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No Fear Translations
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Modern Text |
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Enter MONTANO and two GENTLEMEN
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Enter MONTANO and two GENTLEMEN
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MONTANO What from the cape can you discern at sea?
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MONTANO What from the cape can you discern at sea?
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FIRST GENTLEMAN Nothing at all. It is a high-wrought flood.
I cannot ’twixt the heaven and the main
Descry a sail.
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FIRST GENTLEMAN Nothing at all. It is a high-wrought flood.
I cannot ’twixt the heaven and the main
Descry a sail.
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MONTANO 5 Methinks the wind hath spoke aloud at land,
A fuller blast ne'er shook our battlements.
If it hath ruffianed so upon the sea
What ribs of oak, when mountains melt on them,
Can hold the mortise? What shall we hear of this?
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MONTANO Methinks the wind hath spoke aloud at land,
A fuller blast ne'er shook our battlements.
If it hath ruffianed so upon the sea
What ribs of oak, when mountains melt on them,
Can hold the mortise? What shall we hear of this?
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SECOND GENTLEMAN 10 A segregation of the Turkish fleet.
For do but stand upon the foaming shore,
The chidden billow seems to pelt the clouds,
The wind-shaked surge, with high and monstrous mane,
Seems to cast water on the burning bear,
I never did like molestation view
On the enchafèd flood.
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SECOND GENTLEMAN A segregation of the Turkish fleet.
For do but stand upon the foaming shore,
The chidden billow seems to pelt the clouds,
The wind-shaked surge, with high and monstrous mane,
Seems to cast water on the burning bear,
I never did like molestation view
On the enchafèd flood.
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MONTANO If that the Turkish fleet
Be not ensheltered and embayed, they are drowned.
20 It is impossible they bear it out.
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MONTANO If that the Turkish fleet
Be not ensheltered and embayed, they are drowned.
It is impossible they bear it out.
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Enter a THIRD GENTLEMAN
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Enter a THIRD GENTLEMAN
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THIRD GENTLEMAN News, lads, Our wars are done!
The desperate tempest hath so banged the Turks,
That their designment halts. A noble ship of Venice
Hath seen a grievous wreck and sufferance
25 On most part of their fleet.
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THIRD GENTLEMAN News, lads, Our wars are done!
The desperate tempest hath so banged the Turks,
That their designment halts. A noble ship of Venice
Hath seen a grievous wreck and sufferance
On most part of their fleet.
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MONTANO How? Is this true?
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MONTANO How? Is this true?
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THIRD GENTLEMAN The ship is here put in,
A Veronesa. Michael Cassio,
Lieutenant to the warlike Moor Othello,
Is come on shore. The Moor himself at sea
30 And is in full commission here for Cyprus.
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THIRD GENTLEMAN The ship is here put in,
A Veronesa. Michael Cassio,
Lieutenant to the warlike Moor Othello,
Is come on shore. The Moor himself at sea
And is in full commission here for Cyprus.
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MONTANO I am glad on ’t. 'Tis a worthy governor.
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MONTANO I am glad on ’t. 'Tis a worthy governor.
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THIRD GENTLEMAN But this same Cassio, though he speak of comfort
Touching the Turkish loss, yet he looks sadly
And prays the Moor be safe. For they were parted
35 With foul and violent tempest.
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THIRD GENTLEMAN But this same Cassio, though he speak of comfort
Touching the Turkish loss, yet he looks sadly
And prays the Moor be safe. For they were parted
With foul and violent tempest.
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MONTANO Pray heavens he be,
For I have served him, and the man commands
Like a full soldier. Let’s to the seaside, ho!
As well to see the vessel that’s come in
As to throw out our eyes for brave Othello,
40 Even till we make the main and th' aerial blue
An indistinct regard.
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MONTANO Pray heavens he be,
For I have served him, and the man commands
Like a full soldier. Let’s to the seaside, ho!
As well to see the vessel that’s come in
As to throw out our eyes for brave Othello,
Even till we make the main and th' aerial blue
An indistinct regard.
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THIRD GENTLEMAN Come, let’s do so.
For every minute is expectancy
Of more arrivance.
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THIRD GENTLEMAN Come, let’s do so.
For every minute is expectancy
Of more arrivance.
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Enter CASSIO
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Enter CASSIO
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CASSIO Thanks, you the valiant of this warlike isle
45 That so approve the Moor. Oh, let the heavens
Give him defense against the elements,
For I have lost him on a dangerous sea.
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CASSIO Thanks, you the valiant of this warlike isle
That so approve the Moor. Oh, let the heavens
Give him defense against the elements,
For I have lost him on a dangerous sea.
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MONTANO Is he well shipped?
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MONTANO Is he well shipped?
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CASSIO His bark is stoutly timbered and his pilot
50 Of very expert and approved allowance
Therefore my hopes, not surfeited to death,
Stand in bold cure.
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CASSIO His bark is stoutly timbered and his pilot
Of very expert and approved allowance
Therefore my hopes, not surfeited to death,
Stand in bold cure.
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A VOICE (within) A sail, a sail, a sail!
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A VOICE (within) A sail, a sail, a sail!
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Enter a MESSENGER
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Enter a MESSENGER
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CASSIO What noise?
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CASSIO What noise?
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MESSENGER 55 The town is empty. On the brow o' th' sea
Stand ranks of people, and they cry “A sail!”
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MESSENGER The town is empty. On the brow o' th' sea
Stand ranks of people, and they cry “A sail!”
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CASSIO My hopes do shape him for the governor.
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CASSIO My hopes do shape him for the governor.
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A shot
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A shot
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SECOND GENTLEMAN They do discharge their shot of courtesy.
Our friends at least.
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SECOND GENTLEMAN They do discharge their shot of courtesy.
Our friends at least.
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CASSIO 60 I pray you sir, go forth
And give us truth who ’tis that is arrived.
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CASSIO I pray you sir, go forth
And give us truth who ’tis that is arrived.
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SECOND GENTLEMAN I shall.
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SECOND GENTLEMAN I shall.
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Exit
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Exit
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MONTANO But good lieutenant, is your general wived?
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MONTANO But good lieutenant, is your general wived?
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CASSIO Most fortunately. He hath achieved a maid
65 That paragons description and wild fame,
One that excels the quirks of blazoning pens,
And in th' essential vesture of creation
Does tire the ingener.
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CASSIO Most fortunately. He hath achieved a maid
That paragons description and wild fame,
One that excels the quirks of blazoning pens,
And in th' essential vesture of creation
Does tire the ingener.
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Enter SECOND GENTLEMAN
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Enter SECOND GENTLEMAN
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How now? Who has put in?
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How now? Who has put in?
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SECOND GENTLEMAN 70 'Tis one Iago, ancient to the general.
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SECOND GENTLEMAN 'Tis one Iago, ancient to the general.
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CASSIO He’s had most favorable and happy speed.
Tempests themselves, high seas, and howling winds,
The guttered rocks and congregated sands,
Traitors ensteeped to enclog the guiltless keel,
75 As having sense of beauty, do omit
Their mortal natures, letting go safely by
The divine Desdemona.
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CASSIO He’s had most favorable and happy speed.
Tempests themselves, high seas, and howling winds,
The guttered rocks and congregated sands,
Traitors ensteeped to enclog the guiltless keel,
As having sense of beauty, do omit
Their mortal natures, letting go safely by
The divine Desdemona.
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MONTANO What is she?
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MONTANO What is she?
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CASSIO She that I spake of, our great captain’s captain,
80 Left in the conduct of the bold Iago,
Whose footing here anticipates our thoughts
A se'nnight’s speed. Great Jove, Othello guard,
And swell his sail with thine own powerful breath,
That he may bless this bay with his tall ship,
85 Make love’s quick pants in Desdemona’s arms,
Give renewed fire to our extincted spirits
And bring all Cyprus comfort!
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CASSIO She that I spake of, our great captain’s captain,
Left in the conduct of the bold Iago,
Whose footing here anticipates our thoughts
A se'nnight’s speed. Great Jove, Othello guard,
And swell his sail with thine own powerful breath,
That he may bless this bay with his tall ship,
Make love’s quick pants in Desdemona’s arms,
Give renewed fire to our extincted spirits
And bring all Cyprus comfort!
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Enter DESDEMONA , EMILIA , IAGO , RODERIGO with attendants
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Enter DESDEMONA , EMILIA , IAGO , RODERIGO with attendants
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Oh, behold,
The riches of the ship is come on shore!
You men of Cyprus, let her have your knees.
90 Hail to thee, lady, and the grace of heaven,
Before, behind thee, and on every hand,
Enwheel thee round!
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Oh, behold,
The riches of the ship is come on shore!
You men of Cyprus, let her have your knees.
Hail to thee, lady, and the grace of heaven,
Before, behind thee, and on every hand,
Enwheel thee round!
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DESDEMONA I thank you, valiant Cassio.
What tidings can you tell me of my lord?
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DESDEMONA I thank you, valiant Cassio.
What tidings can you tell me of my lord?
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CASSIO 95 He is not yet arrived. Nor know I aught
But that he’s well and will be shortly here.
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CASSIO He is not yet arrived. Nor know I aught
But that he’s well and will be shortly here.
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DESDEMONA Oh, but I fear. How lost you company?
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DESDEMONA Oh, but I fear. How lost you company?
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CASSIO The great contention of the sea and skies
Parted our fellowship—
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CASSIO The great contention of the sea and skies
Parted our fellowship—
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A VOICE |
A VOICE |
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CASSIO But, hark! a sail.
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CASSIO But, hark! a sail.
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A shot
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A shot
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SECOND GENTLEMAN They give this greeting to the citadel.
This likewise is a friend.
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SECOND GENTLEMAN They give this greeting to the citadel.
This likewise is a friend.
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CASSIO See for the news.
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CASSIO See for the news.
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Exit a SECOND GENTLEMEN
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Exit a SECOND GENTLEMEN
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Good ancient, you are welcome.—Welcome, mistress.
Let it not gall your patience, good Iago,
That I extend my manners. 'Tis my breeding
That gives me this bold show of courtesy.
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Good ancient, you are welcome.—Welcome, mistress.
Let it not gall your patience, good Iago,
That I extend my manners. 'Tis my breeding
That gives me this bold show of courtesy.
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IAGO Sir, would she give you so much of her lips
110 As of her tongue she oft bestows on me,
You’ll have enough.
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IAGO Sir, would she give you so much of her lips
As of her tongue she oft bestows on me,
You’ll have enough.
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DESDEMONA Alas, she has no speech!
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DESDEMONA Alas, she has no speech!
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IAGO In faith, too much.
I find it still, when I have leave to sleep.
115 Marry, before your ladyship, I grant,
She puts her tongue a little in her heart
And chides with thinking.
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IAGO In faith, too much.
I find it still, when I have leave to sleep.
Marry, before your ladyship, I grant,
She puts her tongue a little in her heart
And chides with thinking.
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EMILIA You have little cause to say so.
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EMILIA You have little cause to say so.
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IAGO Come on, come on. You are pictures out of door, bells in your parlors, wild-cats in your kitchens, saints in your injuries, devils being offended, players in your housewifery, and housewives in your beds.
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IAGO Come on, come on. You are pictures out of door, bells in your parlors, wild-cats in your kitchens, saints in your injuries, devils being offended, players in your housewifery, and housewives in your beds.
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DESDEMONA Oh, fie upon thee, slanderer!
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DESDEMONA Oh, fie upon thee, slanderer!
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IAGO 120 Nay, it is true, or else I am a Turk.
You rise to play and go to bed to work.
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IAGO Nay, it is true, or else I am a Turk.
You rise to play and go to bed to work.
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EMILIA You shall not write my praise.
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EMILIA You shall not write my praise.
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IAGO No, let me not.
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IAGO No, let me not.
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DESDEMONA What wouldst thou write of me, if thou should’st praise me?
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DESDEMONA What wouldst thou write of me, if thou should’st praise me?
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IAGO O gentle lady, do not put me to ’t,
125 For I am nothing, if not critical.
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IAGO O gentle lady, do not put me to ’t,
For I am nothing, if not critical.
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DESDEMONA Come on, assay. There’s one gone to the harbor?
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DESDEMONA Come on, assay. There’s one gone to the harbor?
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IAGO Ay, madam.
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IAGO Ay, madam.
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DESDEMONA I am not merry, but I do beguile
The thing I am by seeming otherwise.
130 Come, how wouldst thou praise me?
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DESDEMONA I am not merry, but I do beguile
The thing I am by seeming otherwise.
Come, how wouldst thou praise me?
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IAGO I am about it, but indeed my invention
Comes from my pate as birdlime does from frieze,
It plucks out brains and all. But my Muse labors
And thus she is delivered:
135 If she be fair and wise, fairness and wit,
The one’s for use, the other useth it.
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IAGO I am about it, but indeed my invention
Comes from my pate as birdlime does from frieze,
It plucks out brains and all. But my Muse labors
And thus she is delivered:
If she be fair and wise, fairness and wit,
The one’s for use, the other useth it.
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DESDEMONA Well praised! How if she be black and witty?
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DESDEMONA Well praised! How if she be black and witty?
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IAGO If she be black, and thereto have a wit,
She’ll find a white that shall her blackness fit.
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IAGO If she be black, and thereto have a wit,
She’ll find a white that shall her blackness fit.
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DESDEMONA 140 Worse and worse!
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DESDEMONA Worse and worse!
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EMILIA How if fair and foolish?
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EMILIA How if fair and foolish?
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IAGO She never yet was foolish that was fair,
For even her folly helped her to an heir.
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IAGO She never yet was foolish that was fair,
For even her folly helped her to an heir.
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DESDEMONA These are old fond paradoxes to make fools laugh i' th' alehouse. What miserable praise hast thou for her
That’s foul and foolish?
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DESDEMONA These are old fond paradoxes to make fools laugh i' th' alehouse. What miserable praise hast thou for her
That’s foul and foolish?
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IAGO 145 There’s none so foul and foolish thereunto,
But does foul pranks which fair and wise ones do.
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IAGO There’s none so foul and foolish thereunto,
But does foul pranks which fair and wise ones do.
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DESDEMONA Oh, heavy ignorance! Thou praisest the worst best. But what praise couldst thou bestow on a deserving woman indeed, one that in the authority of her merit did justly put on the vouch of very malice itself?
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DESDEMONA Oh, heavy ignorance! Thou praisest the worst best. But what praise couldst thou bestow on a deserving woman indeed, one that in the authority of her merit did justly put on the vouch of very malice itself?
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IAGO She that was ever fair and never proud,
Had tongue at will and yet was never loud,
150 Never lacked gold and yet went never gay,
Fled from her wish and yet said “Now I may,”
She that being angered, her revenge being nigh,
Bade her wrong stay and her displeasure fly,
She that in wisdom never was so frail
She that could think and ne'er disclose her mind,
See suitors following and not look behind,
She was a wight, if ever such wights were—
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IAGO She that was ever fair and never proud,
Had tongue at will and yet was never loud,
Never lacked gold and yet went never gay,
Fled from her wish and yet said “Now I may,”
She that being angered, her revenge being nigh,
Bade her wrong stay and her displeasure fly,
She that in wisdom never was so frail
She that could think and ne'er disclose her mind,
See suitors following and not look behind,
She was a wight, if ever such wights were—
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DESDEMONA To do what?
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DESDEMONA To do what?
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IAGO 160 To suckle fools and chronicle small beer.
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IAGO To suckle fools and chronicle small beer.
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DESDEMONA Oh, most lame and impotent conclusion! Do not learn of him, Emilia, though he be thy husband. How say you, Cassio? Is he not a most profane and liberal counselor?
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DESDEMONA Oh, most lame and impotent conclusion! Do not learn of him, Emilia, though he be thy husband. How say you, Cassio? Is he not a most profane and liberal counselor?
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CASSIO He speaks home, madam. You may relish him more in the soldier than in the scholar.
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CASSIO He speaks home, madam. You may relish him more in the soldier than in the scholar.
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CASSIO takes DESDEMONA'S hand
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CASSIO takes DESDEMONA'S hand
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IAGO (aside) He takes her by the palm. Ay, well said, whisper! With as little a web as this will I ensnare as great a fly as Cassio. Ay, smile upon her, do, I will gyve thee in thine own courtship. You say true, 'Tis so, indeed.
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IAGO (aside) He takes her by the palm. Ay, well said, whisper! With as little a web as this will I ensnare as great a fly as Cassio. Ay, smile upon her, do, I will gyve thee in thine own courtship. You say true, 'Tis so, indeed.
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If such tricks as these strip you out of your lieutenantry, it had been better you had not kissed your three fingers so oft, which now again you are most apt to play the sir in. Very good, well kissed, and excellent courtesy! ’tis so, indeed. Yet again your fingers to your lips? Would they were clyster-pipes for your sake!—
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If such tricks as these strip you out of your lieutenantry, it had been better you had not kissed your three fingers so oft, which now again you are most apt to play the sir in. Very good, well kissed, and excellent courtesy! ’tis so, indeed. Yet again your fingers to your lips? Would they were clyster-pipes for your sake!—
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Trumpet within
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Trumpet within
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165 The Moor! I know his trumpet.
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The Moor! I know his trumpet.
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CASSIO 'Tis truly so.
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CASSIO 'Tis truly so.
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DESDEMONA Let’s meet him and receive him.
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DESDEMONA Let’s meet him and receive him.
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CASSIO Lo, where he comes!
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CASSIO Lo, where he comes!
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Enter OTHELLO and attendants
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Enter OTHELLO and attendants
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OTHELLO Oh my fair warrior!
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OTHELLO Oh my fair warrior!
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DESDEMONA My dear Othello!
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DESDEMONA My dear Othello!
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OTHELLO It gives me wonder great as my content
To see you here before me. Oh, my soul’s joy!
170 If after every tempest come such calms,
May the winds blow till they have wakened death,
And let the laboring bark climb hills of seas
Olympus-high, and duck again as low
As hell’s from heaven! If it were now to die,
175 'Twere now to be most happy, for I fear
My soul hath her content so absolute
That not another comfort like to this
Succeeds in unknown fate.
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OTHELLO It gives me wonder great as my content
To see you here before me. Oh, my soul’s joy!
If after every tempest come such calms,
May the winds blow till they have wakened death,
And let the laboring bark climb hills of seas
Olympus-high, and duck again as low
As hell’s from heaven! If it were now to die,
'Twere now to be most happy, for I fear
My soul hath her content so absolute
That not another comfort like to this
Succeeds in unknown fate.
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DESDEMONA The heavens forbid
But that our loves and comforts should increase,
180 Even as our days do grow.
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DESDEMONA The heavens forbid
But that our loves and comforts should increase,
Even as our days do grow.
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OTHELLO Amen to that, sweet powers!
I cannot speak enough of this content.
It stops me here, it is too much of joy.
And this, and this, the greatest discords be (kissing her)
That e'er our hearts shall make!
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OTHELLO Amen to that, sweet powers!
I cannot speak enough of this content.
It stops me here, it is too much of joy.
And this, and this, the greatest discords be (kissing her)
That e'er our hearts shall make!
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IAGO Oh, you are well tuned now,
But I’ll set down the pegs that make this music,
As honest as I am.
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IAGO Oh, you are well tuned now,
But I’ll set down the pegs that make this music,
As honest as I am.
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OTHELLO Come, let us to the castle.
News, friends! Our wars are done, the Turks are drowned.
How does my old acquaintance of this isle?—
190 Honey, you shall be well desired in Cyprus,
I have found great love amongst them. O my sweet,
I prattle out of fashion, and I dote
In mine own comforts.—I prithee, good Iago,
Go to the bay and disembark my coffers.
195 Bring thou the master to the citadel.
He is a good one, and his worthiness
Does challenge much respect.—Come, Desdemona,
Once more, well met at Cyprus.
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OTHELLO Come, let us to the castle.
News, friends! Our wars are done, the Turks are drowned.
How does my old acquaintance of this isle?—
Honey, you shall be well desired in Cyprus,
I have found great love amongst them. O my sweet,
I prattle out of fashion, and I dote
In mine own comforts.—I prithee, good Iago,
Go to the bay and disembark my coffers.
Bring thou the master to the citadel.
He is a good one, and his worthiness
Does challenge much respect.—Come, Desdemona,
Once more, well met at Cyprus.
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Exeunt OTHELLO , DESDEMONA , and attendants
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Exeunt OTHELLO , DESDEMONA , and attendants
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IAGO Do thou meet me presently at the harbor.—Come hither. If thou be’st valiant, as they say base men being in love have then a nobility in their natures more than is native to them, list me. The lieutenant tonight watches on the court of guard. First, I must tell thee this: Desdemona is directly in love with him.
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IAGO Do thou meet me presently at the harbor.—Come hither. If thou be’st valiant, as they say base men being in love have then a nobility in their natures more than is native to them, list me. The lieutenant tonight watches on the court of guard. First, I must tell thee this: Desdemona is directly in love with him.
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RODERIGO 200 With him? Why, ’tis not possible.
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RODERIGO With him? Why, ’tis not possible.
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IAGO Lay thy finger thus, and let thy soul be instructed. Mark me with what violence she first loved the Moor, but for bragging and telling her fantastical lies. To love him still for prating? Let not thy discreet heart think it. Her eye must be fed, and what delight shall she have to look on the devil? When the blood is made dull with the act of sport, there should be a game to inflame it and to give satiety a fresh appetite, loveliness in favor, sympathy in years, manners and beauties. All which the Moor is defective in. Now for want of these required conveniences, her delicate tenderness will find itself abused, begin to heave the gorge, disrelish and abhor the Moor. Very nature will instruct her in it and compel her to some second choice. Now sir, this granted—as it is a most pregnant and unforced position—who stands so eminent in the degree of this fortune as Cassio does? A knave very voluble, no further conscionable than in putting on the mere form of civil and humane seeming, for the better compassing of his salt and most hidden loose affection. Why, none, why, none! A slipper and subtle knave, a finder of occasions that has an eye, can stamp and counterfeit advantages, though true advantage never present itself. A devilish knave. Besides, the knave is handsome, young, and hath all those requisites in him that folly and green minds look after. A pestilent complete knave, and the woman hath found him already.
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IAGO Lay thy finger thus, and let thy soul be instructed. Mark me with what violence she first loved the Moor, but for bragging and telling her fantastical lies. To love him still for prating? Let not thy discreet heart think it. Her eye must be fed, and what delight shall she have to look on the devil? When the blood is made dull with the act of sport, there should be a game to inflame it and to give satiety a fresh appetite, loveliness in favor, sympathy in years, manners and beauties. All which the Moor is defective in. Now for want of these required conveniences, her delicate tenderness will find itself abused, begin to heave the gorge, disrelish and abhor the Moor. Very nature will instruct her in it and compel her to some second choice. Now sir, this granted—as it is a most pregnant and unforced position—who stands so eminent in the degree of this fortune as Cassio does? A knave very voluble, no further conscionable than in putting on the mere form of civil and humane seeming, for the better compassing of his salt and most hidden loose affection. Why, none, why, none! A slipper and subtle knave, a finder of occasions that has an eye, can stamp and counterfeit advantages, though true advantage never present itself. A devilish knave. Besides, the knave is handsome, young, and hath all those requisites in him that folly and green minds look after. A pestilent complete knave, and the woman hath found him already.
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RODERIGO I cannot believe that in her. She’s full of most blessed condition.
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RODERIGO I cannot believe that in her. She’s full of most blessed condition.
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IAGO Blessed fig’s-end! The wine she drinks is made of grapes. If she had been blessed, she would never have loved the Moor. Blessed pudding! Didst thou not see her paddle with the palm of his hand? Didst not mark that?
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IAGO Blessed fig’s-end! The wine she drinks is made of grapes. If she had been blessed, she would never have loved the Moor. Blessed pudding! Didst thou not see her paddle with the palm of his hand? Didst not mark that?
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RODERIGO Yes, that I did, but that was but courtesy.
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RODERIGO Yes, that I did, but that was but courtesy.
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IAGO |
IAGO |
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RODERIGO Well.
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RODERIGO Well.
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IAGO Sir, he’s rash and very sudden in choler, and haply may strike at you. Provoke him that he may. For even out of that will I cause these of Cyprus to mutiny, whose qualification shall come into no true taste again but by the displanting of Cassio. So shall you have a shorter journey to your desires by the means I shall then have to prefer them, and the impediment most profitably removed, without the which there were no expectation of our prosperity.
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IAGO Sir, he’s rash and very sudden in choler, and haply may strike at you. Provoke him that he may. For even out of that will I cause these of Cyprus to mutiny, whose qualification shall come into no true taste again but by the displanting of Cassio. So shall you have a shorter journey to your desires by the means I shall then have to prefer them, and the impediment most profitably removed, without the which there were no expectation of our prosperity.
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RODERIGO I will do this, if you can bring it to any opportunity.
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RODERIGO I will do this, if you can bring it to any opportunity.
|
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IAGO I warrant thee. Meet me by and by at the citadel. I must fetch his necessaries ashore. Farewell.
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IAGO I warrant thee. Meet me by and by at the citadel. I must fetch his necessaries ashore. Farewell.
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RODERIGO 210 Adieu.
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RODERIGO Adieu.
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Exit
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Exit
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IAGO That Cassio loves her, I do well believe ’t.
That she loves him, ’tis apt and of great credit.
The Moor, howbeit that I endure him not,
Is of a constant, loving, noble nature,
215 And I dare think he’ll prove to Desdemona
A most dear husband. Now, I do love her too,
Not out of absolute lust—though peradventure
I stand accountant for as great a sin—
But partly led to diet my revenge,
220 For that I do suspect the lusty Moor
Hath leaped into my seat. The thought whereof
Doth, like a poisonous mineral, gnaw my inwards,
And nothing can or shall content my soul
Till I am evened with him, wife for wife.
225 Or, failing so, yet that I put the Moor
At least into a jealousy so strong
That judgment cannot cure. Which thing to do,
If this poor trash of Venice, whom I trace
For his quick hunting, stand the putting on,
230 I’ll have our Michael Cassio on the hip,
Abuse him to the Moor in the right garb
(For I fear Cassio with my night-cape too)
Make the Moor thank me, love me, and reward me
For making him egregiously an ass
235 And practicing upon his peace and quiet
Even to madness. 'Tis here, but yet confused.
Knavery’s plain face is never seen till used.
|
IAGO That Cassio loves her, I do well believe ’t.
That she loves him, ’tis apt and of great credit.
The Moor, howbeit that I endure him not,
Is of a constant, loving, noble nature,
And I dare think he’ll prove to Desdemona
A most dear husband. Now, I do love her too,
Not out of absolute lust—though peradventure
I stand accountant for as great a sin—
But partly led to diet my revenge,
For that I do suspect the lusty Moor
Hath leaped into my seat. The thought whereof
Doth, like a poisonous mineral, gnaw my inwards,
And nothing can or shall content my soul
Till I am evened with him, wife for wife.
Or, failing so, yet that I put the Moor
At least into a jealousy so strong
That judgment cannot cure. Which thing to do,
If this poor trash of Venice, whom I trace
For his quick hunting, stand the putting on,
I’ll have our Michael Cassio on the hip,
Abuse him to the Moor in the right garb
(For I fear Cassio with my night-cape too)
Make the Moor thank me, love me, and reward me
For making him egregiously an ass
And practicing upon his peace and quiet
Even to madness. 'Tis here, but yet confused.
Knavery’s plain face is never seen till used.
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Exit
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Exit
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Original Text |
Modern Text |
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Enter MONTANO and two GENTLEMEN
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Enter MONTANO and two GENTLEMEN
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MONTANO What from the cape can you discern at sea?
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MONTANO What from the cape can you discern at sea?
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FIRST GENTLEMAN Nothing at all. It is a high-wrought flood.
I cannot ’twixt the heaven and the main
Descry a sail.
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FIRST GENTLEMAN Nothing at all. It is a high-wrought flood.
I cannot ’twixt the heaven and the main
Descry a sail.
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MONTANO 5 Methinks the wind hath spoke aloud at land,
A fuller blast ne'er shook our battlements.
If it hath ruffianed so upon the sea
What ribs of oak, when mountains melt on them,
Can hold the mortise? What shall we hear of this?
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MONTANO Methinks the wind hath spoke aloud at land,
A fuller blast ne'er shook our battlements.
If it hath ruffianed so upon the sea
What ribs of oak, when mountains melt on them,
Can hold the mortise? What shall we hear of this?
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SECOND GENTLEMAN 10 A segregation of the Turkish fleet.
For do but stand upon the foaming shore,
The chidden billow seems to pelt the clouds,
The wind-shaked surge, with high and monstrous mane,
Seems to cast water on the burning bear,
I never did like molestation view
On the enchafèd flood.
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SECOND GENTLEMAN A segregation of the Turkish fleet.
For do but stand upon the foaming shore,
The chidden billow seems to pelt the clouds,
The wind-shaked surge, with high and monstrous mane,
Seems to cast water on the burning bear,
I never did like molestation view
On the enchafèd flood.
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MONTANO If that the Turkish fleet
Be not ensheltered and embayed, they are drowned.
20 It is impossible they bear it out.
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MONTANO If that the Turkish fleet
Be not ensheltered and embayed, they are drowned.
It is impossible they bear it out.
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Enter a THIRD GENTLEMAN
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Enter a THIRD GENTLEMAN
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THIRD GENTLEMAN News, lads, Our wars are done!
The desperate tempest hath so banged the Turks,
That their designment halts. A noble ship of Venice
Hath seen a grievous wreck and sufferance
25 On most part of their fleet.
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THIRD GENTLEMAN News, lads, Our wars are done!
The desperate tempest hath so banged the Turks,
That their designment halts. A noble ship of Venice
Hath seen a grievous wreck and sufferance
On most part of their fleet.
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MONTANO How? Is this true?
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MONTANO How? Is this true?
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THIRD GENTLEMAN The ship is here put in,
A Veronesa. Michael Cassio,
Lieutenant to the warlike Moor Othello,
Is come on shore. The Moor himself at sea
30 And is in full commission here for Cyprus.
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THIRD GENTLEMAN The ship is here put in,
A Veronesa. Michael Cassio,
Lieutenant to the warlike Moor Othello,
Is come on shore. The Moor himself at sea
And is in full commission here for Cyprus.
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MONTANO I am glad on ’t. 'Tis a worthy governor.
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MONTANO I am glad on ’t. 'Tis a worthy governor.
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THIRD GENTLEMAN But this same Cassio, though he speak of comfort
Touching the Turkish loss, yet he looks sadly
And prays the Moor be safe. For they were parted
35 With foul and violent tempest.
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THIRD GENTLEMAN But this same Cassio, though he speak of comfort
Touching the Turkish loss, yet he looks sadly
And prays the Moor be safe. For they were parted
With foul and violent tempest.
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MONTANO Pray heavens he be,
For I have served him, and the man commands
Like a full soldier. Let’s to the seaside, ho!
As well to see the vessel that’s come in
As to throw out our eyes for brave Othello,
40 Even till we make the main and th' aerial blue
An indistinct regard.
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MONTANO Pray heavens he be,
For I have served him, and the man commands
Like a full soldier. Let’s to the seaside, ho!
As well to see the vessel that’s come in
As to throw out our eyes for brave Othello,
Even till we make the main and th' aerial blue
An indistinct regard.
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THIRD GENTLEMAN Come, let’s do so.
For every minute is expectancy
Of more arrivance.
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THIRD GENTLEMAN Come, let’s do so.
For every minute is expectancy
Of more arrivance.
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Enter CASSIO
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Enter CASSIO
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CASSIO Thanks, you the valiant of this warlike isle
45 That so approve the Moor. Oh, let the heavens
Give him defense against the elements,
For I have lost him on a dangerous sea.
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CASSIO Thanks, you the valiant of this warlike isle
That so approve the Moor. Oh, let the heavens
Give him defense against the elements,
For I have lost him on a dangerous sea.
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MONTANO Is he well shipped?
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MONTANO Is he well shipped?
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CASSIO His bark is stoutly timbered and his pilot
50 Of very expert and approved allowance
Therefore my hopes, not surfeited to death,
Stand in bold cure.
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CASSIO His bark is stoutly timbered and his pilot
Of very expert and approved allowance
Therefore my hopes, not surfeited to death,
Stand in bold cure.
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A VOICE (within) A sail, a sail, a sail!
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A VOICE (within) A sail, a sail, a sail!
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Enter a MESSENGER
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Enter a MESSENGER
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CASSIO What noise?
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CASSIO What noise?
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MESSENGER 55 The town is empty. On the brow o' th' sea
Stand ranks of people, and they cry “A sail!”
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MESSENGER The town is empty. On the brow o' th' sea
Stand ranks of people, and they cry “A sail!”
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CASSIO My hopes do shape him for the governor.
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CASSIO My hopes do shape him for the governor.
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A shot
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A shot
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SECOND GENTLEMAN They do discharge their shot of courtesy.
Our friends at least.
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SECOND GENTLEMAN They do discharge their shot of courtesy.
Our friends at least.
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CASSIO 60 I pray you sir, go forth
And give us truth who ’tis that is arrived.
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CASSIO I pray you sir, go forth
And give us truth who ’tis that is arrived.
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SECOND GENTLEMAN I shall.
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SECOND GENTLEMAN I shall.
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Exit
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Exit
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MONTANO But good lieutenant, is your general wived?
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MONTANO But good lieutenant, is your general wived?
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CASSIO Most fortunately. He hath achieved a maid
65 That paragons description and wild fame,
One that excels the quirks of blazoning pens,
And in th' essential vesture of creation
Does tire the ingener.
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CASSIO Most fortunately. He hath achieved a maid
That paragons description and wild fame,
One that excels the quirks of blazoning pens,
And in th' essential vesture of creation
Does tire the ingener.
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Enter SECOND GENTLEMAN
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Enter SECOND GENTLEMAN
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How now? Who has put in?
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How now? Who has put in?
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SECOND GENTLEMAN 70 'Tis one Iago, ancient to the general.
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SECOND GENTLEMAN 'Tis one Iago, ancient to the general.
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CASSIO He’s had most favorable and happy speed.
Tempests themselves, high seas, and howling winds,
The guttered rocks and congregated sands,
Traitors ensteeped to enclog the guiltless keel,
75 As having sense of beauty, do omit
Their mortal natures, letting go safely by
The divine Desdemona.
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CASSIO He’s had most favorable and happy speed.
Tempests themselves, high seas, and howling winds,
The guttered rocks and congregated sands,
Traitors ensteeped to enclog the guiltless keel,
As having sense of beauty, do omit
Their mortal natures, letting go safely by
The divine Desdemona.
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MONTANO What is she?
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MONTANO What is she?
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CASSIO She that I spake of, our great captain’s captain,
80 Left in the conduct of the bold Iago,
Whose footing here anticipates our thoughts
A se'nnight’s speed. Great Jove, Othello guard,
And swell his sail with thine own powerful breath,
That he may bless this bay with his tall ship,
85 Make love’s quick pants in Desdemona’s arms,
Give renewed fire to our extincted spirits
And bring all Cyprus comfort!
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CASSIO She that I spake of, our great captain’s captain,
Left in the conduct of the bold Iago,
Whose footing here anticipates our thoughts
A se'nnight’s speed. Great Jove, Othello guard,
And swell his sail with thine own powerful breath,
That he may bless this bay with his tall ship,
Make love’s quick pants in Desdemona’s arms,
Give renewed fire to our extincted spirits
And bring all Cyprus comfort!
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|
Enter DESDEMONA , EMILIA , IAGO , RODERIGO with attendants
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Enter DESDEMONA , EMILIA , IAGO , RODERIGO with attendants
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|
Oh, behold,
The riches of the ship is come on shore!
You men of Cyprus, let her have your knees.
90 Hail to thee, lady, and the grace of heaven,
Before, behind thee, and on every hand,
Enwheel thee round!
|
Oh, behold,
The riches of the ship is come on shore!
You men of Cyprus, let her have your knees.
Hail to thee, lady, and the grace of heaven,
Before, behind thee, and on every hand,
Enwheel thee round!
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DESDEMONA I thank you, valiant Cassio.
What tidings can you tell me of my lord?
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DESDEMONA I thank you, valiant Cassio.
What tidings can you tell me of my lord?
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CASSIO 95 He is not yet arrived. Nor know I aught
But that he’s well and will be shortly here.
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CASSIO He is not yet arrived. Nor know I aught
But that he’s well and will be shortly here.
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|
DESDEMONA Oh, but I fear. How lost you company?
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DESDEMONA Oh, but I fear. How lost you company?
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CASSIO The great contention of the sea and skies
Parted our fellowship—
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CASSIO The great contention of the sea and skies
Parted our fellowship—
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A VOICE |
A VOICE |
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CASSIO But, hark! a sail.
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CASSIO But, hark! a sail.
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A shot
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A shot
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SECOND GENTLEMAN They give this greeting to the citadel.
This likewise is a friend.
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SECOND GENTLEMAN They give this greeting to the citadel.
This likewise is a friend.
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CASSIO See for the news.
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CASSIO See for the news.
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Exit a SECOND GENTLEMEN
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Exit a SECOND GENTLEMEN
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Good ancient, you are welcome.—Welcome, mistress.
Let it not gall your patience, good Iago,
That I extend my manners. 'Tis my breeding
That gives me this bold show of courtesy.
|
Good ancient, you are welcome.—Welcome, mistress.
Let it not gall your patience, good Iago,
That I extend my manners. 'Tis my breeding
That gives me this bold show of courtesy.
|
|
IAGO Sir, would she give you so much of her lips
110 As of her tongue she oft bestows on me,
You’ll have enough.
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IAGO Sir, would she give you so much of her lips
As of her tongue she oft bestows on me,
You’ll have enough.
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DESDEMONA Alas, she has no speech!
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DESDEMONA Alas, she has no speech!
|
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IAGO In faith, too much.
I find it still, when I have leave to sleep.
115 Marry, before your ladyship, I grant,
She puts her tongue a little in her heart
And chides with thinking.
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IAGO In faith, too much.
I find it still, when I have leave to sleep.
Marry, before your ladyship, I grant,
She puts her tongue a little in her heart
And chides with thinking.
|
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EMILIA You have little cause to say so.
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EMILIA You have little cause to say so.
|
|
IAGO Come on, come on. You are pictures out of door, bells in your parlors, wild-cats in your kitchens, saints in your injuries, devils being offended, players in your housewifery, and housewives in your beds.
|
IAGO Come on, come on. You are pictures out of door, bells in your parlors, wild-cats in your kitchens, saints in your injuries, devils being offended, players in your housewifery, and housewives in your beds.
|
|
DESDEMONA Oh, fie upon thee, slanderer!
|
DESDEMONA Oh, fie upon thee, slanderer!
|
|
IAGO 120 Nay, it is true, or else I am a Turk.
You rise to play and go to bed to work.
|
IAGO Nay, it is true, or else I am a Turk.
You rise to play and go to bed to work.
|
|
EMILIA You shall not write my praise.
|
EMILIA You shall not write my praise.
|
|
IAGO No, let me not.
|
IAGO No, let me not.
|
|
DESDEMONA What wouldst thou write of me, if thou should’st praise me?
|
DESDEMONA What wouldst thou write of me, if thou should’st praise me?
|
|
IAGO O gentle lady, do not put me to ’t,
125 For I am nothing, if not critical.
|
IAGO O gentle lady, do not put me to ’t,
For I am nothing, if not critical.
|
|
DESDEMONA Come on, assay. There’s one gone to the harbor?
|
DESDEMONA Come on, assay. There’s one gone to the harbor?
|
|
IAGO Ay, madam.
|
IAGO Ay, madam.
|
|
DESDEMONA I am not merry, but I do beguile
The thing I am by seeming otherwise.
130 Come, how wouldst thou praise me?
|
DESDEMONA I am not merry, but I do beguile
The thing I am by seeming otherwise.
Come, how wouldst thou praise me?
|
|
IAGO I am about it, but indeed my invention
Comes from my pate as birdlime does from frieze,
It plucks out brains and all. But my Muse labors
And thus she is delivered:
135 If she be fair and wise, fairness and wit,
The one’s for use, the other useth it.
|
IAGO I am about it, but indeed my invention
Comes from my pate as birdlime does from frieze,
It plucks out brains and all. But my Muse labors
And thus she is delivered:
If she be fair and wise, fairness and wit,
The one’s for use, the other useth it.
|
|
DESDEMONA Well praised! How if she be black and witty?
|
DESDEMONA Well praised! How if she be black and witty?
|
|
IAGO If she be black, and thereto have a wit,
She’ll find a white that shall her blackness fit.
|
IAGO If she be black, and thereto have a wit,
She’ll find a white that shall her blackness fit.
|
|
DESDEMONA 140 Worse and worse!
|
DESDEMONA Worse and worse!
|
|
EMILIA How if fair and foolish?
|
EMILIA How if fair and foolish?
|
|
IAGO She never yet was foolish that was fair,
For even her folly helped her to an heir.
|
IAGO She never yet was foolish that was fair,
For even her folly helped her to an heir.
|
|
DESDEMONA These are old fond paradoxes to make fools laugh i' th' alehouse. What miserable praise hast thou for her
That’s foul and foolish?
|
DESDEMONA These are old fond paradoxes to make fools laugh i' th' alehouse. What miserable praise hast thou for her
That’s foul and foolish?
|
|
IAGO 145 There’s none so foul and foolish thereunto,
But does foul pranks which fair and wise ones do.
|
IAGO There’s none so foul and foolish thereunto,
But does foul pranks which fair and wise ones do.
|
|
DESDEMONA Oh, heavy ignorance! Thou praisest the worst best. But what praise couldst thou bestow on a deserving woman indeed, one that in the authority of her merit did justly put on the vouch of very malice itself?
|
DESDEMONA Oh, heavy ignorance! Thou praisest the worst best. But what praise couldst thou bestow on a deserving woman indeed, one that in the authority of her merit did justly put on the vouch of very malice itself?
|
|
IAGO She that was ever fair and never proud,
Had tongue at will and yet was never loud,
150 Never lacked gold and yet went never gay,
Fled from her wish and yet said “Now I may,”
She that being angered, her revenge being nigh,
Bade her wrong stay and her displeasure fly,
She that in wisdom never was so frail
She that could think and ne'er disclose her mind,
See suitors following and not look behind,
She was a wight, if ever such wights were—
|
IAGO She that was ever fair and never proud,
Had tongue at will and yet was never loud,
Never lacked gold and yet went never gay,
Fled from her wish and yet said “Now I may,”
She that being angered, her revenge being nigh,
Bade her wrong stay and her displeasure fly,
She that in wisdom never was so frail
She that could think and ne'er disclose her mind,
See suitors following and not look behind,
She was a wight, if ever such wights were—
|
|
DESDEMONA To do what?
|
DESDEMONA To do what?
|
|
IAGO 160 To suckle fools and chronicle small beer.
|
IAGO To suckle fools and chronicle small beer.
|
|
DESDEMONA Oh, most lame and impotent conclusion! Do not learn of him, Emilia, though he be thy husband. How say you, Cassio? Is he not a most profane and liberal counselor?
|
DESDEMONA Oh, most lame and impotent conclusion! Do not learn of him, Emilia, though he be thy husband. How say you, Cassio? Is he not a most profane and liberal counselor?
|
|
CASSIO He speaks home, madam. You may relish him more in the soldier than in the scholar.
|
CASSIO He speaks home, madam. You may relish him more in the soldier than in the scholar.
|
|
CASSIO takes DESDEMONA'S hand
|
CASSIO takes DESDEMONA'S hand
|
|
IAGO (aside) He takes her by the palm. Ay, well said, whisper! With as little a web as this will I ensnare as great a fly as Cassio. Ay, smile upon her, do, I will gyve thee in thine own courtship. You say true, 'Tis so, indeed.
|
IAGO (aside) He takes her by the palm. Ay, well said, whisper! With as little a web as this will I ensnare as great a fly as Cassio. Ay, smile upon her, do, I will gyve thee in thine own courtship. You say true, 'Tis so, indeed.
|
|
If such tricks as these strip you out of your lieutenantry, it had been better you had not kissed your three fingers so oft, which now again you are most apt to play the sir in. Very good, well kissed, and excellent courtesy! ’tis so, indeed. Yet again your fingers to your lips? Would they were clyster-pipes for your sake!—
|
If such tricks as these strip you out of your lieutenantry, it had been better you had not kissed your three fingers so oft, which now again you are most apt to play the sir in. Very good, well kissed, and excellent courtesy! ’tis so, indeed. Yet again your fingers to your lips? Would they were clyster-pipes for your sake!—
|
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Trumpet within
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Trumpet within
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165 The Moor! I know his trumpet.
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The Moor! I know his trumpet.
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CASSIO 'Tis truly so.
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CASSIO 'Tis truly so.
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DESDEMONA Let’s meet him and receive him.
|
DESDEMONA Let’s meet him and receive him.
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|
CASSIO Lo, where he comes!
|
CASSIO Lo, where he comes!
|
|
Enter OTHELLO and attendants
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Enter OTHELLO and attendants
|
|
OTHELLO Oh my fair warrior!
|
OTHELLO Oh my fair warrior!
|
|
DESDEMONA My dear Othello!
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DESDEMONA My dear Othello!
|
|
OTHELLO It gives me wonder great as my content
To see you here before me. Oh, my soul’s joy!
170 If after every tempest come such calms,
May the winds blow till they have wakened death,
And let the laboring bark climb hills of seas
Olympus-high, and duck again as low
As hell’s from heaven! If it were now to die,
175 'Twere now to be most happy, for I fear
My soul hath her content so absolute
That not another comfort like to this
Succeeds in unknown fate.
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OTHELLO It gives me wonder great as my content
To see you here before me. Oh, my soul’s joy!
If after every tempest come such calms,
May the winds blow till they have wakened death,
And let the laboring bark climb hills of seas
Olympus-high, and duck again as low
As hell’s from heaven! If it were now to die,
'Twere now to be most happy, for I fear
My soul hath her content so absolute
That not another comfort like to this
Succeeds in unknown fate.
|
|
DESDEMONA The heavens forbid
But that our loves and comforts should increase,
180 Even as our days do grow.
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DESDEMONA The heavens forbid
But that our loves and comforts should increase,
Even as our days do grow.
|
|
OTHELLO Amen to that, sweet powers!
I cannot speak enough of this content.
It stops me here, it is too much of joy.
And this, and this, the greatest discords be (kissing her)
That e'er our hearts shall make!
|
OTHELLO Amen to that, sweet powers!
I cannot speak enough of this content.
It stops me here, it is too much of joy.
And this, and this, the greatest discords be (kissing her)
That e'er our hearts shall make!
|
|
IAGO Oh, you are well tuned now,
But I’ll set down the pegs that make this music,
As honest as I am.
|
IAGO Oh, you are well tuned now,
But I’ll set down the pegs that make this music,
As honest as I am.
|
|
OTHELLO Come, let us to the castle.
News, friends! Our wars are done, the Turks are drowned.
How does my old acquaintance of this isle?—
190 Honey, you shall be well desired in Cyprus,
I have found great love amongst them. O my sweet,
I prattle out of fashion, and I dote
In mine own comforts.—I prithee, good Iago,
Go to the bay and disembark my coffers.
195 Bring thou the master to the citadel.
He is a good one, and his worthiness
Does challenge much respect.—Come, Desdemona,
Once more, well met at Cyprus.
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OTHELLO Come, let us to the castle.
News, friends! Our wars are done, the Turks are drowned.
How does my old acquaintance of this isle?—
Honey, you shall be well desired in Cyprus,
I have found great love amongst them. O my sweet,
I prattle out of fashion, and I dote
In mine own comforts.—I prithee, good Iago,
Go to the bay and disembark my coffers.
Bring thou the master to the citadel.
He is a good one, and his worthiness
Does challenge much respect.—Come, Desdemona,
Once more, well met at Cyprus.
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Exeunt OTHELLO , DESDEMONA , and attendants
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Exeunt OTHELLO , DESDEMONA , and attendants
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IAGO Do thou meet me presently at the harbor.—Come hither. If thou be’st valiant, as they say base men being in love have then a nobility in their natures more than is native to them, list me. The lieutenant tonight watches on the court of guard. First, I must tell thee this: Desdemona is directly in love with him.
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IAGO Do thou meet me presently at the harbor.—Come hither. If thou be’st valiant, as they say base men being in love have then a nobility in their natures more than is native to them, list me. The lieutenant tonight watches on the court of guard. First, I must tell thee this: Desdemona is directly in love with him.
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RODERIGO 200 With him? Why, ’tis not possible.
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RODERIGO With him? Why, ’tis not possible.
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IAGO Lay thy finger thus, and let thy soul be instructed. Mark me with what violence she first loved the Moor, but for bragging and telling her fantastical lies. To love him still for prating? Let not thy discreet heart think it. Her eye must be fed, and what delight shall she have to look on the devil? When the blood is made dull with the act of sport, there should be a game to inflame it and to give satiety a fresh appetite, loveliness in favor, sympathy in years, manners and beauties. All which the Moor is defective in. Now for want of these required conveniences, her delicate tenderness will find itself abused, begin to heave the gorge, disrelish and abhor the Moor. Very nature will instruct her in it and compel her to some second choice. Now sir, this granted—as it is a most pregnant and unforced position—who stands so eminent in the degree of this fortune as Cassio does? A knave very voluble, no further conscionable than in putting on the mere form of civil and humane seeming, for the better compassing of his salt and most hidden loose affection. Why, none, why, none! A slipper and subtle knave, a finder of occasions that has an eye, can stamp and counterfeit advantages, though true advantage never present itself. A devilish knave. Besides, the knave is handsome, young, and hath all those requisites in him that folly and green minds look after. A pestilent complete knave, and the woman hath found him already.
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IAGO Lay thy finger thus, and let thy soul be instructed. Mark me with what violence she first loved the Moor, but for bragging and telling her fantastical lies. To love him still for prating? Let not thy discreet heart think it. Her eye must be fed, and what delight shall she have to look on the devil? When the blood is made dull with the act of sport, there should be a game to inflame it and to give satiety a fresh appetite, loveliness in favor, sympathy in years, manners and beauties. All which the Moor is defective in. Now for want of these required conveniences, her delicate tenderness will find itself abused, begin to heave the gorge, disrelish and abhor the Moor. Very nature will instruct her in it and compel her to some second choice. Now sir, this granted—as it is a most pregnant and unforced position—who stands so eminent in the degree of this fortune as Cassio does? A knave very voluble, no further conscionable than in putting on the mere form of civil and humane seeming, for the better compassing of his salt and most hidden loose affection. Why, none, why, none! A slipper and subtle knave, a finder of occasions that has an eye, can stamp and counterfeit advantages, though true advantage never present itself. A devilish knave. Besides, the knave is handsome, young, and hath all those requisites in him that folly and green minds look after. A pestilent complete knave, and the woman hath found him already.
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RODERIGO I cannot believe that in her. She’s full of most blessed condition.
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RODERIGO I cannot believe that in her. She’s full of most blessed condition.
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IAGO Blessed fig’s-end! The wine she drinks is made of grapes. If she had been blessed, she would never have loved the Moor. Blessed pudding! Didst thou not see her paddle with the palm of his hand? Didst not mark that?
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IAGO Blessed fig’s-end! The wine she drinks is made of grapes. If she had been blessed, she would never have loved the Moor. Blessed pudding! Didst thou not see her paddle with the palm of his hand? Didst not mark that?
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RODERIGO Yes, that I did, but that was but courtesy.
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RODERIGO Yes, that I did, but that was but courtesy.
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IAGO |
IAGO |
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RODERIGO Well.
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RODERIGO Well.
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IAGO Sir, he’s rash and very sudden in choler, and haply may strike at you. Provoke him that he may. For even out of that will I cause these of Cyprus to mutiny, whose qualification shall come into no true taste again but by the displanting of Cassio. So shall you have a shorter journey to your desires by the means I shall then have to prefer them, and the impediment most profitably removed, without the which there were no expectation of our prosperity.
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IAGO Sir, he’s rash and very sudden in choler, and haply may strike at you. Provoke him that he may. For even out of that will I cause these of Cyprus to mutiny, whose qualification shall come into no true taste again but by the displanting of Cassio. So shall you have a shorter journey to your desires by the means I shall then have to prefer them, and the impediment most profitably removed, without the which there were no expectation of our prosperity.
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RODERIGO I will do this, if you can bring it to any opportunity.
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RODERIGO I will do this, if you can bring it to any opportunity.
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IAGO I warrant thee. Meet me by and by at the citadel. I must fetch his necessaries ashore. Farewell.
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IAGO I warrant thee. Meet me by and by at the citadel. I must fetch his necessaries ashore. Farewell.
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RODERIGO 210 Adieu.
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RODERIGO Adieu.
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Exit
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Exit
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IAGO That Cassio loves her, I do well believe ’t.
That she loves him, ’tis apt and of great credit.
The Moor, howbeit that I endure him not,
Is of a constant, loving, noble nature,
215 And I dare think he’ll prove to Desdemona
A most dear husband. Now, I do love her too,
Not out of absolute lust—though peradventure
I stand accountant for as great a sin—
But partly led to diet my revenge,
220 For that I do suspect the lusty Moor
Hath leaped into my seat. The thought whereof
Doth, like a poisonous mineral, gnaw my inwards,
And nothing can or shall content my soul
Till I am evened with him, wife for wife.
225 Or, failing so, yet that I put the Moor
At least into a jealousy so strong
That judgment cannot cure. Which thing to do,
If this poor trash of Venice, whom I trace
For his quick hunting, stand the putting on,
230 I’ll have our Michael Cassio on the hip,
Abuse him to the Moor in the right garb
(For I fear Cassio with my night-cape too)
Make the Moor thank me, love me, and reward me
For making him egregiously an ass
235 And practicing upon his peace and quiet
Even to madness. 'Tis here, but yet confused.
Knavery’s plain face is never seen till used.
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IAGO That Cassio loves her, I do well believe ’t.
That she loves him, ’tis apt and of great credit.
The Moor, howbeit that I endure him not,
Is of a constant, loving, noble nature,
And I dare think he’ll prove to Desdemona
A most dear husband. Now, I do love her too,
Not out of absolute lust—though peradventure
I stand accountant for as great a sin—
But partly led to diet my revenge,
For that I do suspect the lusty Moor
Hath leaped into my seat. The thought whereof
Doth, like a poisonous mineral, gnaw my inwards,
And nothing can or shall content my soul
Till I am evened with him, wife for wife.
Or, failing so, yet that I put the Moor
At least into a jealousy so strong
That judgment cannot cure. Which thing to do,
If this poor trash of Venice, whom I trace
For his quick hunting, stand the putting on,
I’ll have our Michael Cassio on the hip,
Abuse him to the Moor in the right garb
(For I fear Cassio with my night-cape too)
Make the Moor thank me, love me, and reward me
For making him egregiously an ass
And practicing upon his peace and quiet
Even to madness. 'Tis here, but yet confused.
Knavery’s plain face is never seen till used.
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Exit
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Exit
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