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The Library
of Alexandria

Othello, Act 3, Scene 1 summary

Act 3, Scene 1 of 15 · 3 min to read the scene

In Act 3, Scene 1, Cassio arranges to approach Desdemona through Emilia, while Iago offers to keep the general away during their conversation. Emilia reports that Desdemona already supports Cassio and leads him inside, giving him a chance to plead his case privately.

What happens

  1. Cassio pays musicians to greet the general with morning music.
  2. The clown jokes about their instruments and pays them to stop playing.
  3. Cassio gives the clown gold and asks him to fetch the woman attending the general’s wife.
  4. Iago offers to send Emilia and keep the general away so Cassio can speak freely with Desdemona.
  5. Emilia reports Desdemona’s support and explains the general’s reasons for dismissing Cassio.
  6. Cassio still requests a private conversation with Desdemona, and Emilia leads him inside.

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In this scene

What to notice

Cassio expresses complete confidence in Iago after accepting his offer of help. The line establishes how Cassio understands Iago’s actions here.

Quick check

Why does the general dismiss Cassio, according to Emilia?

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