Othello - Character study of Iago

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Othello

In ‘Othello’, Iago works to bring about the downfall of the characters that he hates, particularly Othello and Michael Cassio. In order to do this, he uses not only the weaknesses of his victims, but their strengths and good qualities as well.

Iago says this about Desdemona:

“So will I turn her virtue into pitch,

And out of her own goodness makes the net

That shall enmesh them all” (Act 2 Scene 3)

Iago’s victims have virtues, which he uses to undermine them and plot their downfall. Othello is a noble and heroic gentleman. He is open and honest. He has a trusting nature and he is romantic. Othello is a brave person who is not person of words but sorts problems out by fighting or by action.

Iago says: “The Moor is of a free and open nature,

That thinks men honest that but seem to be so,

And will as tenderly be led by the nose as asses are” (Act 1 Scene3)

Othello is courageous and fearless.

“The Moor, nowbe’t I endure him not,

Is of a constant, loving, noble nature” (Act 2 Scene 1)

Othello has self-control over his passionate nature. When it breaks, nothing can stop Othello’s rage. Othello is quick thinking and self-reliant.

He decides and acts instantly, without reflection.

Desdomona has loyalty for her friends “Makes her plead for Cassio’s reinstatement and therefore increases Othello’s suspicions of her unfaithfulness”

Desdemona: I assure thee,

If I do vow a friendship,

I’ll perform it to the last article (Act 3 Scene 3)

Desdemona has kindness and goodness, which makes her unsuspecting of Iago’s evil plans.

Iago says: “She is so free, so kind, so apt, so blessed a disposition, she holds it as a vice in her goodness not to more she is requested” (Act 2 Scene 3)

She has love for Othello “my love doth so approve him that even his stubbornness, his checks and frowns… have gone grace and favour in them” (Act 4 Scene 2)

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Iago uses his victim’s weaknesses as well, so that there is some evidence in the play for each with the exception of Desdemona, who, being to some extent responsible for the events that overtake them. In other words, Iago also exploits their weaknesses to bring about their downfall.

Michael Cassio is popular with the ladies. He is smooth and sophisticated and has a social charm and grace.

Iago: ”He hath a person and smooth dispose to be suspected, framed to make women false” (Act 1 Scene 3)

Cassio enjoys drinking and often has too much. He is stupid to ...

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