1 A secret marriage

Othello

Chapter 1 A secret marriage Two men were hurrying down a dark Venice street. They were lago, an old soldier, and his friend, Roderigo. lago was scowling. "How dare Othello promote Cassio and not me?" he said bitterly. "I've got twice as much experience. I hate Othello!"

Roderigo nodded. "I hate Othello too, for marrying Desdemona." lago smiled grimly. "Let's see what her father makes of it. Look, here's his house." lago shouted until an old man looked out. "Brabantio," lago greeted him. "Your daughter has run off with Othello!" "No!" wailed the old man. "I will find them, and seek justice from the Duke."

The Duke of Venice was in his palace discussing war plans when the door burst open. In came Brabantio, pushing Othello and Desdemona before him. "This thief has stolen my daughter and married her behind my back," howled Brabantio. "He must have used magic, or she would never have married a Moor." His voice dripped hatred. "Othello, is this true?" asked the duke.

"I have married Desdemona," answered Othello proudly. "But there was no 'magic' except for love. I told her the story of my life- of my escape from slavery, the battles I fought, the strange sights I have seen- and she sighed to hear it." The duke smiled. "Then we should accept this marriage," he declared. "Desdemona, what about your duty?" cried Brabantio.

"Father, I am your daughter," answered Desdemona softly. "But Othello is my husband, and I must show him the same duty that my mother showed you." "Now to business," the duke went on. "I hear Turkish forces are planning to attack Cyprus. Othello, you must take charge of our fortress there. Leave tonight." "Let me come with you," Desdemona begged Othello. "You can sail with lago and the supplies," he replied, kissing her hand as everyone left.