Othello : Quotations

Quotations

I am not what I am. (Iago, Act 1, Scene 1) 

Explanation: This line shows Iago’s deceptive nature. He is saying that he hides his true self and is always pretending. 

I kissed thee ere I killed thee: no way but this; Killing myself, to die upon a kiss. (Othello, Act 5, Scene 2)

Explanation: These are Othello’s final words as he realizes the terrible mistake he made in killing Desdemona. He kisses her and then kills himself out of guilt.

I have told thee often, and I re-tell thee again and again, I hate the Moor. (Act 1, Scene 3)

Explanation: In this line, Iago is expressing his deep hatred for Othello (referred to as “the Moor”).

I follow but myself. (Act 1, Scene 1)

Explanation: In this line, Iago reveals his true nature to Roderigo, indicating that he only acts in his own self-interest.

“Haply, for I am black.” (Act 3, Scene 3)

Explanation: In this line, Othello begins to doubt himself, thinking that perhaps because he is black, Desdemona may not truly love him.

Thus do I ever make my fool my purse; (Act 1, Scene 3)

Explanation: In this line, Iago is referring to how he uses Roderigo, whom he considers a fool, to make money for himself.

Look to your wife; observe her well with Cassio.(Act 3, Scene 3)

Explanation: In this line, Iago is planting suspicion in Othello’s mind, subtly suggesting that Desdemona is having an affair with Cassio.

I know, Iago,

Thy honesty and love doth mince this matter. (Act 2, Scene 3)

Explanation: In this line, Othello is speaking to Iago, expressing his belief that Iago is softening the truth out of loyalty and love for Cassio. Othello believes that Iago is being kind and downplaying Cassio’s involvement in the recent fight because he cares for him. Ironically, Othello completely trusts Iago, unaware that Iago is actually deceiving him and manipulating the situation for his own evil purposes.

Loved not wisely, but too well.  (Act 5, Scene 2)

Explanation: In this line, Othello is reflecting on his tragic flaw—his overwhelming love for Desdemona, which led him to make unwise decisions. He acknowledges that while his love for her was deep and passionate, it lacked wisdom.

She loved me for the dangers I had passed,

And I loved her that she did pity them. (Act 1, Scene 3)

Explanation: In this line, Othello is explaining how he and Desdemona fell in love. Desdemona was moved by the stories of the challenges and dangers Othello had faced in his life, and her compassion made her fall in love with him. In turn, Othello loved her because she pitied his hardships.