Othello: Scene Summaries

Act 1, Scene 1: Iago reveals his hatred for Othello, who has promoted Cassio instead of him, and Roderigo’s love for Desdemona is revealed.
Act 1, Scene 2: Othello is summoned to the council chamber on account of Turk threats and accusations by Brabantio regarding his elopement with Desdemona.
Act 1, Scene 3: Othello defends his elopement, Council sends Othello to Cyprus, Iago plots against Othello noticing Desdemona’s liking for him.
Act 2, Scene 1: In Cyprus, all await Othello’s arrival, Cassio greets Desdemona, Iago’s plans to make Othello suspicious of Cassio and Desdemona.
Act 2, Scene 2: Herald announces Othello’s victory party.
Act 2, Scene 3: A drunken brawl occurs, leading to Cassio’s dismissal, and Iago advances his plan to overthrow Othello.
Act 3, Scene 1: Iago persuades Cassio to speak with Desdemona to get his reputation back.
Act 3, Scene 2: Othello gives letters related to his duties to Iago for delivery and departs for the fort.
Act 3, Scene 3: Iago successfully instigates Othello’s suspicion and jealousy towards Desdemona and Cassio, hinting at their affair.
Act 3, Scene 4: Othello’s suspicions deepen when Desdemona cannot produce the handkerchief he gave her, which Iago uses as evidence.
Act 4, Scene 1: Iago fuels Othello’s jealousy, leading to an epileptic fit, and arranges a meeting where Othello overhears (misinterprets) Cassio’s ‘confession’.
Act 4, Scene 2: Othello accuses Desdemona of infidelity, Iago’s plan unravels further when Roderigo confronts him, and Emilia grows suspicious.
Act 4, Scene 3: Desdemona sings “Willow Song,” signalling impending doom, after Emilia’s thought-provoking speech about infidelity.
Act 5, Scene 1: Roderigo is killed while attempting to murder Cassio on Iago’s orders, Iago manages to blame Bianca for the unrest.
Act 5, Scene 2: In the climax of the play, Othello smothers Desdemona, Iago’s treachery is revealed, Othello kills himself, Iago is taken to be punished.