Iago By William Shakespeare s Othello - 946 Words

Iago’s selfish ways may stem from deep-rooted envy. Cassio, a handsome, well-mannered, likeable strategist was promoted above Iago, despite having no practical experience; unlike Iago who has been Othello’s ensign on the field for many years. Iago’s contempt for Cassio’s â€Å"bookish theoric† as â€Å"mere prattle, without practise† is grounded in jealousy, and his dismissive way of comparing strategy to fighting on the battlefield reveals his dislike of Cassio early in the first scene of the play. In this way, he also exhibits envy towards Othello for his high rank, but this could be primarily due to Iago’s inherent racism. Aside from this vocational envy, Iago also exhibits sexual jealousy. He believes that both Othello and Cassio have â€Å"done†¦show more content†¦Leo tries to cause mistrust by lying about the timings of their meetings. He also plots to end the relationship altogether by leaving so he cannot take messages for them anymore. He assumes that without his presence their desire for each other will cease. To a lesser extent Leo deceives them when he pretends he doesn’t know they’re in love. It is unclear why this is the case, but perhaps he romanticises his role and wishes to be a messenger for star-crossed lovers. Iago’s tendency to deceive and manipulate every character he meets in the play is decidedly Machiavellian. He is known as â€Å"honest Iago† – in actuality, he is aggressive, wants to hurt others. He convinces Othello that Desdemona is sleeping with Cassio and intends to marry him – later persuades him to smother her in their marital bed rather than poisoning her. He tells Cassio that Desdemona will help him get his job back. He also doesn’t tell his wife of his suspicions of infidelity. Iago’s use of language is indicative– he alters his speech patterns depending on his objectives in a conversation and who he is talking to (blank verse vs iambic pentameter). Othello is a â€Å"black ram† married to a â€Å"white ewe†, and is of a higher rank with more respect. Stanley sees right through Blanche - She tries to flirt and compliment Stanley as â€Å"a real man†, despite her distaste for him. He thinks she lies about everything (and