At first glance Iago's character seems to be pure evil and from the language used by Iago in the first act, there is much that can be deduced about his character. Iago plays with language to gain a desired effect. He is able to take words out of their context to produce startling passages. Early on, Iago fills Brabantio with an immediacy through use of vivid, obscene proverbs such as “making the beast with two backs”. What this shows is Iago twisting objects to suit his whim, and also his confidence in the power of language. At the same time, Iago makes use of language to urge others on. His use of imperatives such as “Rouse him, make after him, poison his delight, proclaim him in the street, incense her kinsmen” demonstrate his ability to influence and control others through his potent use of language.
“Honest Iago” is not your ordinary villain. Iago is extremely quick witted and cunning and this is apparent right from the opening scenes of the play.
He is an excellent judge of character and uses this to his advantage. An early example of Iago’s disregard for a person supposed to be his friend is his conversation with Roderigo. After which Iago says of Roderigo, "Thus do I ever make my fool my purse." (Act I, Scene III, Line 355). Iago knows that Roderigo is in love with Desdemona and figures that he would do anything to have her for himself. By playing on Roderigo’s hopes, Iago is able to swindle money and jewels from Roderigo, making himself a substantial profit, while using Roderigo to forward his other goals.
Iago shows no remorse in manipulating an innocent such as Roderigo to gain an advantage for himself and this emphasises the characters traits that were portrayed early on. Due to such characteristics Iago, in the opening scenes, comes across as very manipulative, head strong, cunning and many would say to be that of a metaphorical puppeteer, ie; perhaps not always being the most prominant character in scenarios, but yet always controlling the situation from the shadows.
Siobhán Stewart