Othello, Act 2, Scene 3 summary
Act 2, Scene 3 of 15 · 14 min to read the scene
In Act 2, Scene 3, Iago encourages Cassio to drink and uses Roderigo to provoke a disturbance that ends with Montano wounded and Othello dismissing Cassio. He then persuades Cassio to seek Desdemona's help, privately planning to make her support look like evidence of sexual desire.
What happens
- Othello assigns Cassio guard duty and leaves with Desdemona, while Iago pressures the reluctant lieutenant to drink.
- Iago tells Montano that Cassio habitually drinks, then sends Roderigo after Cassio to provoke trouble.
- Cassio strikes Roderigo and fights Montano, who suffers a wound; the alarm brings Othello.
- Othello accepts Iago's account and removes Cassio from his position.
- Cassio mourns his damaged reputation and accepts Iago's advice to ask Desdemona for help.
- Iago reassures Roderigo and plans to make Desdemona's support for Cassio appear sexually motivated.
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In this scene
What to notice
Iago explains how apparently helpful advice serves his harmful purpose. He intends to make Desdemona's generosity undermine Othello's trust.
Quick check
Whose help does Iago advise Cassio to seek after his dismissal?
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