Question

Why does Iago first raise his weapon towards Emilia?

1) He's afraid she will reveal the truth about the handkerchief.
2) He's afraid she will reveal the truth about Cassio.
3) He's afraid that she will reveal that he stabbed Cassio.
4) He's afraid that she will spoil his alibi.

Answer 1

Iago raises his weapon towards Emilia to prevent her from exposing his manipulation with the handkerchief in Shakespeare's Othello.

Step-by-step explanation:

The reason Iago first raises his weapon towards Emilia in Shakespeare's Othello is out of fear that she will reveal the truth about the handkerchief. The handkerchief is a pivotal plot device; Iago used it to manipulate Othello into believing Desdemona has been unfaithful with Cassio. When Emilia discovers the truth about Iago's manipulation and deceit, she becomes a direct threat to Iago's elaborate scheme, prompting him to consider silencing her permanently to prevent the exposure of his treachery.

Answer 2

3) He's afraid that she will reveal that he stabbed Cassio. BECAUSE Iago raises his weapon towards Emilia because he fears she will expose his involvement in Cassio's stabbing, a critical revelation jeopardizing his deceitful schemes.

Step-by-step explanation:

Iago raises his weapon towards Emilia because he fears that she will expose his involvement in Cassio's stabbing. This pivotal moment occurs in Act 5, Scene 2 of William Shakespeare's play "Othello."

Iago's manipulation and deceit have led to a chain of tragic events, including Cassio's injury. As Emilia begins to comprehend the depth of Iago's schemes and the devastation they have caused, she becomes a threat to his carefully constructed web of lies.

Emilia's loyalty to Desdemona and her growing awareness of Iago's malevolence put her in a position to reveal the truth. Iago, recognizing the danger of Emilia's potential revelation, resorts to violence to silence her.

The stabbing not only serves as a desperate attempt to protect his secrets but also underscores the extent of Iago's treachery. This climactic moment underscores the tragic consequences of Iago's manipulations, leading to a chilling climax in the play.

Shakespeare masterfully uses this scene to expose the destructive power of jealousy and deception, showcasing how it can lead even the most cunning characters to their own undoing.

Therefore, the correct answer is option 3