Othello Quiz Questions And Answers
Have you read the famous story about Othello? If yes, get ready for some Othello quiz questions and answers, and see how well you remember the plot and characters of this book. Othello is undoubtedly, one of William Shakespeare's best works. People have been fans of this remarkable book. There have been several cinematic adaptations of this book, and the audience has praised and loved all of them. If you've read this book and think you understood it well, here's your chance to test your knowledge. All the best!
- 1.
What is the difference between the light of Desdemona's heart and the light of the candle Othello is holding?
- A.
Once Othello puts out Desdemona's "light", it can never be reignited again, unlike that of the candle.
- B.
The candle's light will always light Othello's darkness, as Desdemona's "light" only brings evil to Othello's heart.
- C.
Desdemona's "light" was darkness, unlike the candle's.
- D.
The light of the candle was real, unlike that of Desdemona's.
Correct Answer
A. Once Othello puts out Desdemona's "light", it can never be reignited again, unlike that of the candle.Explanation
The correct answer suggests that the difference between the light of Desdemona's heart and the light of the candle Othello is holding is that once Othello extinguishes Desdemona's "light," it cannot be reignited again, whereas the light of the candle can be lit again. This implies that Desdemona's light symbolizes something permanent and irreparable, possibly representing her innocence, love, or life, which is lost forever once Othello takes it away. In contrast, the candle's light represents something temporary and replaceable, as it can be relit whenever needed.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Who said, "Keep up your bright swords, for the dew will rust them."?
- A.
Othello
- B.
Brabantio
- C.
Cassio
- D.
Iago
Correct Answer
A. OthelloExplanation
In this quote, the speaker is advising others to keep their swords ready because if they are left unused, they will gather rust. Since this quote is about swords and their maintenance, it is most likely that it was spoken by a military or warrior character. Among the given options, Othello is the most fitting character as he is a general in the Venetian army and would be familiar with the importance of keeping weapons in good condition.Rate this question:
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- 3.
"...an old black ram/Is tupping your white ewe." Who said this?
- A.
Othello
- B.
Iago
- C.
Roderigo
- D.
Cassio
Correct Answer
B. IagoExplanation
In Shakespeare's play Othello, Iago is the one who said this line. The quote refers to Othello, a black man, having a sexual relationship with Desdemona, a white woman. Iago uses this derogatory language to fuel Othello's jealousy and manipulate him into believing that Desdemona is being unfaithful. Iago's cunning and deceitful nature are evident in his ability to use such inflammatory language to sow discord and manipulate the emotions of those around him.Rate this question:
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- 4.
How did the Duke reply at FIRST when Brabantio claimed that Desdemona was "dead" to him?
- A.
The Duke did not believe him.
- B.
The Duke ignored Brabantio and welcomed Othello.
- C.
The Duke claimed that Brabantio may enforce whatever punishment he sees fit, including the "bloody book of law."
- D.
The Duke claimed that Brabantio is free to kill Desdemona for this act of betrayal.
Correct Answer
C. The Duke claimed that Brabantio may enforce whatever punishment he sees fit, including the "bloody book of law."Explanation
The Duke's reply suggests that he acknowledges Brabantio's claim and gives him the authority to decide the punishment for Desdemona's actions. The phrase "bloody book of law" implies that Brabantio can choose to take legal action against Desdemona if he wishes. This response indicates that the Duke is willing to respect Brabantio's grievances and allow him to exercise his rights as a father and a citizen.Rate this question:
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- 5.
What does the Duke say to try and make Brabantio feel better?
- A.
"It is the cause."
- B.
"Farewell! Othello's reputation is gone!"
- C.
"Your son-in-law is far more fair than black."
- D.
He does not say anything.
Correct Answer
C. "Your son-in-law is far more fair than black."Explanation
The Duke says "Your son-in-law is far more fair than black" to try and make Brabantio feel better. This statement implies that Othello's character and qualities outweigh any negative judgment based on his race. The Duke is reassuring Brabantio that Othello is a good man and worthy of his daughter's love and trust.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Who is Janus, and who mentions him?
- A.
Two-faced Roman god/Iago
- B.
Roman God of War/Othello
- C.
Greek God of Chastity/Desdemona
- D.
Greek God of Harvest/Emilia
Correct Answer
A. Two-faced Roman god/IagoExplanation
Janus is a Roman god known for having two faces, one looking forward and the other backward. He is often associated with transitions, beginnings, and endings. In the context of the question, Iago mentions Janus. Iago is a character in Shakespeare's play Othello, known for his deceitful and manipulative nature. He uses the metaphor of Janus to describe his two-faced behavior, highlighting his ability to present different personas to different people.Rate this question:
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- 7.
What pattern is embroidered on the handkerchief?
- A.
Strawberries
- B.
Cherries
- C.
Flowers
- D.
Tulips
Correct Answer
A. StrawberriesExplanation
The correct answer is strawberries because the question asks about the pattern embroidered on the handkerchief, and out of the given options, strawberries is the only pattern mentioned.Rate this question:
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- 8.
How were the Turks defeated?
- A.
In a storm
- B.
In war
- C.
By Othello's army in Cyrpus
- D.
By their own
Correct Answer
A. In a stormExplanation
The Turks were defeated in a storm. This suggests that the defeat was not a result of a military conflict or any strategic planning, but rather a natural occurrence that worked against the Turks. The storm could have caused damage to their ships or hindered their ability to fight effectively, leading to their defeat.Rate this question:
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- 9.
What kind of evidence does Othello ask Iago to give him?What did Iago do to give Othello the "proof"?
- A.
Ocular proof/handkerchief
- B.
Real evidence/handkerchief
- C.
Unfathomable proof/handkerchief
- D.
Actual evidence/handkerchief
Correct Answer
A. Ocular proof/handkerchiefExplanation
Othello asks Iago to provide him with "ocular proof," which means visual evidence that would confirm Desdemona's infidelity. Iago gives Othello a handkerchief as the "proof."Rate this question:
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- 10.
Which of the following was Othello NOT called throughout the play?
- A.
Horse
- B.
Ass
- C.
Serpent
- D.
All of these
Correct Answer
C. SerpentExplanation
Throughout the play Othello, the character is referred to as "Horse," "Ass," and "Serpent" at different points. However, the correct answer is "Serpent" because Othello is never called by this specific term in the play. This suggests that the other options are all names or insults that Othello is referred to, but "Serpent" is not one of them.Rate this question:
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- 11.
How old is Iago?
- A.
35
- B.
28
- C.
50
- D.
44
Correct Answer
B. 28Explanation
The given answer is 28. This implies that Iago is 28 years old.Rate this question:
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- 12.
What is a "beast with two backs"?
- A.
Two people having sex
- B.
A monster
- C.
Twins
- D.
Mutant Horse
Correct Answer
A. Two people having sexExplanation
A "beast with two backs" is a metaphorical phrase coined by William Shakespeare in his play Othello. It refers to two people engaging in sexual intercourse. The phrase suggests the physicality and intensity of the act, comparing it to a beast with its two backs arched in motion.Rate this question:
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- 13.
What is Brabantio's position in Venice?
- A.
Senator
- B.
Duke
- C.
Corporal
- D.
Lieutenant
Correct Answer
A. SenatorExplanation
Brabantio's position in Venice is a senator.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Where does Iago tell Roderigo that Desdemona and Othello were going after they left Cyprus?
- A.
Florence
- B.
Venice
- C.
Mauritania
- D.
Morocco
Correct Answer
C. MauritaniaExplanation
Iago tells Roderigo that Desdemona and Othello were going to Mauritania after they left Cyprus.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Who made the handkerchief in the first place?
- A.
A sibyl/female prophet
- B.
Othello's mother
- C.
Othello
- D.
Desdemona
Correct Answer
A. A sibyl/female propHetExplanation
In the play "Othello" by William Shakespeare, it is mentioned that the handkerchief was originally made by a sibyl or a female prophet. This detail is significant because the handkerchief holds great symbolic value throughout the play. It was given to Othello by his mother, who received it from an Egyptian charmer. The handkerchief represents Othello and Desdemona's love and faithfulness, and its loss becomes a catalyst for jealousy and tragedy in the play.Rate this question:
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- 16.
How does Othello see the handkerchief that Cassio "got from Desdemona"?
- A.
Bianca gives it back to him just as Othello was looking.
- B.
Cassio pulls it out of his pocket.
- C.
Othello finds the handkerchief on his desk, along with a note signed by Cassio.
- D.
Othello saw Desdemona give it to Cassio.
Correct Answer
A. Bianca gives it back to him just as Othello was looking.Explanation
Bianca gives the handkerchief back to Othello just as he was looking. This suggests that Othello sees the handkerchief being returned to him by Bianca at the exact moment he was observing.Rate this question:
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- 17.
What rank does Iago begrudgingly hold?
- A.
General
- B.
Ensign
- C.
Lieutenant
- D.
Sir
Correct Answer
B. EnsignExplanation
Iago begrudgingly holds the rank of Ensign.Rate this question:
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- 18.
What does Othello call Desdemona (negatively)?
- A.
Chuck
- B.
Darling
- C.
Whore/Strumpet
- D.
Mistress
Correct Answer
C. Whore/StrumpetExplanation
Othello refers to Desdemona as a "whore/strumpet" in a negative manner. This derogatory term suggests that Othello sees Desdemona as promiscuous or unfaithful. It reflects his growing jealousy and suspicion towards her, which ultimately leads to tragic consequences in the play.Rate this question:
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- 19.
What is Emilia's opinion of men?
- A.
They are the most amazing creatures that ever graced this earth.
- B.
They are the reason why women fall, and when they get tired of women, they just vomit them out.
- C.
They are nothing but slaves to manipulate.
- D.
They are unworthy of being called human beings.
Correct Answer
B. They are the reason why women fall, and when they get tired of women, they just vomit them out.Explanation
Emilia's opinion of men is that they are the reason why women fall, and when they get tired of women, they just vomit them out.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Where did Desdemona first hear the Willow song?
- A.
Othello
- B.
The Clown
- C.
Barbary
- D.
Emilia
Correct Answer
C. BarbaryExplanation
Desdemona first heard the Willow song in Barbary.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Who is Barbary?
- A.
Desdemona's mother's maid
- B.
Desdemona's half-sister
- C.
Desdemona's cousin
- D.
Desdemona's twin sister
Correct Answer
A. Desdemona's mother's maidExplanation
Barbary is Desdemona's mother's maid. This means that she is not directly related to Desdemona as a sister or cousin, but rather serves as a maid to Desdemona's mother.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Who is the "captain's captain"?
- A.
Brabantio
- B.
Iago
- C.
Othello
- D.
Desdemona
Correct Answer
D. DesdemonaExplanation
Desdemona is referred to as the "captain's captain" because she is the wife of Othello, who is the captain of the Venetian army. This term suggests that Desdemona holds a position of high respect and influence within the military community, as she is seen as the leader's partner. Desdemona's relationship with Othello and her role in his life make her the most fitting choice for the "captain's captain" title.Rate this question:
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- 23.
How does Othello kill Desdemona?
- A.
Smothering
- B.
Stabbing
- C.
Hanging
- D.
Shooting
Correct Answer
A. SmotheringExplanation
In the play Othello by William Shakespeare, Othello kills Desdemona by smothering her. This method of killing involves Othello suffocating Desdemona by covering her mouth and nose, depriving her of oxygen. This act of smothering is a significant moment in the play, symbolizing Othello's intense jealousy and rage towards Desdemona, driven by the manipulations of Iago. The smothering scene is a tragic climax in the play, highlighting the destructive consequences of Othello's unchecked emotions.Rate this question:
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- 24.
While Cassio was drunk, whom did he wound?
- A.
Roderigo
- B.
Montano
- C.
Othello
- D.
Iago
Correct Answer
B. MontanoExplanation
Cassio, while drunk, wounded Montano.Rate this question:
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- 25.
The night he was stabbed, with whom did Cassio dine?
- A.
Iago
- B.
Othello
- C.
Bianca
- D.
Roderigo
Correct Answer
C. BiancaExplanation
Cassio dined with Bianca on the night he was stabbed. This information is derived from Shakespeare's play "Othello," where Bianca is portrayed as Cassio's lover. The fact that Cassio dined with Bianca is significant because it plays a crucial role in Iago's plot to manipulate Othello and fuel his jealousy. By framing Cassio's innocent interaction with Bianca as evidence of an affair, Iago successfully manipulates Othello's emotions and ultimately leads to tragic consequences.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Who is the first character to refer to Othello by his actual name?
- A.
The Duke
- B.
Lodovico
- C.
Gratiano
- D.
Iago
Correct Answer
A. The DukeExplanation
The Duke is the first character to refer to Othello by his actual name. This is evident in Act I, Scene III, when the Duke addresses Othello as "Valiant Othello." The other characters, such as Lodovico, Gratiano, and Iago, refer to Othello by his title or as "the Moor" throughout the play. However, it is the Duke who first acknowledges Othello by his name.Rate this question:
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- 27.
In Lodovico's letter, who is supposed to replace Othello as the governor of Cyprus?
- A.
Cassio
- B.
Iago
- C.
Lodovico
- D.
Gratiano
Correct Answer
A. CassioExplanation
In Lodovico's letter, it is mentioned that Cassio is supposed to replace Othello as the governor of Cyprus. This implies that Cassio has been chosen as the successor to Othello in this position.Rate this question:
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- 28.
What does Desdemona ask Emilia to do on the night of her death?
- A.
Beg Othello for mercy for whatever she has committed.
- B.
Sing the Willow song
- C.
Place her wedding sheets on her bed.
- D.
Pray with her
Correct Answer
C. Place her wedding sheets on her bed.Explanation
On the night of her death, Desdemona asks Emilia to place her wedding sheets on her bed. This is significant because it symbolizes her innocence and loyalty to her marriage. Desdemona believes that by doing this, it will prove her faithfulness to Othello and counter the false accusations made against her. The wedding sheets represent the purity of their love and Desdemona's desire to reconcile with Othello before her tragic end.Rate this question:
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- 29.
"Put money in thy purse," said who?
- A.
Iago
- B.
Othello
- C.
Roderigo
- D.
Emilia
Correct Answer
A. IagoExplanation
In Shakespeare's play "Othello," the character Iago says the line "Put money in thy purse." This statement is part of Iago's manipulative and deceitful nature, as he urges another character to focus on personal gain and greed. Iago's cunning and scheming behavior throughout the play contribute to the tragic events that unfold.Rate this question:
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- 30.
What century was Othello written in?
- A.
17th
- B.
16th
- C.
18th
- D.
14th
Correct Answer
A. 17thExplanation
Othello was written in the 17th century. This can be inferred from the fact that the play was first performed in 1604, during the Jacobean era, which was part of the 17th century. Additionally, the language, themes, and style of the play align with other works from that time period, further supporting the conclusion that Othello was written in the 17th century.Rate this question:
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- 31.
What year was Shakespeare born/died?
- A.
April 1556-April23, 1616
- B.
April 1564-April 23, 1616
- C.
April 1574-April 23, 2016 :P
- D.
April 1574; 1544-April 23, 1634
Correct Answer
B. April 1564-April 23, 1616Explanation
Shakespeare was born in April 1564 and died on April 23, 1616. This is the correct answer because it provides the accurate year of his birth and death.Rate this question:
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- 32.
How did Iago rouse Brabantio's anger?
- A.
He threw a torch at his house.
- B.
He said that Desdemona was unworthy of Roderigo.
- C.
He threw a shoe at his window and called Brabantio's cat fat.
- D.
He used crude animal imagery of Desdemona and Othello's bonding.
Correct Answer
D. He used crude animal imagery of Desdemona and Othello's bonding.Explanation
Iago roused Brabantio's anger by using crude animal imagery to describe the relationship between Desdemona and Othello. This likely provoked Brabantio's anger as it portrayed his daughter's relationship in a demeaning and disrespectful manner, suggesting that it was purely based on animalistic instincts rather than genuine love and affection.Rate this question:
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- 33.
What type of play is Othello?
- A.
Tragedy
- B.
Comedy
- C.
Satirical
- D.
Farce
Correct Answer
A. TragedyExplanation
Othello is classified as a tragedy because it follows the traditional structure and themes of a tragic play. The play explores the downfall of the protagonist, Othello, who is a noble and respected figure. It delves into themes of jealousy, manipulation, and betrayal, ultimately leading to the tragic ending where Othello takes his own life. The play also includes elements of fate and the consequences of unchecked emotions, which are common in tragic works. Overall, the heavy tone and serious subject matter of Othello align with the characteristics of a tragedy.Rate this question:
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- 34.
What did Desdemona think was troubling Othello?
- A.
Political/State matters
- B.
Life
- C.
Wars
- D.
Turks
Correct Answer
A. Political/State mattersExplanation
Desdemona believed that Othello was troubled by political and state matters. This suggests that she perceived him as someone deeply invested in the affairs of the government and the state, possibly indicating that he was preoccupied with his responsibilities and the challenges of his position. This understanding of Othello's concerns aligns with the context of the play, where political and state matters play a significant role in the plot and characters' motivations.Rate this question:
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- 35.
When Brabantio was speaking, what did he make out Desdemona to be?
- A.
Property
- B.
Loving Daughter
- C.
Slave
- D.
Animal
Correct Answer
A. PropertyExplanation
Brabantio, when speaking about Desdemona, made her out to be his property. This suggests that he sees her as an object that he owns and controls, rather than as an individual with her own thoughts, feelings, and agency. This attitude reflects the patriarchal society in which the play is set, where women were often treated as possessions of their male relatives or husbands.Rate this question:
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- 36.
Othello told Desdemona stories of war and his adventures with the ______
- A.
Cyclops
- B.
Turks
- C.
Anthropophagus
- D.
Beasts
Correct Answer
C. AnthropopHagusExplanation
Othello told Desdemona stories of war and his adventures with the anthropophagus. The term "anthropophagus" refers to a cannibalistic creature or a person who eats human flesh. This suggests that Othello had encountered dangerous and gruesome beings during his military campaigns. By sharing these stories with Desdemona, Othello may have been trying to impress her with his bravery and experiences in battle.Rate this question:
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- 37.
Which words best describe Roderigo?
- A.
Smart, intelligent
- B.
Gullible, dull
- C.
Mental, insane
- D.
Loving, protective
Correct Answer
B. Gullible, dullExplanation
Roderigo is described as gullible and dull because throughout the play "Othello," he is easily manipulated by Iago and falls for his lies and schemes. Roderigo's actions and decisions demonstrate a lack of intelligence and critical thinking. He blindly follows Iago's instructions and is easily swayed by his deceitful tactics. Additionally, Roderigo lacks depth and complexity in his character, often appearing naive and easily fooled. These qualities make him vulnerable and easily taken advantage of by others.Rate this question:
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- 38.
What does Roderigo call Iago when he dies, and what does Othello call himself when he commits suicide?
- A.
Treacherous dog/jealous dog
- B.
Tricky dog/betrayed dog
- C.
Devious dog/loving dog
- D.
Inhuman dog/circumsisèd dog
Correct Answer
D. Inhuman dog/circumsisèd dogExplanation
In the play "Othello" by William Shakespeare, Roderigo refers to Iago as an "inhuman dog" when he dies. This description highlights Roderigo's anger and betrayal towards Iago. On the other hand, Othello refers to himself as a "circumsisèd dog" when he commits suicide. This phrase reflects Othello's feelings of shame and self-condemnation for his actions, particularly for being deceived by Iago and causing harm to those he loved.Rate this question:
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