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No Fear Translations

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Enter OTHELLO , DESDEMONA , CASSIO , and attendants
Enter OTHELLO , DESDEMONA , CASSIO , and attendants

OTHELLO

Good Michael, look you to the guard tonight.
Let’s teach ourselves that honorable stop
Not to outsport discretion.

OTHELLO

Good Michael, look you to the guard tonight.
Let’s teach ourselves that honorable stop
Not to outsport discretion.

CASSIO

Iago hath direction what to do,
5 But notwithstanding with my personal eye
Will I look to ’t.

CASSIO

Iago hath direction what to do,
But notwithstanding with my personal eye
Will I look to ’t.

OTHELLO

Iago is most honest.
Michael, good night. Tomorrow with your earliest
Let me have speech with you.—
Come, my dear love,
10 The purchase made, the fruits are to ensue:
That profit’s yet to come ’tween me and you.
Good night.

OTHELLO

Iago is most honest.
Michael, good night. Tomorrow with your earliest
Let me have speech with you.—
Come, my dear love,
The purchase made, the fruits are to ensue:
That profit’s yet to come ’tween me and you.
Good night.
Exeunt OTHELLO , DESDEMONA , and attendants
Exeunt OTHELLO , DESDEMONA , and attendants
Enter IAGO
Enter IAGO

CASSIO

Welcome, Iago. We must to the watch.

CASSIO

Welcome, Iago. We must to the watch.

IAGO

Not this hour, lieutenant, ’tis not yet ten o' the clock. Our general cast us thus early for the love of his Desdemona—who let us not therefore blame. He hath not yet made wanton the night with her, and she is sport for Jove.

IAGO

Not this hour, lieutenant, ’tis not yet ten o' the clock. Our general cast us thus early for the love of his Desdemona—who let us not therefore blame. He hath not yet made wanton the night with her, and she is sport for Jove.

CASSIO

15 She’s a most exquisite lady.

CASSIO

She’s a most exquisite lady.

IAGO

And, I’ll warrant her, full of game.

IAGO

And, I’ll warrant her, full of game.

CASSIO

Indeed she’s a most fresh and delicate creature.

CASSIO

Indeed she’s a most fresh and delicate creature.

IAGO

What an eye she has! Methinks it sounds a parley to provocation.

IAGO

What an eye she has! Methinks it sounds a parley to provocation.

CASSIO

An inviting eye, and yet methinks right modest.

CASSIO

An inviting eye, and yet methinks right modest.

IAGO

20 And when she speaks, is it not an alarum to love?

IAGO

And when she speaks, is it not an alarum to love?

CASSIO

She is indeed perfection.

CASSIO

She is indeed perfection.

IAGO

Well, happiness to their sheets! Come, lieutenant, I have a stoup of wine, and here without are a brace of Cyprus gallants that would fain have a measure to the health of black Othello.

IAGO

Well, happiness to their sheets! Come, lieutenant, I have a stoup of wine, and here without are a brace of Cyprus gallants that would fain have a measure to the health of black Othello.

CASSIO

Not tonight, good Iago. I have very poor and unhappy brains for drinking. I could well wish courtesy would invent some other custom of entertainment.

CASSIO

Not tonight, good Iago. I have very poor and unhappy brains for drinking. I could well wish courtesy would invent some other custom of entertainment.

IAGO

Oh, they are our friends. But one cup. I’ll drink for you.

IAGO

Oh, they are our friends. But one cup. I’ll drink for you.

CASSIO

I have drunk but one cup tonight, and that was craftily qualified too, and behold what innovation it makes here. I am unfortunate in the infirmity, and dare not task my weakness with any more.

CASSIO

I have drunk but one cup tonight, and that was craftily qualified too, and behold what innovation it makes here. I am unfortunate in the infirmity, and dare not task my weakness with any more.

IAGO

What, man, ’tis a night of revels! The gallants desire it.

IAGO

What, man, ’tis a night of revels! The gallants desire it.

CASSIO

Where are they?

CASSIO

Where are they?

IAGO

Here at the door. I pray you call them in.

IAGO

Here at the door. I pray you call them in.

CASSIO

I’ll do ’t, but it dislikes me.

CASSIO

I’ll do ’t, but it dislikes me.
Exit
Exit

IAGO

30 If I can fasten but one cup upon him,
With that which he hath drunk tonight already,
He’ll be as full of quarrel and offense
As my young mistress' dog. Now my sick fool Roderigo,
Whom love hath turned almost the wrong side out,
35 To Desdemona hath tonight caroused
Potations pottle-deep, and he’s to watch.
Three lads of Cyprus, noble swelling spirits
(That hold their honors in a wary distance,
The very elements of this warlike isle)
40 Have I tonight flustered with flowing cups,
And they watch too. Now ’mongst this flock of drunkards
Am I to put our Cassio in some action
That may offend the isle.
But here they come.
If consequence do but approve my dream
45 My boat sails freely, both with wind and stream.

IAGO

If I can fasten but one cup upon him,
With that which he hath drunk tonight already,
He’ll be as full of quarrel and offense
As my young mistress' dog. Now my sick fool Roderigo,
Whom love hath turned almost the wrong side out,
To Desdemona hath tonight caroused
Potations pottle-deep, and he’s to watch.
Three lads of Cyprus, noble swelling spirits
(That hold their honors in a wary distance,
The very elements of this warlike isle)
Have I tonight flustered with flowing cups,
And they watch too. Now ’mongst this flock of drunkards
Am I to put our Cassio in some action
That may offend the isle.
But here they come.
If consequence do but approve my dream
My boat sails freely, both with wind and stream.
Enter CASSIO , MONTANO and gentlemen
Enter CASSIO , MONTANO and gentlemen

CASSIO

'Fore heaven, they have given me a rouse already.

CASSIO

'Fore heaven, they have given me a rouse already.

MONTANO

Good faith, a little one, not past a pint, As I am a soldier.

MONTANO

Good faith, a little one, not past a pint, As I am a soldier.

IAGO

Some wine, ho!
(sings)
 And let me the cannikin clink, clink,
 And let me the cannikin clink.
 A soldier’s a man,
 A life’s but a span,
 Why then let a soldier drink.
 Some wine, boys!

IAGO

Some wine, ho!
(sings)
 And let me the cannikin clink, clink,
 And let me the cannikin clink.
 A soldier’s a man,
 A life’s but a span,
 Why then let a soldier drink.
 Some wine, boys!

CASSIO

55 Fore heaven, an excellent song.

CASSIO

Fore heaven, an excellent song.

IAGO

I learned it in England where indeed they are most potent in potting. Your Dane, your German, and your swag-bellied Hollander—Drink, ho!—are nothing to your English.

IAGO

I learned it in England where indeed they are most potent in potting. Your Dane, your German, and your swag-bellied Hollander—Drink, ho!—are nothing to your English.

CASSIO

Is your Englishman so expert in his drinking?

CASSIO

Is your Englishman so expert in his drinking?

IAGO

Why, he drinks you with facility your Dane dead drunk; he sweats not to overthrow your Almain. He gives your Hollander a vomit ere the next pottle can be filled.

IAGO

Why, he drinks you with facility your Dane dead drunk; he sweats not to overthrow your Almain. He gives your Hollander a vomit ere the next pottle can be filled.

CASSIO

To the health of our general!

CASSIO

To the health of our general!

MONTANO

I am for it, lieutenant, and I’ll do you justice.

MONTANO

I am for it, lieutenant, and I’ll do you justice.

IAGO

Oh, sweet England!
(sings)
King Stephen was a worthy peer,
His breeches cost him but a crown,
He held them sixpence all too dear,
With that he called the tailor lown.
He was a wight of high renown,
And thou art but of low degree,
'Tis pride that pulls the country down,
Then take thine auld cloak about thee.
Some wine, ho!

IAGO

Oh, sweet England!
(sings)
King Stephen was a worthy peer,
His breeches cost him but a crown,
He held them sixpence all too dear,
With that he called the tailor lown.
He was a wight of high renown,
And thou art but of low degree,
'Tis pride that pulls the country down,
Then take thine auld cloak about thee.
Some wine, ho!

CASSIO

Why, this is a more exquisite song than the other.

CASSIO

Why, this is a more exquisite song than the other.

IAGO

Will you hear ’t again?

IAGO

Will you hear ’t again?

CASSIO

No, for I hold him to be unworthy of his place that does those things. Well, heaven’s above all, and there be souls must be saved, and there be souls must not be saved.

CASSIO

No, for I hold him to be unworthy of his place that does those things. Well, heaven’s above all, and there be souls must be saved, and there be souls must not be saved.

IAGO

75 It’s true, good lieutenant.

IAGO

It’s true, good lieutenant.

CASSIO

For mine own part, no offence to the general nor any man of quality, I hope to be saved.

CASSIO

For mine own part, no offence to the general nor any man of quality, I hope to be saved.

IAGO

And so do I too, lieutenant.

IAGO

And so do I too, lieutenant.

CASSIO

Ay, but (by your leave) not before me. The lieutenant is to be saved before the ancient. Let’s have no more of this, let’s to our affairs.—Forgive us our sins!—Gentlemen, let’s look to our business. Do not think, gentlemen, I am drunk. This is my ancient, this is my right hand, and this is my left. I am not drunk now. I can stand well enough, and I speak well enough.

CASSIO

Ay, but (by your leave) not before me. The lieutenant is to be saved before the ancient. Let’s have no more of this, let’s to our affairs.—Forgive us our sins!—Gentlemen, let’s look to our business. Do not think, gentlemen, I am drunk. This is my ancient, this is my right hand, and this is my left. I am not drunk now. I can stand well enough, and I speak well enough.

ALL

Excellent well!

ALL

Excellent well!

CASSIO

Why, very well then. You must not think then that I am drunk.

CASSIO

Why, very well then. You must not think then that I am drunk.
Exit
Exit

MONTANO

To th' platform, masters. Come, let’s set the watch.

MONTANO

To th' platform, masters. Come, let’s set the watch.
Exit GENTLEMEN
Exit GENTLEMEN

IAGO

You see this fellow that is gone before,
He is a soldier fit to stand by Caesar
And give direction. And do but see his vice,
85 'Tis to his virtue a just equinox,
The one as long as th' other. 'Tis pity of him.
I fear the trust Othello puts him in
On some odd time of his infirmity
Will shake this island.

IAGO

You see this fellow that is gone before,
He is a soldier fit to stand by Caesar
And give direction. And do but see his vice,
'Tis to his virtue a just equinox,
The one as long as th' other. 'Tis pity of him.
I fear the trust Othello puts him in
On some odd time of his infirmity
Will shake this island.

MONTANO

But is he often thus?

MONTANO

But is he often thus?

IAGO

90 'Tis evermore the prologue to his sleep.
He’ll watch the horologe a double set
If drink rock not his cradle.

IAGO

'Tis evermore the prologue to his sleep.
He’ll watch the horologe a double set
If drink rock not his cradle.

MONTANO

It were well
The general were put in mind of it.
Perhaps he sees it not, or his good nature
95 Prizes the virtue that appears in Cassio
And looks not on his evils. Is not this true?

MONTANO

It were well
The general were put in mind of it.
Perhaps he sees it not, or his good nature
Prizes the virtue that appears in Cassio
And looks not on his evils. Is not this true?
Enter RODERIGO
Enter RODERIGO

IAGO

(aside) How now, Roderigo?
I pray you, after the lieutenant, go!

IAGO

(aside) How now, Roderigo?
I pray you, after the lieutenant, go!
Exit RODERIGO
Exit RODERIGO

MONTANO

And ’tis great pity that the noble Moor
100 Should hazard such a place as his own second
With one of an ingraft infirmity.
It were an honest action to say
So to the Moor.

MONTANO

And ’tis great pity that the noble Moor
Should hazard such a place as his own second
With one of an ingraft infirmity.
It were an honest action to say
So to the Moor.

IAGO

Not I, for this fair island.
I do love Cassio well, and would do much
105 To cure him of this evil—

IAGO

Not I, for this fair island.
I do love Cassio well, and would do much
To cure him of this evil—
Cry within “Help! help!”
Cry within “Help! help!”

IAGO

But, hark! What noise?

IAGO

But, hark! What noise?
Enter CASSIO , pursuing RODERIGO
Enter CASSIO , pursuing RODERIGO

CASSIO

Zounds! You rogue! You rascal!

CASSIO

Zounds! You rogue! You rascal!

MONTANO

What’s the matter, lieutenant?

MONTANO

What’s the matter, lieutenant?

CASSIO

A knave teach me my duty?
110 I’ll beat the knave into a twiggen bottle.

CASSIO

A knave teach me my duty?
I’ll beat the knave into a twiggen bottle.

RODERIGO

Beat me?

RODERIGO

Beat me?

CASSIO

Dost thou prate, rogue? (strikes him)

CASSIO

Dost thou prate, rogue? (strikes him)

MONTANO

Nay, good lieutenant! I pray you, sir, hold your hand. (stays him)

MONTANO

Nay, good lieutenant! I pray you, sir, hold your hand. (stays him)

CASSIO

Let me go, sir, or I’ll knock you o'er the mazzard.

CASSIO

Let me go, sir, or I’ll knock you o'er the mazzard.

MONTANO

115 Come, come, you’re drunk.

MONTANO

Come, come, you’re drunk.

CASSIO

Drunk?

CASSIO

Drunk?
They fight
They fight

IAGO

(aside to RODERIGO)
Away, I say, go out, and cry a mutiny.—

IAGO

(aside to RODERIGO)
Away, I say, go out, and cry a mutiny.—
Exit RODERIGO
Exit RODERIGO
Nay, good lieutenant! Alas, gentlemen—
Help, ho!— Lieutenant—sir, Montano—
Help, masters!—Here’s a goodly watch indeed!
Nay, good lieutenant! Alas, gentlemen—
Help, ho!— Lieutenant—sir, Montano—
Help, masters!—Here’s a goodly watch indeed!
Bell rings
Bell rings
Who’s that which rings the bell?—Diablo, ho!
The town will rise. Fie, Fie, lieutenant,
You’ll be ashamed for ever.
Who’s that which rings the bell?—Diablo, ho!
The town will rise. Fie, Fie, lieutenant,
You’ll be ashamed for ever.
Enter OTHELLO and attendants
Enter OTHELLO and attendants

OTHELLO

125 What is the matter here?

OTHELLO

What is the matter here?

MONTANO

I bleed still,
I am hurt to the death. He dies!

MONTANO

I bleed still,
I am hurt to the death. He dies!

OTHELLO

Hold, for your lives!

OTHELLO

Hold, for your lives!

IAGO

Hold, ho! Lieutenant—sir, Montano—gentlemen,
130 Have you forgot all place of sense and duty?
Hold! The general speaks to you. Hold, for shame!

IAGO

Hold, ho! Lieutenant—sir, Montano—gentlemen,
Have you forgot all place of sense and duty?
Hold! The general speaks to you. Hold, for shame!

OTHELLO

Why, how now, ho! From whence ariseth this?
Are we turned Turks? And to ourselves do that
Which heaven hath forbid the Ottomites?
135 For Christian shame, put by this barbarous brawl.
He that stirs next to carve for his own rage
Holds his soul light, he dies upon his motion.
Silence that dreadful bell, it frights the isle
From her propriety. What is the matter, masters?—
140 Honest Iago, that looks dead with grieving,
Speak, who began this? On thy love, I charge thee.

OTHELLO

Why, how now, ho! From whence ariseth this?
Are we turned Turks? And to ourselves do that
Which heaven hath forbid the Ottomites?
For Christian shame, put by this barbarous brawl.
He that stirs next to carve for his own rage
Holds his soul light, he dies upon his motion.
Silence that dreadful bell, it frights the isle
From her propriety. What is the matter, masters?—
Honest Iago, that looks dead with grieving,
Speak, who began this? On thy love, I charge thee.

IAGO

I do not know. Friends all but now, even now,
In quarter, and in terms like bride and groom
Divesting them for bed. And then, but now,
145 As if some planet had unwitted men,

IAGO

I do not know. Friends all but now, even now,
In quarter, and in terms like bride and groom
Divesting them for bed. And then, but now,
As if some planet had unwitted men,
Swords out, and tilting one at other’s breasts
In opposition bloody. I cannot speak
Any beginning to this peevish odds,
And would in action glorious I had lost
150 Those legs that brought me to a part of it.
Swords out, and tilting one at other’s breasts
In opposition bloody. I cannot speak
Any beginning to this peevish odds,
And would in action glorious I had lost
Those legs that brought me to a part of it.

OTHELLO

How comes it, Michael, you are thus forgot?

OTHELLO

How comes it, Michael, you are thus forgot?

CASSIO

I pray you pardon me, I cannot speak.

CASSIO

I pray you pardon me, I cannot speak.

OTHELLO

Worthy Montano, you were wont be civil.
The gravity and stillness of your youth
155 The world hath noted, and your name is great
In mouths of wisest censure. What’s the matter
That you unlace your reputation thus
And spend your rich opinion for the name
Of a night-brawler? Give me answer to it.

OTHELLO

Worthy Montano, you were wont be civil.
The gravity and stillness of your youth
The world hath noted, and your name is great
In mouths of wisest censure. What’s the matter
That you unlace your reputation thus
And spend your rich opinion for the name
Of a night-brawler? Give me answer to it.

MONTANO

160 Worthy Othello, I am hurt to danger.
Your officer Iago can inform you,
While I spare speech, which something now offends me,
Of all that I do know. Nor know I aught
By me that’s said or done amiss this night,
165 Unless self-charity be sometimes a vice,
And to defend ourselves it be a sin
When violence assails us.

MONTANO

Worthy Othello, I am hurt to danger.
Your officer Iago can inform you,
While I spare speech, which something now offends me,
Of all that I do know. Nor know I aught
By me that’s said or done amiss this night,
Unless self-charity be sometimes a vice,
And to defend ourselves it be a sin
When violence assails us.

OTHELLO

Now, by heaven,
My blood begins my safer guides to rule,
And passion, having my best judgment collied,
170 Assays to lead the way. If I once stir,

OTHELLO

Now, by heaven,
My blood begins my safer guides to rule,
And passion, having my best judgment collied,
Assays to lead the way. If I once stir,
Or do but lift this arm, the best of you
Shall sink in my rebuke. Give me to know
How this foul rout began, who set it on,
And he that is approved in this offence,
175 Though he had twinned with me, both at a birth,
Shall lose me. What, in a town of war
Yet wild, the people’s hearts brimful of fear,
To manage private and domestic quarrel?
In night, and on the court and guard of safety?
180 'Tis monstrous. Iago, who began ’t?
Or do but lift this arm, the best of you
Shall sink in my rebuke. Give me to know
How this foul rout began, who set it on,
And he that is approved in this offence,
Though he had twinned with me, both at a birth,
Shall lose me. What, in a town of war
Yet wild, the people’s hearts brimful of fear,
To manage private and domestic quarrel?
In night, and on the court and guard of safety?
'Tis monstrous. Iago, who began ’t?

MONTANO

If partially affined or leagued in office
Thou dost deliver more or less than truth
Thou art no soldier.

MONTANO

If partially affined or leagued in office
Thou dost deliver more or less than truth
Thou art no soldier.

IAGO

Touch me not so near.
I had rather have this tongue cut from my mouth
185 Than it should do offence to Michael Cassio.
Yet I persuade myself to speak the truth
Shall nothing wrong him. This it is, general:
Montano and myself being in speech,
There comes a fellow crying out for help
190 And Cassio following him with determined sword
To execute upon him. Sir, this gentleman
Steps in to Cassio and entreats his pause,
Myself the crying fellow did pursue,
Lest by his clamor—as it so fell out—
195 The town might fall in fright. He, swift of foot,
Outran my purpose, and I returned then rather
For that I heard the clink and fall of swords
And Cassio high in oath, which till tonight
I ne'er might say before. When I came back—
200 For this was brief— I found them close together
At blow and thrust, even as again they were
When you yourself did part them.
More of this matter cannot I report.

IAGO

Touch me not so near.
I had rather have this tongue cut from my mouth
Than it should do offence to Michael Cassio.
Yet I persuade myself to speak the truth
Shall nothing wrong him. This it is, general:
Montano and myself being in speech,
There comes a fellow crying out for help
And Cassio following him with determined sword
To execute upon him. Sir, this gentleman
Steps in to Cassio and entreats his pause,
Myself the crying fellow did pursue,
Lest by his clamor—as it so fell out—
The town might fall in fright. He, swift of foot,
Outran my purpose, and I returned then rather
For that I heard the clink and fall of swords
And Cassio high in oath, which till tonight
I ne'er might say before. When I came back—
For this was brief— I found them close together
At blow and thrust, even as again they were
When you yourself did part them.
More of this matter cannot I report.
But men are men, the best sometimes forget.
205 Though Cassio did some little wrong to him,
As men in rage strike those that wish them best,
Yet surely Cassio, I believe, received
From him that fled some strange indignity
Which patience could not pass.
But men are men, the best sometimes forget.
Though Cassio did some little wrong to him,
As men in rage strike those that wish them best,
Yet surely Cassio, I believe, received
From him that fled some strange indignity
Which patience could not pass.

OTHELLO

I know, Iago,
210 Thy honesty and love doth mince this matter,
Making it light to Cassio. Cassio, I love thee
But never more be officer of mine.—

OTHELLO

I know, Iago,
Thy honesty and love doth mince this matter,
Making it light to Cassio. Cassio, I love thee
But never more be officer of mine.—
Enter DESDEMONA , attended
Enter DESDEMONA , attended
Look, if my gentle love be not raised up!
I’ll make thee an example.
Look, if my gentle love be not raised up!
I’ll make thee an example.

DESDEMONA

215 What’s the matter, dear?

DESDEMONA

What’s the matter, dear?

OTHELLO

All’s well, sweeting,
Come away to bed.—(to MONTANO) Sir, for your hurts
Myself will be your surgeon. Lead him off.

OTHELLO

All’s well, sweeting,
Come away to bed.—(to MONTANO) Sir, for your hurts
Myself will be your surgeon. Lead him off.
MONTANO is led off
MONTANO is led off
Iago, look with care about the town
220 And silence those whom this vile brawl distracted.—
Come, Desdemona, ’tis the soldiers' life
To have their balmy slumbers waked with strife.
Iago, look with care about the town
And silence those whom this vile brawl distracted.—
Come, Desdemona, ’tis the soldiers' life
To have their balmy slumbers waked with strife.
Exeunt all but IAGO and CASSIO
Exeunt all but IAGO and CASSIO

IAGO

What, are you hurt, lieutenant?

IAGO

What, are you hurt, lieutenant?

CASSIO

Ay, past all surgery.

CASSIO

Ay, past all surgery.

IAGO

225 Marry, heaven forbid!

IAGO

Marry, heaven forbid!

CASSIO

Reputation, reputation, reputation! Oh, I have lost my reputation! I have lost the immortal part of myself, and what remains is bestial. My reputation, Iago, my reputation!

CASSIO

Reputation, reputation, reputation! Oh, I have lost my reputation! I have lost the immortal part of myself, and what remains is bestial. My reputation, Iago, my reputation!

IAGO

As I am an honest man, I thought you had received some bodily wound. There is more sense in that than in reputation. Reputation is an idle and most false imposition, oft got without merit and lost without deserving. You have lost no reputation at all unless you repute yourself such a loser. What, man, there are ways to recover the general again. You are but now cast in his mood, a punishment more in policy than in malice, even so as one would beat his offenseless dog to affright an imperious lion. Sue to him again and he’s yours.

IAGO

As I am an honest man, I thought you had received some bodily wound. There is more sense in that than in reputation. Reputation is an idle and most false imposition, oft got without merit and lost without deserving. You have lost no reputation at all unless you repute yourself such a loser. What, man, there are ways to recover the general again. You are but now cast in his mood, a punishment more in policy than in malice, even so as one would beat his offenseless dog to affright an imperious lion. Sue to him again and he’s yours.

CASSIO

I will rather sue to be despised than to deceive so good a commander with so slight, so drunken, and so indiscreet an officer. Drunk? And speak parrot? And squabble? Swagger? Swear? And discourse fustian with one’s own shadow? O thou invisible spirit of wine, if thou hast no name to be known by, let us call thee devil!

CASSIO

I will rather sue to be despised than to deceive so good a commander with so slight, so drunken, and so indiscreet an officer. Drunk? And speak parrot? And squabble? Swagger? Swear? And discourse fustian with one’s own shadow? O thou invisible spirit of wine, if thou hast no name to be known by, let us call thee devil!

IAGO

What was he that you followed with your sword? What had he done to you?

IAGO

What was he that you followed with your sword? What had he done to you?

CASSIO

230 I know not.

CASSIO

I know not.

IAGO

Is ’t possible?

IAGO

Is ’t possible?

CASSIO

I remember a mass of things, but nothing distinctly. A quarrel, but nothing wherefore. Oh, that men should put an enemy in their mouths to steal away their brains! That we should, with joy, pleasance revel and applause, transform ourselves into beasts!

CASSIO

I remember a mass of things, but nothing distinctly. A quarrel, but nothing wherefore. Oh, that men should put an enemy in their mouths to steal away their brains! That we should, with joy, pleasance revel and applause, transform ourselves into beasts!

IAGO

Why, but you are now well enough. How came you thus recovered?

IAGO

Why, but you are now well enough. How came you thus recovered?

CASSIO

It hath pleased the devil drunkenness to give place to the devil wrath. One unperfectness shows me another, to make me frankly despise myself.

CASSIO

It hath pleased the devil drunkenness to give place to the devil wrath. One unperfectness shows me another, to make me frankly despise myself.

IAGO

Come, you are too severe a moraler. As the time, the place, and the condition of this country stands, I could heartily wish this had not befallen. But since it is as it is, mend it for your own good.

IAGO

Come, you are too severe a moraler. As the time, the place, and the condition of this country stands, I could heartily wish this had not befallen. But since it is as it is, mend it for your own good.

CASSIO

I will ask him for my place again, he shall tell me I am a drunkard. Had I as many mouths as Hydra, such an answer would stop them all. To be now a sensible man, by and by a fool, and presently a beast! Oh, strange! Every inordinate cup is unblessed and the ingredient is a devil.

CASSIO

I will ask him for my place again, he shall tell me I am a drunkard. Had I as many mouths as Hydra, such an answer would stop them all. To be now a sensible man, by and by a fool, and presently a beast! Oh, strange! Every inordinate cup is unblessed and the ingredient is a devil.

IAGO

Come, come, good wine is a good familiar creature, if it be well used. Exclaim no more against it. And, good lieutenant, I think you think I love you.

IAGO

Come, come, good wine is a good familiar creature, if it be well used. Exclaim no more against it. And, good lieutenant, I think you think I love you.

CASSIO

I have well approved it, sir. I drunk!

CASSIO

I have well approved it, sir. I drunk!

IAGO

You or any man living may be drunk at a time, man. I tell you what you shall do. Our general’s wife is now the general. I may say so in this respect, for that he hath devoted and given up himself to the contemplation, mark, and denotement of her parts and graces. Confess yourself freely to her, importune her help to put you in your place again. She is of so free, so kind, so apt, so blessed a disposition, she holds it a vice in her goodness not to do more than she is requested. This broken joint between you and her husband entreat her to splinter, and, my fortunes against any lay worth naming, this crack of your love shall grow stronger than it was before.

IAGO

You or any man living may be drunk at a time, man. I tell you what you shall do. Our general’s wife is now the general. I may say so in this respect, for that he hath devoted and given up himself to the contemplation, mark, and denotement of her parts and graces. Confess yourself freely to her, importune her help to put you in your place again. She is of so free, so kind, so apt, so blessed a disposition, she holds it a vice in her goodness not to do more than she is requested. This broken joint between you and her husband entreat her to splinter, and, my fortunes against any lay worth naming, this crack of your love shall grow stronger than it was before.

CASSIO

240 You advise me well.

CASSIO

You advise me well.

IAGO

I protest, in the sincerity of love and honest kindness.

IAGO

I protest, in the sincerity of love and honest kindness.

CASSIO

I think it freely, and betimes in the morning I will beseech the virtuous Desdemona to undertake for me. I am desperate of my fortunes if they check me.

CASSIO

I think it freely, and betimes in the morning I will beseech the virtuous Desdemona to undertake for me. I am desperate of my fortunes if they check me.

IAGO

You are in the right. Good night, lieutenant, I must to the watch.

IAGO

You are in the right. Good night, lieutenant, I must to the watch.

CASSIO

Good night, honest Iago.

CASSIO

Good night, honest Iago.
Exit
Exit

IAGO

245 And what’s he then that says I play the villain?
When this advice is free I give and honest,
Probal to thinking and indeed the course
To win the Moor again? For ’tis most easy
Th' inclining Desdemona to subdue
250 In any honest suit. She’s framed as fruitful
As the free elements. And then for her
To win the Moor, were to renounce his baptism,
All seals and symbols of redeemèd sin,
His soul is so enfettered to her love,
255 That she may make, unmake, do what she list,
Even as her appetite shall play the god
With his weak function. How am I then a villain
To counsel Cassio to this parallel course,
Directly to his good? Divinity of hell!
260 When devils will the blackest sins put on
They do suggest at first with heavenly shows
As I do now. For whiles this honest fool
Plies Desdemona to repair his fortune
And she for him pleads strongly to the Moor,
265 I’ll pour this pestilence into his ear:

IAGO

And what’s he then that says I play the villain?
When this advice is free I give and honest,
Probal to thinking and indeed the course
To win the Moor again? For ’tis most easy
Th' inclining Desdemona to subdue
In any honest suit. She’s framed as fruitful
As the free elements. And then for her
To win the Moor, were to renounce his baptism,
All seals and symbols of redeemèd sin,
His soul is so enfettered to her love,
That she may make, unmake, do what she list,
Even as her appetite shall play the god
With his weak function. How am I then a villain
To counsel Cassio to this parallel course,
Directly to his good? Divinity of hell!
When devils will the blackest sins put on
They do suggest at first with heavenly shows
As I do now. For whiles this honest fool
Plies Desdemona to repair his fortune
And she for him pleads strongly to the Moor,
I’ll pour this pestilence into his ear:
That she repeals him for her body’s lust.
And by how much she strives to do him good
She shall undo her credit with the Moor.
So will I turn her virtue into pitch
270 And out of her own goodness make the net
That shall enmesh them all.
That she repeals him for her body’s lust.
And by how much she strives to do him good
She shall undo her credit with the Moor.
So will I turn her virtue into pitch
And out of her own goodness make the net
That shall enmesh them all.
Enter RODERIGO
Enter RODERIGO
How now, Roderigo!
How now, Roderigo!

RODERIGO

I do follow here in the chase not like a hound that hunts, but one that fills up the cry. My money is almost spent, I have been tonight exceedingly well cudgeled, and I think the issue will be I shall have so much experience for my pains. And so, with no money at all and a little more wit, return again to Venice.

RODERIGO

I do follow here in the chase not like a hound that hunts, but one that fills up the cry. My money is almost spent, I have been tonight exceedingly well cudgeled, and I think the issue will be I shall have so much experience for my pains. And so, with no money at all and a little more wit, return again to Venice.

IAGO

How poor are they that have not patience!
What wound did ever heal but by degrees?
275 Thou know’st we work by wit and not by witchcraft,
And wit depends on dilatory time.
Does’t not go well? Cassio hath beaten thee.
And thou, by that small hurt, hath cashiered Cassio.
Though other things grow fair against the sun,
280 Yet fruits that blossom first will first be ripe.
Content thyself awhile. In troth, ’tis morning.
Pleasure and action make the hours seem short.
Retire thee, go where thou art billeted.
Away, I say, thou shalt know more hereafter.
285 Nay, get thee gone.

IAGO

How poor are they that have not patience!
What wound did ever heal but by degrees?
Thou know’st we work by wit and not by witchcraft,
And wit depends on dilatory time.
Does’t not go well? Cassio hath beaten thee.
And thou, by that small hurt, hath cashiered Cassio.
Though other things grow fair against the sun,
Yet fruits that blossom first will first be ripe.
Content thyself awhile. In troth, ’tis morning.
Pleasure and action make the hours seem short.
Retire thee, go where thou art billeted.
Away, I say, thou shalt know more hereafter.
Nay, get thee gone.
Exit RODERIGO
Exit RODERIGO
Two things are to be done:
My wife must move for Cassio to her mistress.
I’ll set her on.
Myself, the while, to draw the Moor apart
And bring him jump when he may Cassio find
290 Soliciting his wife. Ay, that’s the way.
Dull not device by coldness and delay.
Two things are to be done:
My wife must move for Cassio to her mistress.
I’ll set her on.
Myself, the while, to draw the Moor apart
And bring him jump when he may Cassio find
Soliciting his wife. Ay, that’s the way.
Dull not device by coldness and delay.
Exit
Exit

Original Text

Modern Text
Enter OTHELLO , DESDEMONA , CASSIO , and attendants
Enter OTHELLO , DESDEMONA , CASSIO , and attendants

OTHELLO

Good Michael, look you to the guard tonight.
Let’s teach ourselves that honorable stop
Not to outsport discretion.

OTHELLO

Good Michael, look you to the guard tonight.
Let’s teach ourselves that honorable stop
Not to outsport discretion.

CASSIO

Iago hath direction what to do,
5 But notwithstanding with my personal eye
Will I look to ’t.

CASSIO

Iago hath direction what to do,
But notwithstanding with my personal eye
Will I look to ’t.

OTHELLO

Iago is most honest.
Michael, good night. Tomorrow with your earliest
Let me have speech with you.—
Come, my dear love,
10 The purchase made, the fruits are to ensue:
That profit’s yet to come ’tween me and you.
Good night.

OTHELLO

Iago is most honest.
Michael, good night. Tomorrow with your earliest
Let me have speech with you.—
Come, my dear love,
The purchase made, the fruits are to ensue:
That profit’s yet to come ’tween me and you.
Good night.
Exeunt OTHELLO , DESDEMONA , and attendants
Exeunt OTHELLO , DESDEMONA , and attendants
Enter IAGO
Enter IAGO

CASSIO

Welcome, Iago. We must to the watch.

CASSIO

Welcome, Iago. We must to the watch.

IAGO

Not this hour, lieutenant, ’tis not yet ten o' the clock. Our general cast us thus early for the love of his Desdemona—who let us not therefore blame. He hath not yet made wanton the night with her, and she is sport for Jove.

IAGO

Not this hour, lieutenant, ’tis not yet ten o' the clock. Our general cast us thus early for the love of his Desdemona—who let us not therefore blame. He hath not yet made wanton the night with her, and she is sport for Jove.

CASSIO

15 She’s a most exquisite lady.

CASSIO

She’s a most exquisite lady.

IAGO

And, I’ll warrant her, full of game.

IAGO

And, I’ll warrant her, full of game.

CASSIO

Indeed she’s a most fresh and delicate creature.

CASSIO

Indeed she’s a most fresh and delicate creature.

IAGO

What an eye she has! Methinks it sounds a parley to provocation.

IAGO

What an eye she has! Methinks it sounds a parley to provocation.

CASSIO

An inviting eye, and yet methinks right modest.

CASSIO

An inviting eye, and yet methinks right modest.

IAGO

20 And when she speaks, is it not an alarum to love?

IAGO

And when she speaks, is it not an alarum to love?

CASSIO

She is indeed perfection.

CASSIO

She is indeed perfection.

IAGO

Well, happiness to their sheets! Come, lieutenant, I have a stoup of wine, and here without are a brace of Cyprus gallants that would fain have a measure to the health of black Othello.

IAGO

Well, happiness to their sheets! Come, lieutenant, I have a stoup of wine, and here without are a brace of Cyprus gallants that would fain have a measure to the health of black Othello.

CASSIO

Not tonight, good Iago. I have very poor and unhappy brains for drinking. I could well wish courtesy would invent some other custom of entertainment.

CASSIO

Not tonight, good Iago. I have very poor and unhappy brains for drinking. I could well wish courtesy would invent some other custom of entertainment.

IAGO

Oh, they are our friends. But one cup. I’ll drink for you.

IAGO

Oh, they are our friends. But one cup. I’ll drink for you.

CASSIO

I have drunk but one cup tonight, and that was craftily qualified too, and behold what innovation it makes here. I am unfortunate in the infirmity, and dare not task my weakness with any more.

CASSIO

I have drunk but one cup tonight, and that was craftily qualified too, and behold what innovation it makes here. I am unfortunate in the infirmity, and dare not task my weakness with any more.

IAGO

What, man, ’tis a night of revels! The gallants desire it.

IAGO

What, man, ’tis a night of revels! The gallants desire it.

CASSIO

Where are they?

CASSIO

Where are they?

IAGO

Here at the door. I pray you call them in.

IAGO

Here at the door. I pray you call them in.

CASSIO

I’ll do ’t, but it dislikes me.

CASSIO

I’ll do ’t, but it dislikes me.
Exit
Exit

IAGO

30 If I can fasten but one cup upon him,
With that which he hath drunk tonight already,
He’ll be as full of quarrel and offense
As my young mistress' dog. Now my sick fool Roderigo,
Whom love hath turned almost the wrong side out,
35 To Desdemona hath tonight caroused
Potations pottle-deep, and he’s to watch.
Three lads of Cyprus, noble swelling spirits
(That hold their honors in a wary distance,
The very elements of this warlike isle)
40 Have I tonight flustered with flowing cups,
And they watch too. Now ’mongst this flock of drunkards
Am I to put our Cassio in some action
That may offend the isle.
But here they come.
If consequence do but approve my dream
45 My boat sails freely, both with wind and stream.

IAGO

If I can fasten but one cup upon him,
With that which he hath drunk tonight already,
He’ll be as full of quarrel and offense
As my young mistress' dog. Now my sick fool Roderigo,
Whom love hath turned almost the wrong side out,
To Desdemona hath tonight caroused
Potations pottle-deep, and he’s to watch.
Three lads of Cyprus, noble swelling spirits
(That hold their honors in a wary distance,
The very elements of this warlike isle)
Have I tonight flustered with flowing cups,
And they watch too. Now ’mongst this flock of drunkards
Am I to put our Cassio in some action
That may offend the isle.
But here they come.
If consequence do but approve my dream
My boat sails freely, both with wind and stream.
Enter CASSIO , MONTANO and gentlemen
Enter CASSIO , MONTANO and gentlemen

CASSIO

'Fore heaven, they have given me a rouse already.

CASSIO

'Fore heaven, they have given me a rouse already.

MONTANO

Good faith, a little one, not past a pint, As I am a soldier.

MONTANO

Good faith, a little one, not past a pint, As I am a soldier.

IAGO

Some wine, ho!
(sings)
 And let me the cannikin clink, clink,
 And let me the cannikin clink.
 A soldier’s a man,
 A life’s but a span,
 Why then let a soldier drink.
 Some wine, boys!

IAGO

Some wine, ho!
(sings)
 And let me the cannikin clink, clink,
 And let me the cannikin clink.
 A soldier’s a man,
 A life’s but a span,
 Why then let a soldier drink.
 Some wine, boys!

CASSIO

55 Fore heaven, an excellent song.

CASSIO

Fore heaven, an excellent song.

IAGO

I learned it in England where indeed they are most potent in potting. Your Dane, your German, and your swag-bellied Hollander—Drink, ho!—are nothing to your English.

IAGO

I learned it in England where indeed they are most potent in potting. Your Dane, your German, and your swag-bellied Hollander—Drink, ho!—are nothing to your English.

CASSIO

Is your Englishman so expert in his drinking?

CASSIO

Is your Englishman so expert in his drinking?

IAGO

Why, he drinks you with facility your Dane dead drunk; he sweats not to overthrow your Almain. He gives your Hollander a vomit ere the next pottle can be filled.

IAGO

Why, he drinks you with facility your Dane dead drunk; he sweats not to overthrow your Almain. He gives your Hollander a vomit ere the next pottle can be filled.

CASSIO

To the health of our general!

CASSIO

To the health of our general!

MONTANO

I am for it, lieutenant, and I’ll do you justice.

MONTANO

I am for it, lieutenant, and I’ll do you justice.

IAGO

Oh, sweet England!
(sings)
King Stephen was a worthy peer,
His breeches cost him but a crown,
He held them sixpence all too dear,
With that he called the tailor lown.
He was a wight of high renown,
And thou art but of low degree,
'Tis pride that pulls the country down,
Then take thine auld cloak about thee.
Some wine, ho!

IAGO

Oh, sweet England!
(sings)
King Stephen was a worthy peer,
His breeches cost him but a crown,
He held them sixpence all too dear,
With that he called the tailor lown.
He was a wight of high renown,
And thou art but of low degree,
'Tis pride that pulls the country down,
Then take thine auld cloak about thee.
Some wine, ho!

CASSIO

Why, this is a more exquisite song than the other.

CASSIO

Why, this is a more exquisite song than the other.

IAGO

Will you hear ’t again?

IAGO

Will you hear ’t again?

CASSIO

No, for I hold him to be unworthy of his place that does those things. Well, heaven’s above all, and there be souls must be saved, and there be souls must not be saved.

CASSIO

No, for I hold him to be unworthy of his place that does those things. Well, heaven’s above all, and there be souls must be saved, and there be souls must not be saved.

IAGO

75 It’s true, good lieutenant.

IAGO

It’s true, good lieutenant.

CASSIO

For mine own part, no offence to the general nor any man of quality, I hope to be saved.

CASSIO

For mine own part, no offence to the general nor any man of quality, I hope to be saved.

IAGO

And so do I too, lieutenant.

IAGO

And so do I too, lieutenant.

CASSIO

Ay, but (by your leave) not before me. The lieutenant is to be saved before the ancient. Let’s have no more of this, let’s to our affairs.—Forgive us our sins!—Gentlemen, let’s look to our business. Do not think, gentlemen, I am drunk. This is my ancient, this is my right hand, and this is my left. I am not drunk now. I can stand well enough, and I speak well enough.

CASSIO

Ay, but (by your leave) not before me. The lieutenant is to be saved before the ancient. Let’s have no more of this, let’s to our affairs.—Forgive us our sins!—Gentlemen, let’s look to our business. Do not think, gentlemen, I am drunk. This is my ancient, this is my right hand, and this is my left. I am not drunk now. I can stand well enough, and I speak well enough.

ALL

Excellent well!

ALL

Excellent well!

CASSIO

Why, very well then. You must not think then that I am drunk.

CASSIO

Why, very well then. You must not think then that I am drunk.
Exit
Exit

MONTANO

To th' platform, masters. Come, let’s set the watch.

MONTANO

To th' platform, masters. Come, let’s set the watch.
Exit GENTLEMEN
Exit GENTLEMEN

IAGO

You see this fellow that is gone before,
He is a soldier fit to stand by Caesar
And give direction. And do but see his vice,
85 'Tis to his virtue a just equinox,
The one as long as th' other. 'Tis pity of him.
I fear the trust Othello puts him in
On some odd time of his infirmity
Will shake this island.

IAGO

You see this fellow that is gone before,
He is a soldier fit to stand by Caesar
And give direction. And do but see his vice,
'Tis to his virtue a just equinox,
The one as long as th' other. 'Tis pity of him.
I fear the trust Othello puts him in
On some odd time of his infirmity
Will shake this island.

MONTANO

But is he often thus?

MONTANO

But is he often thus?

IAGO

90 'Tis evermore the prologue to his sleep.
He’ll watch the horologe a double set
If drink rock not his cradle.

IAGO

'Tis evermore the prologue to his sleep.
He’ll watch the horologe a double set
If drink rock not his cradle.

MONTANO

It were well
The general were put in mind of it.
Perhaps he sees it not, or his good nature
95 Prizes the virtue that appears in Cassio
And looks not on his evils. Is not this true?

MONTANO

It were well
The general were put in mind of it.
Perhaps he sees it not, or his good nature
Prizes the virtue that appears in Cassio
And looks not on his evils. Is not this true?
Enter RODERIGO
Enter RODERIGO

IAGO

(aside) How now, Roderigo?
I pray you, after the lieutenant, go!

IAGO

(aside) How now, Roderigo?
I pray you, after the lieutenant, go!
Exit RODERIGO
Exit RODERIGO

MONTANO

And ’tis great pity that the noble Moor
100 Should hazard such a place as his own second
With one of an ingraft infirmity.
It were an honest action to say
So to the Moor.

MONTANO

And ’tis great pity that the noble Moor
Should hazard such a place as his own second
With one of an ingraft infirmity.
It were an honest action to say
So to the Moor.

IAGO

Not I, for this fair island.
I do love Cassio well, and would do much
105 To cure him of this evil—

IAGO

Not I, for this fair island.
I do love Cassio well, and would do much
To cure him of this evil—
Cry within “Help! help!”
Cry within “Help! help!”

IAGO

But, hark! What noise?

IAGO

But, hark! What noise?
Enter CASSIO , pursuing RODERIGO
Enter CASSIO , pursuing RODERIGO

CASSIO

Zounds! You rogue! You rascal!

CASSIO

Zounds! You rogue! You rascal!

MONTANO

What’s the matter, lieutenant?

MONTANO

What’s the matter, lieutenant?

CASSIO

A knave teach me my duty?
110 I’ll beat the knave into a twiggen bottle.

CASSIO

A knave teach me my duty?
I’ll beat the knave into a twiggen bottle.

RODERIGO

Beat me?

RODERIGO

Beat me?

CASSIO

Dost thou prate, rogue? (strikes him)

CASSIO

Dost thou prate, rogue? (strikes him)

MONTANO

Nay, good lieutenant! I pray you, sir, hold your hand. (stays him)

MONTANO

Nay, good lieutenant! I pray you, sir, hold your hand. (stays him)

CASSIO

Let me go, sir, or I’ll knock you o'er the mazzard.

CASSIO

Let me go, sir, or I’ll knock you o'er the mazzard.

MONTANO

115 Come, come, you’re drunk.

MONTANO

Come, come, you’re drunk.

CASSIO

Drunk?

CASSIO

Drunk?
They fight
They fight

IAGO

(aside to RODERIGO)
Away, I say, go out, and cry a mutiny.—

IAGO

(aside to RODERIGO)
Away, I say, go out, and cry a mutiny.—
Exit RODERIGO
Exit RODERIGO
Nay, good lieutenant! Alas, gentlemen—
Help, ho!— Lieutenant—sir, Montano—
Help, masters!—Here’s a goodly watch indeed!
Nay, good lieutenant! Alas, gentlemen—
Help, ho!— Lieutenant—sir, Montano—
Help, masters!—Here’s a goodly watch indeed!
Bell rings
Bell rings
Who’s that which rings the bell?—Diablo, ho!
The town will rise. Fie, Fie, lieutenant,
You’ll be ashamed for ever.
Who’s that which rings the bell?—Diablo, ho!
The town will rise. Fie, Fie, lieutenant,
You’ll be ashamed for ever.
Enter OTHELLO and attendants
Enter OTHELLO and attendants

OTHELLO

125 What is the matter here?

OTHELLO

What is the matter here?

MONTANO

I bleed still,
I am hurt to the death. He dies!

MONTANO

I bleed still,
I am hurt to the death. He dies!

OTHELLO

Hold, for your lives!

OTHELLO

Hold, for your lives!

IAGO

Hold, ho! Lieutenant—sir, Montano—gentlemen,
130 Have you forgot all place of sense and duty?
Hold! The general speaks to you. Hold, for shame!

IAGO

Hold, ho! Lieutenant—sir, Montano—gentlemen,
Have you forgot all place of sense and duty?
Hold! The general speaks to you. Hold, for shame!

OTHELLO

Why, how now, ho! From whence ariseth this?
Are we turned Turks? And to ourselves do that
Which heaven hath forbid the Ottomites?
135 For Christian shame, put by this barbarous brawl.
He that stirs next to carve for his own rage
Holds his soul light, he dies upon his motion.
Silence that dreadful bell, it frights the isle
From her propriety. What is the matter, masters?—
140 Honest Iago, that looks dead with grieving,
Speak, who began this? On thy love, I charge thee.

OTHELLO

Why, how now, ho! From whence ariseth this?
Are we turned Turks? And to ourselves do that
Which heaven hath forbid the Ottomites?
For Christian shame, put by this barbarous brawl.
He that stirs next to carve for his own rage
Holds his soul light, he dies upon his motion.
Silence that dreadful bell, it frights the isle
From her propriety. What is the matter, masters?—
Honest Iago, that looks dead with grieving,
Speak, who began this? On thy love, I charge thee.

IAGO

I do not know. Friends all but now, even now,
In quarter, and in terms like bride and groom
Divesting them for bed. And then, but now,
145 As if some planet had unwitted men,

IAGO

I do not know. Friends all but now, even now,
In quarter, and in terms like bride and groom
Divesting them for bed. And then, but now,
As if some planet had unwitted men,
Swords out, and tilting one at other’s breasts
In opposition bloody. I cannot speak
Any beginning to this peevish odds,
And would in action glorious I had lost
150 Those legs that brought me to a part of it.
Swords out, and tilting one at other’s breasts
In opposition bloody. I cannot speak
Any beginning to this peevish odds,
And would in action glorious I had lost
Those legs that brought me to a part of it.

OTHELLO

How comes it, Michael, you are thus forgot?

OTHELLO

How comes it, Michael, you are thus forgot?

CASSIO

I pray you pardon me, I cannot speak.

CASSIO

I pray you pardon me, I cannot speak.

OTHELLO

Worthy Montano, you were wont be civil.
The gravity and stillness of your youth
155 The world hath noted, and your name is great
In mouths of wisest censure. What’s the matter
That you unlace your reputation thus
And spend your rich opinion for the name
Of a night-brawler? Give me answer to it.

OTHELLO

Worthy Montano, you were wont be civil.
The gravity and stillness of your youth
The world hath noted, and your name is great
In mouths of wisest censure. What’s the matter
That you unlace your reputation thus
And spend your rich opinion for the name
Of a night-brawler? Give me answer to it.

MONTANO

160 Worthy Othello, I am hurt to danger.
Your officer Iago can inform you,
While I spare speech, which something now offends me,
Of all that I do know. Nor know I aught
By me that’s said or done amiss this night,
165 Unless self-charity be sometimes a vice,
And to defend ourselves it be a sin
When violence assails us.

MONTANO

Worthy Othello, I am hurt to danger.
Your officer Iago can inform you,
While I spare speech, which something now offends me,
Of all that I do know. Nor know I aught
By me that’s said or done amiss this night,
Unless self-charity be sometimes a vice,
And to defend ourselves it be a sin
When violence assails us.

OTHELLO

Now, by heaven,
My blood begins my safer guides to rule,
And passion, having my best judgment collied,
170 Assays to lead the way. If I once stir,

OTHELLO

Now, by heaven,
My blood begins my safer guides to rule,
And passion, having my best judgment collied,
Assays to lead the way. If I once stir,
Or do but lift this arm, the best of you
Shall sink in my rebuke. Give me to know
How this foul rout began, who set it on,
And he that is approved in this offence,
175 Though he had twinned with me, both at a birth,
Shall lose me. What, in a town of war
Yet wild, the people’s hearts brimful of fear,
To manage private and domestic quarrel?
In night, and on the court and guard of safety?
180 'Tis monstrous. Iago, who began ’t?
Or do but lift this arm, the best of you
Shall sink in my rebuke. Give me to know
How this foul rout began, who set it on,
And he that is approved in this offence,
Though he had twinned with me, both at a birth,
Shall lose me. What, in a town of war
Yet wild, the people’s hearts brimful of fear,
To manage private and domestic quarrel?
In night, and on the court and guard of safety?
'Tis monstrous. Iago, who began ’t?

MONTANO

If partially affined or leagued in office
Thou dost deliver more or less than truth
Thou art no soldier.

MONTANO

If partially affined or leagued in office
Thou dost deliver more or less than truth
Thou art no soldier.

IAGO

Touch me not so near.
I had rather have this tongue cut from my mouth
185 Than it should do offence to Michael Cassio.
Yet I persuade myself to speak the truth
Shall nothing wrong him. This it is, general:
Montano and myself being in speech,
There comes a fellow crying out for help
190 And Cassio following him with determined sword
To execute upon him. Sir, this gentleman
Steps in to Cassio and entreats his pause,
Myself the crying fellow did pursue,
Lest by his clamor—as it so fell out—
195 The town might fall in fright. He, swift of foot,
Outran my purpose, and I returned then rather
For that I heard the clink and fall of swords
And Cassio high in oath, which till tonight
I ne'er might say before. When I came back—
200 For this was brief— I found them close together
At blow and thrust, even as again they were
When you yourself did part them.
More of this matter cannot I report.

IAGO

Touch me not so near.
I had rather have this tongue cut from my mouth
Than it should do offence to Michael Cassio.
Yet I persuade myself to speak the truth
Shall nothing wrong him. This it is, general:
Montano and myself being in speech,
There comes a fellow crying out for help
And Cassio following him with determined sword
To execute upon him. Sir, this gentleman
Steps in to Cassio and entreats his pause,
Myself the crying fellow did pursue,
Lest by his clamor—as it so fell out—
The town might fall in fright. He, swift of foot,
Outran my purpose, and I returned then rather
For that I heard the clink and fall of swords
And Cassio high in oath, which till tonight
I ne'er might say before. When I came back—
For this was brief— I found them close together
At blow and thrust, even as again they were
When you yourself did part them.
More of this matter cannot I report.
But men are men, the best sometimes forget.
205 Though Cassio did some little wrong to him,
As men in rage strike those that wish them best,
Yet surely Cassio, I believe, received
From him that fled some strange indignity
Which patience could not pass.
But men are men, the best sometimes forget.
Though Cassio did some little wrong to him,
As men in rage strike those that wish them best,
Yet surely Cassio, I believe, received
From him that fled some strange indignity
Which patience could not pass.

OTHELLO

I know, Iago,
210 Thy honesty and love doth mince this matter,
Making it light to Cassio. Cassio, I love thee
But never more be officer of mine.—

OTHELLO

I know, Iago,
Thy honesty and love doth mince this matter,
Making it light to Cassio. Cassio, I love thee
But never more be officer of mine.—
Enter DESDEMONA , attended
Enter DESDEMONA , attended
Look, if my gentle love be not raised up!
I’ll make thee an example.
Look, if my gentle love be not raised up!
I’ll make thee an example.

DESDEMONA

215 What’s the matter, dear?

DESDEMONA

What’s the matter, dear?

OTHELLO

All’s well, sweeting,
Come away to bed.—(to MONTANO) Sir, for your hurts
Myself will be your surgeon. Lead him off.

OTHELLO

All’s well, sweeting,
Come away to bed.—(to MONTANO) Sir, for your hurts
Myself will be your surgeon. Lead him off.
MONTANO is led off
MONTANO is led off
Iago, look with care about the town
220 And silence those whom this vile brawl distracted.—
Come, Desdemona, ’tis the soldiers' life
To have their balmy slumbers waked with strife.
Iago, look with care about the town
And silence those whom this vile brawl distracted.—
Come, Desdemona, ’tis the soldiers' life
To have their balmy slumbers waked with strife.
Exeunt all but IAGO and CASSIO
Exeunt all but IAGO and CASSIO

IAGO

What, are you hurt, lieutenant?

IAGO

What, are you hurt, lieutenant?

CASSIO

Ay, past all surgery.

CASSIO

Ay, past all surgery.

IAGO

225 Marry, heaven forbid!

IAGO

Marry, heaven forbid!

CASSIO

Reputation, reputation, reputation! Oh, I have lost my reputation! I have lost the immortal part of myself, and what remains is bestial. My reputation, Iago, my reputation!

CASSIO

Reputation, reputation, reputation! Oh, I have lost my reputation! I have lost the immortal part of myself, and what remains is bestial. My reputation, Iago, my reputation!

IAGO

As I am an honest man, I thought you had received some bodily wound. There is more sense in that than in reputation. Reputation is an idle and most false imposition, oft got without merit and lost without deserving. You have lost no reputation at all unless you repute yourself such a loser. What, man, there are ways to recover the general again. You are but now cast in his mood, a punishment more in policy than in malice, even so as one would beat his offenseless dog to affright an imperious lion. Sue to him again and he’s yours.

IAGO

As I am an honest man, I thought you had received some bodily wound. There is more sense in that than in reputation. Reputation is an idle and most false imposition, oft got without merit and lost without deserving. You have lost no reputation at all unless you repute yourself such a loser. What, man, there are ways to recover the general again. You are but now cast in his mood, a punishment more in policy than in malice, even so as one would beat his offenseless dog to affright an imperious lion. Sue to him again and he’s yours.

CASSIO

I will rather sue to be despised than to deceive so good a commander with so slight, so drunken, and so indiscreet an officer. Drunk? And speak parrot? And squabble? Swagger? Swear? And discourse fustian with one’s own shadow? O thou invisible spirit of wine, if thou hast no name to be known by, let us call thee devil!

CASSIO

I will rather sue to be despised than to deceive so good a commander with so slight, so drunken, and so indiscreet an officer. Drunk? And speak parrot? And squabble? Swagger? Swear? And discourse fustian with one’s own shadow? O thou invisible spirit of wine, if thou hast no name to be known by, let us call thee devil!

IAGO

What was he that you followed with your sword? What had he done to you?

IAGO

What was he that you followed with your sword? What had he done to you?

CASSIO

230 I know not.

CASSIO

I know not.

IAGO

Is ’t possible?

IAGO

Is ’t possible?

CASSIO

I remember a mass of things, but nothing distinctly. A quarrel, but nothing wherefore. Oh, that men should put an enemy in their mouths to steal away their brains! That we should, with joy, pleasance revel and applause, transform ourselves into beasts!

CASSIO

I remember a mass of things, but nothing distinctly. A quarrel, but nothing wherefore. Oh, that men should put an enemy in their mouths to steal away their brains! That we should, with joy, pleasance revel and applause, transform ourselves into beasts!

IAGO

Why, but you are now well enough. How came you thus recovered?

IAGO

Why, but you are now well enough. How came you thus recovered?

CASSIO

It hath pleased the devil drunkenness to give place to the devil wrath. One unperfectness shows me another, to make me frankly despise myself.

CASSIO

It hath pleased the devil drunkenness to give place to the devil wrath. One unperfectness shows me another, to make me frankly despise myself.

IAGO

Come, you are too severe a moraler. As the time, the place, and the condition of this country stands, I could heartily wish this had not befallen. But since it is as it is, mend it for your own good.

IAGO

Come, you are too severe a moraler. As the time, the place, and the condition of this country stands, I could heartily wish this had not befallen. But since it is as it is, mend it for your own good.

CASSIO

I will ask him for my place again, he shall tell me I am a drunkard. Had I as many mouths as Hydra, such an answer would stop them all. To be now a sensible man, by and by a fool, and presently a beast! Oh, strange! Every inordinate cup is unblessed and the ingredient is a devil.

CASSIO

I will ask him for my place again, he shall tell me I am a drunkard. Had I as many mouths as Hydra, such an answer would stop them all. To be now a sensible man, by and by a fool, and presently a beast! Oh, strange! Every inordinate cup is unblessed and the ingredient is a devil.

IAGO

Come, come, good wine is a good familiar creature, if it be well used. Exclaim no more against it. And, good lieutenant, I think you think I love you.

IAGO

Come, come, good wine is a good familiar creature, if it be well used. Exclaim no more against it. And, good lieutenant, I think you think I love you.

CASSIO

I have well approved it, sir. I drunk!

CASSIO

I have well approved it, sir. I drunk!

IAGO

You or any man living may be drunk at a time, man. I tell you what you shall do. Our general’s wife is now the general. I may say so in this respect, for that he hath devoted and given up himself to the contemplation, mark, and denotement of her parts and graces. Confess yourself freely to her, importune her help to put you in your place again. She is of so free, so kind, so apt, so blessed a disposition, she holds it a vice in her goodness not to do more than she is requested. This broken joint between you and her husband entreat her to splinter, and, my fortunes against any lay worth naming, this crack of your love shall grow stronger than it was before.

IAGO

You or any man living may be drunk at a time, man. I tell you what you shall do. Our general’s wife is now the general. I may say so in this respect, for that he hath devoted and given up himself to the contemplation, mark, and denotement of her parts and graces. Confess yourself freely to her, importune her help to put you in your place again. She is of so free, so kind, so apt, so blessed a disposition, she holds it a vice in her goodness not to do more than she is requested. This broken joint between you and her husband entreat her to splinter, and, my fortunes against any lay worth naming, this crack of your love shall grow stronger than it was before.

CASSIO

240 You advise me well.

CASSIO

You advise me well.

IAGO

I protest, in the sincerity of love and honest kindness.

IAGO

I protest, in the sincerity of love and honest kindness.

CASSIO

I think it freely, and betimes in the morning I will beseech the virtuous Desdemona to undertake for me. I am desperate of my fortunes if they check me.

CASSIO

I think it freely, and betimes in the morning I will beseech the virtuous Desdemona to undertake for me. I am desperate of my fortunes if they check me.

IAGO

You are in the right. Good night, lieutenant, I must to the watch.

IAGO

You are in the right. Good night, lieutenant, I must to the watch.

CASSIO

Good night, honest Iago.

CASSIO

Good night, honest Iago.
Exit
Exit

IAGO

245 And what’s he then that says I play the villain?
When this advice is free I give and honest,
Probal to thinking and indeed the course
To win the Moor again? For ’tis most easy
Th' inclining Desdemona to subdue
250 In any honest suit. She’s framed as fruitful
As the free elements. And then for her
To win the Moor, were to renounce his baptism,
All seals and symbols of redeemèd sin,
His soul is so enfettered to her love,
255 That she may make, unmake, do what she list,
Even as her appetite shall play the god
With his weak function. How am I then a villain
To counsel Cassio to this parallel course,
Directly to his good? Divinity of hell!
260 When devils will the blackest sins put on
They do suggest at first with heavenly shows
As I do now. For whiles this honest fool
Plies Desdemona to repair his fortune
And she for him pleads strongly to the Moor,
265 I’ll pour this pestilence into his ear:

IAGO

And what’s he then that says I play the villain?
When this advice is free I give and honest,
Probal to thinking and indeed the course
To win the Moor again? For ’tis most easy
Th' inclining Desdemona to subdue
In any honest suit. She’s framed as fruitful
As the free elements. And then for her
To win the Moor, were to renounce his baptism,
All seals and symbols of redeemèd sin,
His soul is so enfettered to her love,
That she may make, unmake, do what she list,
Even as her appetite shall play the god
With his weak function. How am I then a villain
To counsel Cassio to this parallel course,
Directly to his good? Divinity of hell!
When devils will the blackest sins put on
They do suggest at first with heavenly shows
As I do now. For whiles this honest fool
Plies Desdemona to repair his fortune
And she for him pleads strongly to the Moor,
I’ll pour this pestilence into his ear:
That she repeals him for her body’s lust.
And by how much she strives to do him good
She shall undo her credit with the Moor.
So will I turn her virtue into pitch
270 And out of her own goodness make the net
That shall enmesh them all.
That she repeals him for her body’s lust.
And by how much she strives to do him good
She shall undo her credit with the Moor.
So will I turn her virtue into pitch
And out of her own goodness make the net
That shall enmesh them all.
Enter RODERIGO
Enter RODERIGO
How now, Roderigo!
How now, Roderigo!

RODERIGO

I do follow here in the chase not like a hound that hunts, but one that fills up the cry. My money is almost spent, I have been tonight exceedingly well cudgeled, and I think the issue will be I shall have so much experience for my pains. And so, with no money at all and a little more wit, return again to Venice.

RODERIGO

I do follow here in the chase not like a hound that hunts, but one that fills up the cry. My money is almost spent, I have been tonight exceedingly well cudgeled, and I think the issue will be I shall have so much experience for my pains. And so, with no money at all and a little more wit, return again to Venice.

IAGO

How poor are they that have not patience!
What wound did ever heal but by degrees?
275 Thou know’st we work by wit and not by witchcraft,
And wit depends on dilatory time.
Does’t not go well? Cassio hath beaten thee.
And thou, by that small hurt, hath cashiered Cassio.
Though other things grow fair against the sun,
280 Yet fruits that blossom first will first be ripe.
Content thyself awhile. In troth, ’tis morning.
Pleasure and action make the hours seem short.
Retire thee, go where thou art billeted.
Away, I say, thou shalt know more hereafter.
285 Nay, get thee gone.

IAGO

How poor are they that have not patience!
What wound did ever heal but by degrees?
Thou know’st we work by wit and not by witchcraft,
And wit depends on dilatory time.
Does’t not go well? Cassio hath beaten thee.
And thou, by that small hurt, hath cashiered Cassio.
Though other things grow fair against the sun,
Yet fruits that blossom first will first be ripe.
Content thyself awhile. In troth, ’tis morning.
Pleasure and action make the hours seem short.
Retire thee, go where thou art billeted.
Away, I say, thou shalt know more hereafter.
Nay, get thee gone.
Exit RODERIGO
Exit RODERIGO
Two things are to be done:
My wife must move for Cassio to her mistress.
I’ll set her on.
Myself, the while, to draw the Moor apart
And bring him jump when he may Cassio find
290 Soliciting his wife. Ay, that’s the way.
Dull not device by coldness and delay.
Two things are to be done:
My wife must move for Cassio to her mistress.
I’ll set her on.
Myself, the while, to draw the Moor apart
And bring him jump when he may Cassio find
Soliciting his wife. Ay, that’s the way.
Dull not device by coldness and delay.
Exit
Exit
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