Cassio's introduction to the play
Develop KS4 and KS5 students' understanding of the character and dramatic function of Cassio at the start of Shakespeare's play Othello.
Students consider the various methods Shakespeare uses to characterise him in Acts One and Two, building to a discussion of the theme of appearance versus reality.
There are detailed questions to help students to engage with Shakespeare's language, and a dramatic group reading task.
A sample from the classroom resource:
Now, consider the presentation of Cassio once the play moves to Cyprus in Act 2 Scene 1.
A number of things are happening here:
- There is concern that Othello’s ship has not arrived due to the storm.
- There is gossip about Othello’s recent marriage to Desdemona.
- There is anticipation of the army’s role in Cyprus.
When (re)reading the scene in groups, have Cassio read his lines in a variety of ways, trying to ascertain which depiction of his character seems most fitting/convincing:
- Have concern as your overriding emotion – you are worried about the safety of your superior and his wife.
- Have positivity as your overriding emotion – you feel Othello’s ship is safe and there is no need to be unduly concerned.
- Have your reputation/position as your overriding concern – you have been recently promoted and want to prove your worth.
- Have Desdemona as your overriding concern – are you a womaniser? Do you speak about her with respect or with longing?
Summarise which reading you found most effective and why.
