Othello - Cassio quotes Flashcards
“‘Tis my breeding
That gives me this bold show of courtesy” (2.1)
-Makes comment to Iago after greeting Emilia with a kiss.
-Intends to signal he did not mean any disrespect by kissing another man’s wife but this sort of behaviour is simply part of good manners he is used to displaying.
-He might also be commenting on manners in his native Florence being different from what would be expected in Venice.
-Significant as shows how Cassio’s gallant & possibly flirtatious behaviour could be open to misinterpretation, a weakness Iago will later exploit.
“An inviting eye—and yet methinks right modest” (2.3)
-Compliments Des. to Iago as two men praise Des. beauty.
-Iago seems to be trying to get a read on Cassio’s feelings about Des. by encouraging him to praise her.
-Cassio certainly acknowledges her beauty, but comments remain respectful & notes that Des. is virtuous & loyal woman who behaves appropriately.
-Shows Cassio is not looking to make trouble in anyone’s marriage, or cause problems for her.
“I have very poor and unhappy brains for drinking” (2.3)
-Explains to Iago why he needs to carefully moderate how much alcohol he consumes, since he was a weak tolerance & rapidly becomes very inebriated.
-He thinks Iago is a trusted friend who will look after him & make sure he does not get into any trouble - however Iago deliberately uses this info against Cassio, getting him very drunk and setting him up to be involved in a fight.
“Oh, I have lost my reputation! I have lost the immortal part of myself and what remains is bestial” (2.3)
-Says lines in shame & sadness after Oth. angrily chastised him & stripped him of position.
-Although not physically hurt, Cassio knows he has lost his public image & respect of Oth. both of which shame him.
-Shows how much value Cassio places on his honor & reputation, and how he would never willingly do something shameful.
