Othello and Iago

According to Adrian Lester, how long has Othello been fighting for?
Adrian thinks Othello has been fighting since the age of 7.

According to Adrian Lester, Othello is not born into a 'sense of nobility', like those around him. How does Adrian Lester say this impacts the character?
He believes that Othello is always conscious about the way that he appears to others.

What increases Othello's status in Venice?
Marrying Desdemona increases Othello status in Venice.

Why does Rory Kinnear say Iago is disgruntled with Othello?
Iago is disgruntled because the job he wanted has been given to a younger, posher man: Cassio.

What do Othello and Iago have in common, according to Rory Kinnear?
they have worked together for a very long time and have seen the horrors of war together. Iago is Othello's most trusted soldier.

Around 4.20, Rory Kinnear lists some of the ways Iago aims to bring down Othello and Cassio. What are they?
Iago is going to bring Othello down through subterfuge (deceit), insinuation and through getting people on his side.

Desdemona and Emilia
What differences are there between Desdemona and Emilia?
Emilia is older than Desdemona and has a very different view  of men. Emilia is more active in comparison to Desdemona who is very passive.  Desdemona is also much more naïve then Emilia and she tries to be the perfect wife to Othello. This is evident when Desdemona does not question Othello for striking her or before he murders.

Why do you think Emilia does not mention the handkerchief to Desdemona?
Emilia believes that if she gives Iago the handkerchief this will please him and they will be happier in their relationship. The relationship between Emilia and Iago is described as 'abusive', Emilia hopes their relationship will be more like Othello's and Desdemona's.