Othello Analysis Act 4

Act Three shows Othello’s disintegrating mental state, as he tips from self-assured, authoritative, and composed into emotional turmoil and jealous rage, manipulated by Iago. This is shown in his speech and actions, which see a dramatic change over act three, to amplify both the disintegration of his mental state and the effect Iago’s manipulation has on Othello.
Act 3 Scene 2 is a short scene that shows Othello’s authority as a general. It opens with an imperative delivered by Othello- “These letters give, Iago, to the pilot.” His tone is assertive and he behaves as you would expect a general to behave, which is presented through the use of short, simple sentences, and the respect he is shown by Iago and the gentlemen. Othello says “I will be walking on the works”, which reflects his calm, collected disposition, as ‘walking’ has connotations of relaxation and leisure, which shows that Othello has nothing worrying him at present. It also reinforces his military authority, as “walking on the works” could be interpreted as patrolling the perimeter, establishing his jurisdiction as general.
In this scene, Othello …show more content…
He admits that Iago is worrying him, saying “These stops of thine fright me the more.” This is the first time the audience sees Othello falter in the presence of another character, and indicates that Iago is starting to get to Othello. Other times we see this are when he doubts Cassio’s true intentions when he was interacting with Desdemona- “In a man that’s just, they are close dilations, working from the heart, that passion cannot rule” and when he finally gives in and asks Iago to tell him what’s going on- “Nay, yet there’s more in this. I prithee speak to me as to thy