Last performed in 2002
Synopsis | Smart Guide
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Synopsis
The tragedy Othello begins on a note of hatred and envy. Iago, passed over for promotion in the Venetian army in favor of Michael Cassio, seeks vengeance against his commander, Othello the Moor. The plot that ensues is brought about entirely by Iago's machinations.
Desdemona, daughter of the Venetian senator Brabantio, has secretly married Othello, a gallant general in the service of Venice. To set Brabantio against the Moor, Iago and his dupe, Roderigo, arouse and enrage the forsaken father. Following an encounter between Othello's and Brabantio's entourages in the streets of Venice, all proceed to the council chamber, where the duke and senators meet in an emergency session brought about by the threat of a Turkish attack against the isle of Cyprus. Brabantio appeals to the duke and senators to annul the marriage, but they uphold its legality and appoint the Moor to sail at once toward Cyprus. Desdemona will follow in the company of Iago on another vessel.
Once at Cyprus, Iago as consummate villain continues to breed destruction, using as pawns Desdemona's would-be suitor Roderigo and Othello's lieutenant Cassio. First, Iago dupes Roderigo into thinking that Desdemona might be persuaded to love him. Then he tricks Cassio into discrediting himself with Othello, who immediately strips him of his new military title.
Iago then persuades Cassio to ask Desdemona to plead with Othello to reinstate him. Desdemona warmly and naively complies. At the same time, the villain craftily instills in the Moor's mind doubts about his wife's fidelity. The tragedy then plays itself out.