Othello · Chapter
Scene II explained
A herald proclaims Othello's orders for a public celebration in Cyprus, marking both the destruction of the Turkish fleet and Othello's recent marriage, with feasting and revelry permitted until eleven o'clock.
What happens
A herald proclaims Othello's orders for a public celebration in Cyprus, marking both the destruction of the Turkish fleet and Othello's recent marriage, with feasting and revelry permitted until eleven o'clock.
Characters to notice
- Othello
The noble and valiant general whose pleasure is proclaimed for celebration.
Key passages
“It is Othello’s pleasure, our noble and valiant general, that, upon certain tidings now arrived, importing the mere perdition of the Turkish fleet, every man put himself into triumph; some to dance, some to make bonfires, each man to what sport and revels his addiction leads him: for, besides these beneficial news, it is the celebration of his nuptial.”
Our brave general Othello commands that, because news has come of the total destruction of the Turkish fleet, everyone should celebrate with dancing, bonfires, and whatever revelry they desire, as this also marks his wedding day.
The herald announces a dual celebration for military victory and marriage.