Literary Terms:

• Soliloquy: Iago's soliloquies are key in revealing his true intentions and thoughts to the audience, while other characters remain unaware of his evil plans.

• The Handkerchief:  The handkerchief that Othello gives to Desdemona symbolizes their love and faithfulness. When it is lost and later found with Cassio, it becomes a symbol of Othello's mistrust and jealousy.
• The Willow Song: Desdemona sings the "Willow Song" in Act 4, Scene 3, a song about a woman who is abandoned by her lover. This song symbolizes Desdemona's innocence, her sorrow, and her premonition of her tragic fate. 
• The Candle: The candle Othello blows out just before killing Desdemona symbolizes her life. 
• The Sea/Storms: The sea and storms that occur at the start of the play symbolize the chaos and turmoil that will soon follow in the characters' lives. 

• Irony: Othello is filled with dramatic irony, especially surrounding Iago. The audience knows that Iago is manipulating Othello, while Othello believes Iago is trustworthy.
• Symbolism/Symbols: The handkerchief in the play symbolizes Desdemona’s loyalty, and its loss represents the unravelling of trust between her and Othello.

• Jealousy destroys relationships and lives.
• Truth and trust are essential.