Othello - Iago is an evil manipulator.

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Iago is an evil manipulator

The statement ‘Iago is an evil manipulator in my opinion is true. I see Iago as psychologically astute, deceiving and a misanthrope. His sadistic character hurts everyone in a web of deceit. Iago is Shakespeare’s most plausible and intriguing villains.

The main themes in this play are appearance and reality, love, hate and jealousy.

I intend to focus on Iago and see how his character changes and how his plan unfolds in scenes Act 1 scene 3, act 2 scene 3 and act 3 scenes 3 and 4.

At the end of Act 1 scene 3, we are aware of Iago’s jealousy of Othello and he reveals his scheme to destroy him as his envious ways lead him to manipulation. ‘I hate the moor, and it is thought abroad that ‘twixt my sheets he’s done in my office. I know not if’t be true yet I, for mere suspicion in that kind, will do as if for surety.’ (Lines 69-72)

‘After some time, to abuse Othello’s ear that he is too familiar with his wife…’ (Lines 77-78)

This is all shown in a soliloquy. The use of soliloquies gives the audience a chance to see what a character is really thinking. They reveal the character’s thoughts, motives or state of mind at that point in the play. Shakespeare uses this dramatic convention to create dramatic irony. As the audience knows what is going to happen, it makes them feel uncomfortable.

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In Act 2 scene 3, Iago then plans to make Cassio drunk and quarrelsome. ‘If I can fasten but one cup upon him, with that he hath drunk tonight already, he’ll be as full of quarrel and offence as my young mistress’ dog.’ (Lines 40-44)

 Iago then tells Roderigo to go after Cassio, knowing this will cause a fight. This riot will ruin Cassio’s prospects. Cassio gets into a fight with Roderigo as Iago expected. When Othello finds out about this fight he dismisses Cassio from office. Iago later on suggests that Cassio should approach Desdemona about his reinstatement. ...

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