HL Past Exam Questions


Higher Level – Past Exam Questions Each question is worth 60 marks.


2015


(i) “Desdemona and Emilia are weak characters who fail to gain our sympathy.” To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view of Desdemona and Emilia? Support your answer with reference to the play, Othello. OR


(ii) “The values evident in Othello have a profound influence on the outcome of the play.” Discuss this view, supporting your answer with reference to at least two of the values evident in the text.


2008


1. (i) ‘Othello’s foolishness rather than Iago’s cleverness leads to the tragedy of Shakespeare’s Othello.’ Discuss this statement supporting your answer with the aid of suitable reference to the text. OR


(ii) ‘Shakespeare’s play Othello demonstrates the weakness of human judgement.’ Discuss this statement supporting your answer with the aid of suitable reference to the text.


Higher Level – Sample Questions


1. ‘Othello’s flawed humanity is the primary reason for the play’s tragedy.’ Discuss this statement supporting your answer with suitable reference to Shakespeare’s play Othello.


2. ‘A combination of Othello’s flaws, chance and Iago’s cleverness bring about the tragedy of the play.’ To what extent would you agree with the above view? Support your answer by referring to the play, Othello.


3. ‘The audience condemn Othello for his actions, but pity him for his suffering.’ Discuss this statement making reference to Shakespeare’s play Othello.


4. ‘Although sinister and malicious, the character of Iago captivates the audience of Othello.’ Write a response to this statement. Support your answer with reference to the play.


5. I hate the Moor. ‘The reasons for Iago’s hatred of Othello are an intriguing aspect of Shakespeare’s play.’ Write a response to this statement. You should refer to the play in your answer.


6. ‘Whereas Desdemona is innocent and pure, Emilia is worldly and cynical.’ Discuss this view, making reference to Shakespeare’s play Othello.


7. ‘The struggle between good and evil is a central theme of Othello.’ Support your answer with reference to the play.


215


Sample Answer on P219


Sample Answer on P221


Sample Answer on P217


Othello


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