Shakespeares Othello - The Character of Iago Essay

The Character of Iago In Othello, by William Shakespeare, one of the most intriguing characters is Iago. At first glance he seems to be pure evil, but I think his actions are much more complex. Through thought-out words and actions Iago is able to manipulate others to do things that benefit him and move him closer to his goals. This character is consumed with envy and deceit that leads to theft and killing. Iago is the main driving force in this play, pushing Othello and the other characters towards their tragic endings. Iago is not your ordinary villain. He is smart and an expert judge of peoples character and uses this to his advantage. For example, he knows Roderigo is in love with Desdemona and figures†¦show more content†¦Roderigo remarks. That thou, Iago, who hast had my purse as if the strings were thine. Throughout the play Iago leads Roderigo by the collar professing his hate (of) the Moor and telling Roderigo to make money so that he can give gifts to Desdemona to win her heart. Throughout the whole play Iago is taking those gifts intended for Desdemona and keeping them for himself. Roderigo eventually begins to question the honesty of Iago saying, I think it is scurvy, and begin to find myself fopped in it. When faced with this accusation, Iago simply offers that killing Cassio will aid his cause and Roderigo blindly falls for it. I have no great devotion to the deed, and yet he has given me satisfying reason, says a foolish Roderigo. And with this deed, Roderigo is le ad to his own death by the hands of honest Iago. Cassio, like Roderigo, follows Iago blindly, thinking the whole time Iago is trying to help him. In reality Iago is plotting the demise of his supposed friend Cassio. On the night of Cassios watch, Iago convinces him to take another drink knowing that it will make him very drunk. Cassio follows along despite saying, Ill dot, but it dislikes me. A crafty Iago is able toShow MoreRelated The Character of Iago in Shakespeares Othello Essay1145 Words   |  5 PagesThe Character of Iago       The old clichà © One bad apple ruins the bunch is what enters ones mind when discussing the villainous, deceitful, protagonist Iago in Shakespeares tragedy Othello. It is amazing how one person alone can completely destroy, or deteriorate a group of good natured, trusting, loyal peoples lives in a matter of days- three to be exact. What is the motive behind Iagos heinous, selfish acts, one may ask? 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The play of Othello is the finest example of Shakespeare’s poetic and narrative style. Thus, Shakespeare is known as the most influential dramatist whose tra gedies found the way to interact with the audience.Shakespeare’s Othello is about