To what extent does Act 3 Scene 3 represent a turning point in Shakespeare's 'Othello' ?
To what extent is Act 3 Scene 3 a turning point for the character of Iago in Shakespeare’s ‘Othello?’
Act three scene three is a turning point for the character of Iago as his plan of re-gaining power is coming together and working to his expectations. The conflict between Iago and Othello reaches crisis point at this stage of the play and provides for an effective, intense scene.
Iago’s manipulation of Othello is subtle, yet effective. In no way does he himself say directly that Desdemona and Cassio are having an affair, or say a bad word about Cassio. Instead, he only insinuates it and uses his sense of tone to plant a seed of doubt in Othello’s mind. Iago, although having a clear hatred for Othello, has to pretend to like him in order to gain his trust and be looked upon as an honest man. Iago is aware that his actions are “evil” but it is suggested that he takes great satisfaction within this.
“Divinity oh hell, when devils will the blackest sins put on, they do suggest at first with heavenly shows, as I do now”
His use of tone shows this feeling of satisfaction and suggests that he is almost proud of his actions and to the success of his plot. Iago makes Othello un-easy by saying “I like not that” about Cassio’s exit; in which Iago describes as “guilty-like”, extending Othello’s doubt once more.
