Othello is a general in the Venetian army and is married to Desdemona.
Iago is Othello’s trusted junior officer. He is jealous of Cassio’s promotion.
Desdemona is the daughter of Brabantio and Othello’s new wife.
Emilia is Iago’s wife and works as Desdemona’s maid when they travel to Cyprus.
Cassio has just been promoted to lieutenant by Othello and is loyal to him.
Brabantio is Desdemona’s father and an important senator in Venice.
Bianca is a young woman who is in love with Cassio.
Roderigo is young and rich. He wants to marry Desdemona and is friends with Iago.
The following activity is a great way to develop an understanding of the characters with a group of students.
The activity can be found on page 4 and takes approximately 20 minutes.
We’d love to know what you think about the Shakespeare Learning Zone. Help us by taking a short survey – it will only take a few minutes and will help us make the Shakespeare Learning Zone even better for everyone.