Othello 1.2

The scene starts off with Iago warning Othello about how Brabantio is going to come and try to divorce him and Desdemona. Othello rebukes him by saying that he isn't afraid of Brabantio because his love for Desdemona is strong and his merits/social status will out-weigh whatever he is accused of. Then Cassio and some officers come and tell Othello that he is needed by the senate and Duke. But all of a sudden Brabantio comes with Roderigo and calls Othello a thief. The encounter escalates until swords are drawn but the situation eventually calms down and both parties agree to bring up the matter to the Duke.

I find the politics very interesting in this scene. Brabantio is able to call a lot of officers and friends of his to pressure Othello. He says in the previous scene to call people from all the houses to gather weapons. It is interesting how much influence and power he has to be able to call people who are not necessarily close or related to him. Also, Brabantio says that he is able to bring up the matter directly to the Duke. The Duke is one of the most influential people in the city and Brabantio seems to have the authority to bring up a private matter to him. 

How is the Duke going to respond to Brabantio accusing Othello of charming Desdemona with magics and drugs?
I think the Duke will be skeptical of Othello charming Desdemona without her consent. I believe this because the Duke obviously knows about Othello's character and achievements. Even though Othello is black, the Duke is likely able to see past the stereotype and judge Othello fairly. 


http://study.com/cimages/multimages/16/doge_of_venice.jpg

The Duke is an absolute authority in Venice. His role so far has been small but his power and influence are shown in how he acts and makes decisions. He is able to judge and reconcile Brabantio and Othello and no one is able to dispute him. Even Brabantio had no choice but to accept his decision of letting Desdemona marry Othello.