Othello: Act I (Venice)

Othello - a Moorish general in the Venetian army. Secretly marries Desdemona, a cute while girl, daughter of a Venetian gentleman.

Iago - Othello's subordinate, is miffed that Othello has promoted Cassio (a better educated but less experienced soldier) rather than he. Also thinks Othello might have slept with his wife, Emilia. Plots revenge on both, starts by telling Desdemona's father, Brabantio, of the marriage (without identifying himself).

Brabantio hits the roof and trots off to see the Duke, with whom he is friendly, to have Othello charged. He refuses to believe Desdemona would marry a Moor of her own free will, and accuses Othello of everything from witch-craft to date-rape.

The Duke has already called Othello to his palace, as the Turks are invading Cyprus. Othello is required to sail there to defend the island. Brabantio confronts Othello, who calls upon to Desdemona to spill the beans, which she does. The Duke is satisfied and allows her to follow Othello to Cyprus, leaving Brabantio enraged. Othello has to scoot, so he ironically entrusts Desdemona's safety to Iago.

Roderigo - a rich but foolish young fellow is keen on Desdemona. Iago pledges to help him charm her from Othello, and takes payment. However, the young sap is to be used as a pawn in Iago's plan....

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And there you have it - it's pretty dark stuff. Iago is a right sod, that much you can tell already. I'm already into Act II, so hopefully another update should come soon.