The Duke is meeting with his senators about the Turkish invasion of Cyprus. One of the senators suggests that the Turks have changed their course to throw off the Venetians. This proves to be true, as a messenger informs them that the Turks are heading towards Cyprus.Iago arrives with Othello and warns him that Brabanzio will force a divorce between Othello and Desdemona. Cassio and other officers bring Othello a message that he is wanted by the duke of Venice about a matter concerning Cyprus. Brabanzio and his men arrive to attack and subdue Othello. However, Othello calmly and authoritatively tells the men to put down their swords. The Duke is eager to hear Othello's side of the story. Othello explains how Brabantio would invite him over to his house, where he would share stories of his adventurous yet, rough past. That is how Desdemona fell in love with him. From hearing this, the Duke disregards what Brabantio has said. Then Desdemona enters and claims she chose to marry Othello. No one forced her to. It was out of her own free-will. The Duke decides that Othello must go to Cyprus to attack the Turks. Othello takes Desdemona with him. Iago and Roderigo are left alone. Roderigo believes he has no chance with Desdemona. Iago tells him he should "put but money in thy purse" instead of wasting his energy on Desdemona. Iago delivers his first soliloquy, where he admits that he hates Othello because he suspects that he might've slept with his wife. Throughout the first two scenes, Othello is always referred to as "the moor", "thick-lips", "a Barbary horse", and even "the devil." There is a lack of respect for Africans even though, Othello is an important authoritative figure.
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