Prior to Othello’s speech, Brabantio expresses his concerns about Desdemona to the Duke of Venice. Brabantio’s main argument is that Desdemona could not have possibly fallen for Othello since he is dark-skinned and further accuses him of sorcery. Initially, the Duke agrees to support Brabantio’s request for the arrest of Desdemona’s alleged lover, but quickly changes his mind after learning that Desdemona plans to marry the admirable general, Othello. He then immediately confers power to the General and asks him to command the Venetian Army at Cyprus. Othello is aware that he is admired by the people of Venice, but still performs a lengthy speech to further gain support of his marriage to Desdemona. He starts by establishing himself as a successful