The Opera takes place at the end of the Fifteenth Century in a seaport in Cyprus.

Othello has married Desdemona against her father’s wishes.

A mercenary in the service of the Venetian Army, Othello has been sent to Cyprus to repel an invasion by the Turks.

Iago, his ensign, feels slighted because of Cassio’s promotion over him in rank.

Iago plots and manipulates events and feelings to his benefit in order to destroy Othello’s marriage and eventually his life.