Act 3, Scene 1 Summary

Cassio brings in some musicians, perhaps to cheer himself. Othello's clown comes in and makes some rude comments about their music. Once the clown has sent the musicians away, Cassio pleads for him to ask Desdemona for a little time to talk.

Iago enters after the clown goes off. Cassio asks him if he might entreat Emilia to put in a good word for him with Desdemona. Iago sends Emilia out to Cassio. Emilia tells Cassio that Othello and Desdemona are already discussing the matter, and that Desdemona is pleading Cassio's case. She says Othello is torn: on one hand, he thinks he has been humiliated by Cassio's drunken ruckus; on the other hand, he truly loves Cassio and would have him back in a moment. Cassio begs Emilia to secure him some time alone with Desdemona to talk with her...