By character

Othello

“But yet the pity of it, Iago! O Iago, the pity of it, Iago!” (Act IV, Scene i)

In this quote, Othello is expressing his sorrow and regret at the thought of killing Desdemona. The repetition of Iago's name emphasizes his frustration and desperation, as he turns to his trusted confidant for solace. The word "pity" suggests that Othello recognizes the tragedy of his actions, but is unable to prevent himself from carrying them out due to his overwhelming jealousy.

“Excellent wretch! Perdition catch my soul / But I do love thee; and when I love thee not, / Chaos is come again.” (Act III, Scene iii)

This is one of the quotes from Othello, where he is expressing his love for Desdemona and how he cannot imagine life without her. The use of the word "perdition" shows how deeply Othello is willing to swear to his love for Desdemona. The use of the word "wretch" is significant because it suggests that Othello views himself as unworthy of Desdemona's love. This quote also highlights the complexity of Othello's character, as he can be both tender and loving, but also incredibly jealous and violent.

“Rude am I in my speech, / And little blessed with the soft phrase of peace” (Act I, Scene 3)

This quote highlights Othello's awareness of his own shortcomings when it comes to language. He acknowledges that he is not a skilled orator, particularly in comparison to those who are more "bless'd with the soft phrase of peace." However, this quote also reveals something about Othello's character; despite his lack of eloquence, he is still respected and admired for his accomplishments as a warrior and leader. This suggests that Othello values action over words and that his strength lies in his abilities on the battlefield rather than in rhetoric.

“O, now, for ever / Farewell the tranquil mind! farewell content! / Farewell the plumed troop, and the big wars, / That make ambition virtue! O, farewell! / Farewell the neighing steed, and the shrill trump, / The spirit-stirring drum, th' ear-piercing fife, / The royal banner, and all quality, / Pride, pomp and circumstance of glorious war!” (Act III, Scene iii)

In this soliloquy, Othello is lamenting the loss of his former life as a respected and successful general. The use of the word "farewell" emphasizes Othello's sense of loss and the idea that he can never return to the life he once knew. This quote also shows the extent of Othello's despair, as he is willing to give up everything he once held dear in order to be with Desdemona.

“O, blood, Iago, blood!” (Act III, Scene iii)

This quote highlights the violent and passionate nature of Othello's character. The repetition of the word "blood" emphasizes his desire for revenge and the intensity of his emotions. This quote foreshadows the tragic events that will occur later in the play, as Othello becomes consumed by his jealousy and seeks to take revenge on Desdemona.

“Not I; I must be found: / My parts, my title and my perfect soul / Shall manifest me rightly.” (Act I, Scene ii)

In this quote, Othello is describing how he believes his reputation and character will speak for themselves. The use of the word "manifest" suggests that Othello believes that his true nature will be revealed through his actions and deeds. However, this quote also highlights Othello's pride and how his sense of self-importance will ultimately lead to his downfall.

“Speak of me as I am; nothing extenuate, / Nor set down aught in malice. Then must you speak / Of one that loved not wisely but too well.” (Act V, Scene 2)

This quote shows Othello's realization of the extent of his actions and the consequences that have come from his jealousy and anger. He is asking for honesty in the way people remember him, without trying to make excuses for his behavior or demonizing him unfairly.

The phrase "loved not wisely but too well" is particularly powerful, as it acknowledges his love for Desdemona but also admits that it was not based on sound judgment or rationality. It suggests that Othello recognizes that his love for Desdemona was intense, but also misguided and ultimately destructive.

This quote also highlights the tragedy of Othello's character, as he was a man who had many admirable qualities, such as bravery and leadership, but these were ultimately overshadowed by his flaws. His desire to be seen as a noble and respected figure is contrasted with the reality of his actions and the way he allowed himself to be manipulated by Iago.

 

Desdemona

“My noble father, / I do perceive here a divided duty” (Act I, Scene 3)

In this quote, Desdemona acknowledges the conflict between her duty as a daughter and her duty as a wife. She recognizes that her marriage to Othello may upset her father, Brabantio, and cause him to feel betrayed. This demonstrates Desdemona's loyalty and respect for her father, but also her determination to follow her heart and stand by her husband.

“And so much duty as my mother showed / To you, preferring you before her father, / So much I challenge that I may profess / Due to the Moor my lord” (Act I, Scene 3)

Desdemona uses her mother's example to justify her loyalty to Othello. She believes that just as her mother chose to marry her father despite her father's disapproval, she too has the right to choose her own husband. This quote shows Desdemona's independence and her willingness to go against societal expectations in order to pursue her own happiness.

“I never did / Offend you in my life; never loved Cassio / But with such general warranty of heaven / As I might love” (Act IV, Scene 2)

Desdemona pleads her innocence to Othello, insisting that she has never betrayed him with Cassio. She appeals to their shared faith in God, insisting that her love for Cassio is pure and innocent. This quote highlights Desdemona's unwavering devotion to Othello and her belief in the power of love to overcome all obstacles.

“I hope my noble lord esteems me honest” (Act IV, Scene 2)

In this quote, Desdemona asks Othello to trust her and believe in her innocence. She is hurt and confused by his accusations and is desperately trying to prove her loyalty and honesty. This quote emphasizes Desdemona's vulnerability and her dependence on Othello's love and trust.

“Oh, falsely, falsely murdered!” (Act V, Scene 2)

Desdemona's dying words express her shock and despair at the realization that her husband has killed her. This quote is particularly poignant because it underscores the senselessness and tragedy of her death. Desdemona's innocence and purity are emphasized, and the audience is left to mourn her untimely demise.

“Nobody; I myself. Farewell. / Commend me to my kind lord. Oh, farewell!” (Act V, Scene 2)

In her final moments, Desdemona takes responsibility for her own death, refusing to blame anyone else for her fate. She bids a poignant farewell to Othello, even though he has just murdered her. This quote demonstrates Desdemona's forgiveness and her unwavering love for Othello, even in death.

“A guiltless death I die” (Act V, Scene 2)

Desdemona's last words proclaim her innocence and absolve Othello of any blame for her death. She refuses to harbor any ill will towards her husband, even though he has just killed her. This quote highlights Desdemona's purity and selflessness, even in the face of her own death. It also emphasizes the tragedy of her loss, and the senselessness of her murder.

 

Iago

“I am not what I am.” (Act I, Scene I)

This line is the first spoken by Iago and serves as an introduction to his duplicitous nature. The line is a paradoxical statement, as it suggests that Iago is not defined by his appearance or outward behavior, but rather by his hidden motives and true nature. The line also sets the stage for Iago's manipulation of the other characters, as he uses his ability to hide his true intentions to deceive and manipulate them for his own gain.

“I have told thee often, and I re-tell thee again and again, I hate the Moor.” (Act I, Scene III)

In this quote, Iago reveals his hatred for Othello, which becomes the driving force behind his plot for revenge. The line also emphasizes Iago's tendency to repeat himself, as he has already told Roderigo of his hatred for Othello several times before. This repetition serves to reinforce Iago's point and underscores the intensity of his emotions.

“O, beware, my lord, of jealousy; / It is the green-eyed monster which doth mock / The meat it feeds on.” (Act III, Scene III)

Here, Iago warns Othello about the dangers of jealousy, which he himself is actively stoking in Othello. The metaphor of the "green-eyed monster" vividly captures the destructive nature of jealousy, as it consumes and distorts one's perception of reality. By warning Othello of this danger, Iago is also planting the seed of suspicion in his mind, furthering his plot to drive Othello to madness.

“Good name in man and woman, dear my lord, / Is the immediate jewel of their souls.” (Act III, Scene III)

In this quote, Iago advises Othello that reputation is the most valuable possession one can have. The line emphasizes Iago's own obsession with reputation, as he is willing to destroy others in order to protect and enhance his own. The use of the word "jewel" suggests that reputation is something precious and rare, further underscoring its importance.

“Demand me nothing. What you know, you know. / From this time forth I never will speak word.” (Act V, Scene II)

In this line, Iago refuses to explain his motives or actions to Othello and declares that he will never speak again. The line highlights Iago's continued refusal to take responsibility for his actions and his desire to maintain control over the situation. It also leaves the audience with a sense of unease and uncertainty, as the true motivations behind Iago's plot remain unclear.

“I bleed, sir; but not killed.” (Act V, Scene I)

In this quote, Iago reveals that he has been wounded by Cassio in the chaos that has ensued. The line serves to humanize Iago, who has been portrayed as almost superhuman in his ability to manipulate and deceive. It also underscores the consequences of Iago's actions, as he is finally forced to face the physical and emotional pain that he has caused others. However, the line also suggests that Iago is not yet defeated and may continue to cause harm, even as he acknowledges his own vulnerability

Michael Cassio

“I have very poor and unhappy brains for drinking. I could well wish courtesy would invent some other custom of entertainment.”

Here, Cassio acknowledges his weakness for drinking and admits that it has caused him trouble in the past. He wishes for a different form of entertainment that would not lead to such disastrous consequences. This quote shows Cassio's awareness of his flaws and his desire to improve himself, which stands in stark contrast to the deceptive nature of some other characters in the play.

“Reputation, reputation, reputation! O, I have lost my reputation! I have lost the immortal part of myself, and what remains is bestial.” (Act II, Scene 3)

This quote shows Cassio's deep concern for his reputation, as he believes it defines his very identity. He sees his reputation as the "immortal part" of himself, something that will outlive him and give him a lasting legacy. Losing it makes him feel less than human, like a mere beast. This highlights the importance of reputation in the play, as it drives the actions of many characters. Cassio's fear of losing his reputation drives him to plead with Iago and ultimately leads to his downfall, as Iago uses it as a means to manipulate him and destroy his reputation.

 

Brabantio

“Look to her, Moor, if thou hast eyes to see. / She has deceived her father, and may thee.” (Act I, Scene 3)

In this quote, Brabantio warns Othello to be wary of Desdemona's deceitful nature. He implies that Desdemona has betrayed her own father by marrying Othello and suggests that she may be capable of doing the same to Othello. Brabantio's warning is driven by his prejudice against Othello, as he cannot accept the idea that his daughter would willingly choose to marry a black man. This quote highlights the theme of racism and prejudice in the play.

“O thou foul thief, where hast thou stowed my daughter?” (Act I, Scene 2)

This quote reveals Brabantio's anger and shock upon discovering that his daughter, Desdemona, has eloped with Othello. His use of the word "thief" to describe Othello suggests that he sees the marriage as a form of theft, as he believes Othello has stolen his daughter away from him. The quote also demonstrates Brabantio's possessiveness over Desdemona and his belief that she is his property to do with as he pleases.

“This is Venice. / My house is not a grange.” (Act I, Scene 1)

In this quote, Brabantio expresses his disapproval of Roderigo's attempts to court Desdemona. He suggests that Roderigo is not of the same social status as his daughter and that his house is not a place where commoners can come and go as they please. Brabantio's arrogance and elitism are evident in this quote, as he believes that his wealth and status entitle him to certain privileges and that those who are not of the same social standing as him should not be allowed to associate with his family.

 

Emilia

“But I do think it is their husbands' faults / If wives do fall: say that they slack their duties, / And pour our treasures into foreign laps, / Or else break out in peevish jealousies, /Throwing restraint upon us; or say they strike us, / Or scant our former having in despite; /Why, we have galls, and though we have some grace, /Yet have we some revenge.” (Act IV, Scene 3)

In this quote, Emilia is defending women and challenging the idea that infidelity is solely the fault of the wives. She argues that men often neglect their duties, withhold affection, or become overly jealous, which can drive women to seek attention elsewhere. Emilia's statement highlights the inequality and double standards that exist in the patriarchal society depicted in the play.

“They are all but stomachs, and we all but food; / They eat us hungerly, and when they are full, / They belch us.” (Act III, Scene 4)

In this quote, Emilia is speaking to Desdemona about the nature of men and their treatment of women. She argues that men only view women as objects to satisfy their physical desires and that they discard them once they have had their fill. Emilia's statement reflects the misogyny and objectification of women that is prevalent in the play, and she calls attention to the dehumanizing effects of such attitudes.

“Let husbands know / Their wives have sense like them: they see and smell, / And have their palates both for sweet and sour / As husbands have.” (Act IV, Scene 3)

In this quote, Emilia is arguing for the equality and intelligence of women. She asserts that women have the same senses and tastes as men and therefore should not be treated as inferior or lacking in understanding. Emilia's statement is a plea for respect and recognition of women's capabilities and is a challenge to the patriarchal assumptions that underlie the society depicted in the play.

 

By theme

Jealousy

Othello Jealousy Quotes

“O, beware, my lord, of jealousy! / It is the green-eyed monster which doth mock / The meat it feeds on.” (Act III, Scene 3)

This line by Iago in Othello is one of the most famous quotes about jealousy in all of literature. Here, Iago is warning Othello of the danger of jealousy and how it can consume a person from the inside out. The metaphor of the "green-eyed monster" emphasizes how jealousy can turn a person into a monster, destroying everything in its path.

“Why did I marry? This honest creature doubtless / Sees and knows more, much more than he unfolds.” (Act III, Scene 3)

This quote by Othello reveals how jealousy has already started to poison his mind and cause him to doubt Desdemona's fidelity. He feels that she must be hiding something from him and that even her seemingly innocent actions are evidence of her infidelity.

“But jealous souls will not be answered so. / They are not ever jealous for the cause, / But jealous for they are jealous.” (Act II, Scene 1)

Here, Emilia is discussing with Desdemona how jealousy can take hold of a person without any real cause or reason. Jealousy is not always rational or logical, and those who are consumed by it may become jealous simply because they are already predisposed to the emotion.

“Excellent wretch! Perdition catch my soul / But I do love thee! And when I love thee not, / Chaos is come again.” (Act III, Scene 3)

In this quote, Othello is expressing his love for Desdemona while also acknowledging the destructive power of his jealousy. He knows that if he stops loving her, chaos will ensue, and yet he cannot help but be consumed by jealousy and suspicion. This quote highlights the destructive nature of jealousy and how it can cause a person to act against their own best interests.

Racism and Prejudice

Othello Racism Quotes

“An old black ram is tupping your white ewe.” (Act I, Scene I)

This quote, spoken by Iago to Brabantio, represents the racism prevalent in the play. Iago is using Othello's race to stir up Brabantio's anger and convince him that his daughter has been stolen by a black man. The reference to Othello as a "black ram" is derogatory, indicating the negative attitude towards him due to his race.

“Is there not charms / By which the property of youth and maidhood / May be abused? Have you not read, Roderigo, / Of some such thing?” (Act I, Scene III)

Iago uses insinuations and stereotypes about Desdemona's sexuality to convince Roderigo that she is promiscuous and likely to cheat on Othello. This quote represents the stereotype that black men are sexually aggressive and promiscuous.

“And it is thought abroad that 'twixt my sheets / He has done my office.” (Act I, Scene III)

In this quote, Iago is continuing to use the stereotype of black men as sexually aggressive to convince Othello that his wife is cheating on him with Cassio. He suggests that Cassio has slept with Desdemona, which would not only represent infidelity but also a violation of the social norms of the time for interracial relationships.

“Villain, be sure thou prove my love a whore, / Be sure of it. Give me the ocular proof.” (Act III, Scene III)

This quote represents Othello's internalized racism and the damage that it has caused. He has been convinced by Iago's lies that his wife is unfaithful, and rather than confronting her about it, he demands proof. This demand for "ocular proof" indicates that he already believes that his wife is guilty and is looking for confirmation of what he already believes due to his racial prejudices.

Appearance vs Reality

Othello Appearance vs Reality Quotes

“I am not what I am.” (Act I, Scene I)

In this quote, Iago is admitting that he is not who he appears to be. This line sets the tone for the entire play, as the theme of appearance vs reality is prevalent throughout. Iago is a master of deception and manipulation, presenting himself as a loyal friend to Othello while secretly plotting his downfall. This quote is significant in highlighting the idea that things are not always as they seem.

“O, beware, my lord, of jealousy; It is the green-eyed monster which doth mock The meat it feeds on.” (Act III, Scene III)

In this quote, Iago is warning Othello about the dangers of jealousy. He uses the metaphor of a "green-eyed monster" to describe how jealousy can consume and destroy a person. Othello, who is already struggling with feelings of jealousy towards his wife, Desdemona, takes Iago's warning to heart and becomes increasingly paranoid and suspicious.

“Excellent wretch! Perdition catch my soul, But I do love thee! And when I love thee not, Chaos is come again.” (Act III, Scene III)

In this quote, Othello is expressing his love for Desdemona. However, he also reveals his belief that if he were to stop loving her, his world would be plunged into chaos. This line is significant in highlighting the theme of appearance vs reality, as Othello's love for Desdemona appears to be genuine and pure, but it ultimately becomes warped by jealousy and suspicion, leading to tragic consequences.

Gender Roles

Othello Gender Roles Quotes

“She loved me for the dangers I had passed, / And I loved her that she did pity them.” (Act I, Scene III)

This quote from Othello reflects the gender roles of the time period in which the play was written. Othello, the male protagonist, describes how he won over Desdemona by telling her about his dangerous adventures. This suggests that the only way for a man to be deemed worthy of a woman's love is to be seen as brave and heroic.

“But I do think it is their husbands' faults / If wives do fall.” (Act IV, Scene III)

Emilia, a female character in Othello, challenges the traditional gender roles of the time period by suggesting that men are to blame for their wives' infidelity. This goes against the common belief that women were solely responsible for maintaining their virtue and fidelity in marriage.

Manipulation

Othello Manipulation Quotes

“O, beware, my lord, of jealousy; / It is the green-eyed monster which doth mock / The meat it feeds on.” (Act III, Scene 3)

This quote is spoken by Iago to Othello, warning him about the dangers of jealousy. However, Iago is actually manipulating Othello's jealousy throughout the play, leading to his tragic downfall. The use of the metaphor "green-eyed monster" emphasizes the destructive and consuming nature of jealousy.

“Men should be what they seem; / Or those that be not, would they might seem none!” (Act III, Scene 3)

This quote is spoken by Iago, expressing his belief that people should be honest and transparent. However, the irony is that both Iago and Othello himself are not what they seem, and are in fact manipulating those around them. The quote highlights the contrast between appearance and reality in the play.

“I have very poor and unhappy brains for drinking. I could well wish courtesy would invent some other custom of entertainment.” (Act II, Scene 3)

This quote is spoken by Cassio, reflecting his vulnerability to manipulation. Iago takes advantage of Cassio's weakness for alcohol, manipulating him into drinking excessively and getting into a fight with Roderigo. This quote shows how easily manipulated Cassio is and how Iago uses his weaknesses to achieve his own ends.

 

By literary device

Symbolism

“It is the cause, it is the cause, my soul.” (Act V, Scene 2)

This quote is spoken by Othello himself as he contemplates killing Desdemona. The use of the word "cause" suggests that Othello sees this action as a necessary one in order to right a wrong that has been committed. However, the repetition of the phrase "it is the cause" also suggests that Othello is trying to convince himself that what he is doing is just, when in reality he is being manipulated by Iago's lies.

“Yet I'll not shed her blood, / Nor scar that whiter skin of hers than snow, / And smooth as monumental alabaster.” (Act V, Scene 2)

This quote is spoken by Othello as he approaches Desdemona with the intention of killing her. The imagery of her skin being "whiter than snow" and "smooth as monumental alabaster" emphasizes her purity and innocence, making Othello's eventual act of violence even more tragic. The contrast between her beauty and the violence that is about to be inflicted upon her underscores the theme of appearance versus reality.

“I am not what I am.” (Act I, Scene 1)

This quote is spoken by Iago early in the play, and it sets the tone for the themes of deception and manipulation that run throughout the play. By saying "I am not what I am," Iago is suggesting that he is not to be taken at face value and that his true intentions are hidden. This quote serves as a symbol for the larger theme of appearance versus reality in the play, as Iago uses his outward appearance as an honest and trustworthy soldier to hide his true, manipulative nature.

Setting

“I will wear my heart upon my sleeve / For daws to peck at. I am not what I am.” (Act I, Scene I)

This quote takes place in a street in Venice and is spoken by Iago as he reveals his duplicitous nature to Roderigo. The setting of the street is significant because it represents the public face of Venice, a city known for its political intrigue and deception. Iago's statement about wearing his heart on his sleeve suggests he is not what he appears to be in this public setting.

“O curse of marriage, / That we can call these delicate creatures ours, / And not their appetites!” (Act III, Scene III)

This quote by Iago takes place in a bedroom where he continues to manipulate Othello's jealousy. The bedroom setting symbolizes the intimate and private nature of relationships, while Iago's statement about the curse of marriage reveals his misogynistic views on women and their supposed insatiable appetites.

Dramatic Irony

“Look to your wife; observe her well with Cassio. / Wear your eye thus, not jealous nor secure” (Act III, Scene 3).

This quote is a prime example of dramatic irony as Iago advises Othello to keep an eye on Desdemona, warning him to be wary of Cassio's advances. However, the audience knows that Cassio is not a threat to Othello's marriage, and that Iago is manipulating him into jealousy. The irony lies in the fact that Othello believes Iago's lies, and his mistrust of Desdemona leads to the tragic ending of the play.

“I understand a fury in your words, / But not the words” (Act IV, Scene 2).

In this scene, Othello is questioning Emilia about Desdemona's infidelity, and her responses only heighten his suspicion. However, the audience knows that Desdemona is innocent, and that it is Iago's manipulation that has led Othello to believe otherwise. The dramatic irony lies in the audience's knowledge of the truth while Othello remains blind to it.

“Oh, beware, my lord, of jealousy; / It is the green-ey'd monster which doth mock / The meat it feeds on” (Act III, Scene 3).

This quote is spoken by Iago to Othello, warning him of the dangers of jealousy. However, Iago is the one who is fueling Othello's jealousy, and the audience is aware of this. The irony lies in the fact that Iago is using Othello's own flaws against him, while pretending to be his confidante.

Imagery

“O, beware, my lord, of jealousy! / It is the green-eyed monster which doth mock / The meat it feeds on” (Act III, Scene 3) 

This quote, spoken by Iago, uses vivid and dramatic imagery to describe jealousy as a monster with green eyes that consumes and ultimately destroys its prey.

“I have very poor and unhappy brains for drinking. I could well wish courtesy would invent some other custom of entertainment” (Act II, Scene 3) 

In this quote, Cassio uses the image of "unhappy brains" to describe his inability to handle alcohol. This dramatic image emphasizes the consequences of drinking and foreshadows Cassio's later drunken outburst.

“This hand is moist, my lady” (Act V, Scene 2) 

In this quote, Emilia uses the image of a "moist hand" to symbolize sexual desire and passion. The dramatic and sensual image adds to the tension and tragedy of the scene as it leads to the revelation of Iago's treachery.