Othello opens to a scene on a street in Venice. Roderigo, a wealthy man, and Iago are arguing. Roderigo has been paying Iago for help in trying to hook up with Desdemonia, so far he has been unsuccessful. Roderigo has also just learned that Othello and Desdemonia have married, furthering the extent of his disdain. Iago (whom we later find out to be the villain of the play) comments on his hate for Othello. Apparently he was recently passed up for a promotion to lieutenant, and a less experienced Cassio was chosen in his place.
They proceed to tell Brabanzio that Othello has kidnapped and…
