Iago is aware that Othello’s world will be turned upside down if the relationship between, him and Desdemona disintegrate. This is Othello’s weakness that foreshadows later occurring events. Iago exploits Othello’s imagination, “Nothing, my lord; or if- I know not what”. He angers Othello by drip-feeding him with idea, however allows Othello to use his imagination. Unfortunately Othello’s mind does more harm than any of Iago’s words. The “exit” of Cassio also shows a submission of guilt. Also Iago appears to be an opportunist and he begins to wind up Othello, “Ha! I likenot that”. Cassio and Desdemona’s honesty works to their disadvantage.
The idea of jealousy rises to the surface. Iago insists that Othello should not be jealous however he does not tell him why he should be jealous. “The green eyed monster, which doth mock/ The meat it feeds on’. The jealousy begins to overcome Othello as Iago describes him as being “eaten up with passion”. The consistent metaphor used for jealousy is “cock-old”. Shakespeare has used this as it reminds the audience that jealousy makes a fool of the person it ravages.
In this scene Othello loses the ability to make rational judgements. He does not give Desdemona the benefit of the doubt suggesting the lack of trust in the relationship, “Why did I marry?” Although the audience can see that Othello does not want to believe Iago the violence and disturbing nature of his words suggest otherwise, “Villian, be sure thou prove my love a whore”. His ideas suggest that Iagos’s powers of manipulation are winning.
Iago exploits Othello’s insecurities and uses them to his advantage. Through these means he is able to distort Othello’s mind therefore his world. Iago casts a shadow upon Desdemona’s character, through which Othello is made to feel his honour is threatened, in turn Othello views his blackness in a negative in a negative light. Othello believed before that Desdemona “chose” him, however through Iago’s manipulation, he becomes aware that Desdemona sees Othello as being “fair” despite his skin. This introduces the heavily ironic themes in this play. Othello also becomes aware of his age and can see reasons why Desdemona would find a younger man more attractive. As Othello becomes more and more insecure he becomes vulnerable towards Iago, “I love thee not chose is come again”, this ensures that Othello is becoming “bound” by Iago. The idea of entrapment begins to form.
Iago plots carefully and to the Othello, details appear to fit into a picture that satisfies his reason. Within this scene the handkerchief becomes symbolic. It was the first present given to Desdemona by Othello. During this scene, in period of her anxiety for husband’s health, she drops the handkerchief. Thereafter it is picked up by Emilia, who gives it to Iago. In a soliloquy, the audience are told of Iago’s plans. He claims that the handkerchief will be proof Othello needs to reveal Desdemona’s infidelity, “The Moor already changes with my poison”.
Iago uses vulgar imagery when describing his actions. Iago states that his actions will be like the plague and will contaminate Othello’s mind with jealousy. “Burn like the mines of sulphur”, Iago wants Othello to feel like his mind is turning into hell, like he is living in hell. Iago ends the soliloquy by saying that he wants to destroy Othello’s mental equilibrium, “shall ever medicine thee to that sweet sleep”. Desdemona gives the impression that she is a character who has morals. She realises that Cassio being reinstated will be beneficial not only to himself but also to Othello. Conversely she persists to get Cassio reinstated, “Good love, call him back”, this adds suspicion in his mind.
Iago has an authority as an insider. He sets himself up as an expert on Venetian women, “I know our country disposition”. He constantly reminds Othello that Desdemona “chose” him, however she could have made a more natural choice. Also on many occasions Iago succeeds in gaining Othello’s trust as he puts on an appearance of being “honest”. In addition he pretends to be Iago’s friend, “My lord I know, I love you” Iago claims that honours Othello’s “free and noble nature” as he himself would not have such tolerance.
Iago’s views on Venetian women are that they do not show their husbands the highest idea of morality, “They dare not show their husbands. Their best conscience” He also echo’s Brabantio’s earlier words by saying, “And when she seemed to shake and fear your looks she loved them most”. Furthermore he advocates the importance of reputation, which contradicts his earlier statements.
Iago is a manipulative character in this play. Shakespeare has created a character who believes that life is a game and everyone is a pawn like in game of chess. Othello cannot overcome the jealousy which is representative of human nature and that it is easier to believe the worst than give people the benefit of the doubt.
