Act III, Scene iv

1. Act III, Scene iv

2. Why does Desdemona not wish to admit to Othello that she lost the handkerchief he had given her? She doesn’t want to admit losing it because the handkerchief has a sentimental value, being the first gift Othello gave her. Othello also said it had been his mother’s and had a magic spell woven into it.

3. Why does Othello demand to see the handkerchief when he already knows that Desdemona does not have it? Othello is angry and filled with jealousy. He knows the handkerchief is gone, but she still will not admit the loss. Desdemona’s lies, although innocent, are still lies.

4. When Cassio asks Desdemona about his suit (plea for his job), what does she tell him? She tells him he needs to be patient because Othello is in a bad humor (mood).

5. What does Desdemona think is the cause of Othello’s anger? What point does Emilia raise? Desdemona believes it is some problem of state (government problem). Emilia says, “Pray heaven it be……………. ….no jealous toy/Concerning you.”

6. State the two reasons Bianca is upset with Cassio. Bianca says he has not been near her for a week. He then gives her the handkerchief he found in his room. She is jealous because she believes the handkerchief is from a girlfriend.