, Cassio, Cassio! Cassio, Cassio, Cassio!
IAGO IAGO
80 O notable strumpet! Cassio, may you suspect You notorious whore! Cassio, do you know who
Who they should be that have thus mangled you? might have stabbed you like this?
Even he, sir. Did you know him? Thats the one, sir. Do you know him?
GRATIANO GRATIANO
95 Know him? Ay. Know him? Yes.
IAGO IAGO
Signior Gratiano? I cry you gentle pardon, Signor Gratiano, I beg your pardon. I didnt mean
These bloody accidents must excuse my manners to ignore youits just because of this bloody
That so neglected you. uproar.
GRATIANO GRATIANO
I am glad to see you. Im glad to see you.
IAGO IAGO
How do you, Cassio?Oh, a chair, a chair! How are you doing, Cassio?Someone bring
me a stretcher!
GRATIANO GRATIANO
100 Roderigo! Roderigo!
IAGO IAGO
He, he, tis he. Its him, its him.
A chair is brought in A stretcher is brought in.
This is the fruits of whoring. Prithee, Emilia, This is what happens when you visit whores.
120 Go know of Cassio where he supped tonight. Please, Emilia, ask Cassio where he was at
(to BIANCA) What, do you shake at that? dinner tonight.(to BIANCA) What, does that
make you nervous?
Act 5, Scene 2
DESDEMONA asleep in bed Enter OTHELLO with a DESDEMONA is asleep in bed. OTHELLOenters
light with a candle.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
It is the cause, it is the cause, my soul. I have to do it, I have to do it. I have to keep my
Let me not name it to you, you chaste stars, reason in mind. I wont say out loud what my
It is the cause. Yet Ill not shed her blood, reason is, but I have to do it. But I wont shed any
Nor scar that whiter skin of hers than snow of her blood or scar that beautiful skin, whiter
5 And smooth as monumental alabaster. than snow and smooth as the finest marble. But
Yet she must die, else shell betray more men. shes got to die, or shell cheat on other men. Put
Put out the light, and then put out the light. out the light of the candle, and then put out the
If I quench thee, thou flaming minister, light of her heart. If I extinguish the candle, I can
I can again thy former light restore light it again if I regret it. But once I kill you, you
10 Should I repent me. But once put out thy light, beautiful, fake woman, I do not know the magic
Thou cunningst pattern of excelling nature, that could bring you back. When Ive plucked this
I know not where is that Promethean heat rose, I cant make it grow again; it will have no
That can thy light relume. When I have plucked thy choice but to wither and die. Let me smell you
rose while youre still on the tree. (he kisses her) Oh,
15 I cannot give it vital growth again, that sweet breath almost convinces me not to kill
It must needs wither. Ill smell thee on the tree. you and carry out justice. One more, one more
Oh, balmy breath, that dost almost persuade kiss. If youre this beautiful when youre dead, Ill
Justice to break her sword! One more, one more. kill you and then love you afterward. (kissing
No Fear Shakespeare Othello (by SparkNotes, transcription by Alex Woelffer) -95-
Original Text Modern Text
Be thus when thou art dead and I will kill thee her) One more, and this is the last. Such a sweet
20 And love thee after. (kissing her) One more, and kiss was never so deadly. I have to cry, but I have
thats the last. to be cruel too. Im acting like God in the Old
So sweet was ne'er so fatal. I must weep, TestamentI have to punish the one I love.
But they are cruel tears. This sorrows heavenly, Shes waking up.
It strikes where it doth love. She wakes.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Whos there? Othello? Whos there? Othello?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Ay, Desdemona. Yes, Desdemona.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
He found it then, He found it somewhere, then. I never gave it to
75 I never gave it him. Send for him hither, him. Tell him to come here. Hell tell the truth.
Let him confess a truth.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
He hath confessed. Hes already done so.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
What, my lord? What, my lord?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
That he hath usd thee. That he had sex with you.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
How? Unlawfully? What? Had sex with me?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Ay. Yes.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
80 He will not say so. He wouldnt say that.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
No, his mouth is stopped. Honest Iago No. He wont say anything anymore. Honest
Hath ta'en order for t. Iagos arranged that.
DESDEMONA DESDEMONA
Oh! My fear interprets. What, is he dead? Oh, Im scared. What, is he dead?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Had all his hairs been lives If he had as many lives as hes got hairs on his
85 My great revenge had stomach for them all. head, I wouldve killed them all in revenge.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
What noise is this?Not dead? Not yet quite dead? Whats that noise? Arent you dead yet? I know
I that am cruel am yet merciful, Im cruel, but Im merciful too. I dont want you to
I would not have thee linger in thy pain. linger in pain.
100 So, so.
EMILIA EMILIA
(within) What, ho! My lord, my lord! (offstage) Hello! My lord, my lord!
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Whos there? Whos there?
EMILIA EMILIA
(within) O good my lord, I would speak a word with (offstage) Oh my lord, I need to speak to you!
you!
She was false as water. She was fickle and unfaithful, like water.
EMILIA EMILIA
Thou art rash as fire, Youve lost your mind to accuse her of cheating.
To say that she was false. Oh, she was heavenly She was utterly true to you!
true!
OTHELLO OTHELLO
150 Cassio did top her, ask thy husband else. Cassio had sex with her. Ask your husband if
Oh, I were damned beneath all depth in hell, you doubt me. If I didnt have a good reason to
But that I did proceed upon just grounds do this, damn me to the very bottom of hell. Your
To this extremity. Thy husband knew it all. husband knew about everything.
EMILIA EMILIA
My husband! My husband!
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Thy husband. Your husband.
EMILIA EMILIA
That she was false to wedlock? He said she was unfaithful?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
155 Ay, with Cassio. Had she been true, Yes, with Cassio. If shed been faithful to me, I
If heaven would make me such another world never would have given her up, not even if God
Of one entire and perfect chrysolite, himself offered me a jewel as big as a planet in
Id not have sold her for it. exchange for her.
EMILIA EMILIA
My husband? My husband.
This deed of thine is no more worthy heaven you to heaven. You werent good enough for her.
Than thou wast worthy her.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Peace, you were best. Youd better shut up!
EMILIA EMILIA
Thou hast not half that power to do me harm I can endure far more pain than you could ever
175 As I have to be hurt. O gull! O dolt! give me! Oh, you idiot! You stupid fool! As dumb
As ignorant as dirt! Thou hast done a deed as dirt! Youve committed a terrible evilIm not
I care not for thy sword, Ill make thee known afraid of your sword. Ill tell everyone what you
did, even if it
EMILIA EMILIA
And your reports have set the murder on. And your lies caused this murder.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
200 Nay, stare not, masters, it is true, indeed. Dont stand there gaping, everyone. Its true.
GRATIANO GRATIANO
'Tis a strange truth. It may be true, but its unbelievable.
MONTANO MONTANO
Oh, monstrous act! Oh, what a horrible deed!
EMILIA EMILIA
Villainy, villainy, villainy! Evil, evil, evil! I can smell it! I suspected it earlier.
I think upon t, I think I smell t, Oh, villainy! Ill kill myself out of grief! Oh, evil, evil!
I thought so then, Ill kill myself for grief.
205 Oh, villainy, villainy!
IAGO IAGO
What, are you mad? I charge you, get you home. Are you crazy? Im ordering you, go home.
EMILIA EMILIA
Good gentlemen, let me have leave to speak. Good gentlemen, give me permission to speak. I
'Tis proper I obey him, but not now. know I ought to obey my husband, but not now.
Perchance, Iago, I will ne'er go home. Maybe Ill never go home again, Iago!
OTHELLO OTHELLO
210 Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh!
EMILIA EMILIA
Nay, lay thee down and roar, Yes, go ahead and moan, because you killed the
For thou hast killed the sweetest innocent sweetest, most innocent woman who ever lived!
That e'er did lift up eye.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Oh, she was foul! She was filthy! I barely knew you, UncleGratiano.
I scarce did know you, uncle. There lies your niece, Heres your niece lying here dead. I killed her
Whose breath, indeed, these hands have newly with these hands. I know this looks horrible.
215 stopped.
I know this act shows horrible and grim.
GRATIANO GRATIANO
Poor Desdemon! I am glad thy fathers dead, Poor Desdemona! Im glad your father isnt alive
Thy match was mortal to him, and pure grief to see this. Your marriage made him die of grief
Shore his old thread in twain. Did he live now, before his time. If he was alive now, this sight
would hurt
Oh, heaven! Oh, heavenly powers! Oh, God! Dear God in heaven!
IAGO IAGO
230 Zounds, hold your peace. Damn it, shut your mouth.
EMILIA EMILIA
'Twill out, twill out.I peace? No, the truth will come outMe, shut my mouth?
No, I will speak as liberal as the north. Let heaven and men and devils tell me to shut
Let heaven and men and devils, let them all, me up. Ill say what I have to say.
All, all cry shame against me, yet Ill speak.
IAGO IAGO
235 Be wise, and get you home. If youre smart, youll go home.
Draws his sword IAGO draws his sword.
EMILIA EMILIA
I will not. I wont.
GRATIANO GRATIANO
Fie! Your sword upon a woman? Shame on you! Drawing your sword on a
woman?
EMILIA EMILIA
O thou dull Moor! That handkerchief thou speakst of Oh, you stupid Moor! I found that handkerchief
I found by fortune and did give my husband. by accident and gave it to my husband. Hed
240 For often, with a solemn earnestness begged me to steal it many times.
More than indeed belonged to such a trifle
He begged of me to steal it.
255 Come, guard the door without. Let him not pass, him rather than let him leave this room. Im going
But kill him rather. Ill after that same villain, after Iago. Hes a horrid criminal.
For tis a damnd slave.
Exeunt MONTANO and GRATIANO MONTANO and GRATIANO exit.
Pale as thy smock! When we shall meet at compt lust. Oh you damned villain! Whip me, you
This look of thine will hurl my soul from heaven devils, so I dont have to look at this heavenly
And fiends will snatch at it. Cold, cold, my girl, sight! Blow on me with hot winds, roast me in
290 Even like thy chastity. O cursed, cursed slave! lava, drown me in liquid fire! Oh, Desdemona!
Whip me, ye devils, Dead Desdemona! Oh, oh!
From the possession of this heavenly sight!
Blow me about in winds, roast me in sulfur,
Wash me in steep-down gulfs of liquid fire!
295 Oh, Desdemona! Desdemona! dead! Oh! Oh!
Enter LODOVICO, MONTANO, CASSIO carried in a LODOVICO and MONTANO enter, followed
chair, and officers with IAGO, prisoner byCASSIO on a stretcher, and officers
with IAGO, prisoner.
LODOVICO LODOVICO
Where is this rash and most unfortunate man? Where is that poor rash man?
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Thats he that was Othello. Here I am. You mean the man who used to be Othello?
Here I am.
LODOVICO LODOVICO
Where is that viper? Bring the villain forth. Wheres that snake? Bring the villain forward.
IAGO is brought forward IAGO is brought forward.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
I do believe it, and I ask your pardon. I believe you, and I ask you to forgive me. Will
Will you, I pray, demand that demi-devil you please make this half-devil say why he
315 Why he hath thus ensnared my soul and body? tricked me and damned my soul?
After long seeming deadIago hurt him, dead for a long whileIago tricked him, Iago
345 Iago set him on. urged him to do it.
LODOVICO LODOVICO
(to OTHELLO) You must forsake this room and go (to OTHELLO)
with us. Youll have to leave this room and come with us.
Your power and your command is taken off Youre stripped of your power and your
And Cassio rules in Cyprus. For this slave, command, and Cassio will govern Cyprus. As for
350 If there be any cunning cruelty this slave, Iago, if we can think of any torture that
That can torment him much and hold him long, will hurt him a lot but keep him alive a long time,
It shall be his. You shall close prisoner rest hell have it. Youll remain a prisoner until we
Till that the nature of your fault be known bring your crimes to the Venetian government.
To the Venetian state.Come, bring him away. Okay, take him away.
OTHELLO OTHELLO
Soft you, a word or two before you go. Wait. A word or two before you go. Ive given the
355 I have done the state some service, and they state of Venice a bit of help in the past, and they
know t. know it. But enough about that. When you record
No more of that. I pray you, in your letters, these sad events in your letters, please describe
When you shall these unlucky deeds relate, me exactly as I am. Dont tone things down or
Speak of me as I am. Nothing extenuate, exaggerate them out of hostility. If youre being
360 Nor set down aught in malice. Then must you speak fair, youll have to describe me as someone who
Of one that loved not wisely, but too well. loved too much, but who wasnt wise about it. I
Of one not easily jealous, but being wrought, was not easily made jealous, but once I was
Perplexed in the extreme. Of one whose hand, tricked and manipulated, I worked myself into a
Like the base Indian, threw a pearl away frenzy. Describe me as a fool who threw away a
365 Richer than all his tribe. Of one whose subdued precious pearl with his own hands, like a silly
eyes, Indian who didnt know what it was worth. As
Albeit unused to the melting mood, someone who was not emotional, but who then
Drop tears as fast as the Arabian trees cried a lot. Write all this
Their medicinal gum. Set you down this,