What is the Significance of the word "Honest" in Othello?

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Suhila Malik

What is the Significance of the word “Honest” in Othello?

Honesty is by far, one of the most important factors in Othello, even though there is actually very little honesty in the play. As Othello is mainly about deception, trust and relationships, honesty becomes a main part of it, as it is the foundation of a trustful and strong relationship. By using the word honest Shakespeare creates a contrast between the good and bad, just like in Othello

Honest, defined as being truthful and sincere [The Little Oxford dictionary, Sixth Edition], has many connotations of which include innocence, loyalty and trustworthiness, and when associated with a character we see a “perfect” character (i.e. like the hero). However, the term is used many times and mostly applied to Iago, the villain, the most dishonest and cunning character in the play. To Iago honesty was to be twisted to his own desire. In Othello, a character described as honest is seen to be trustworthy. Iago’s character has the strength to manipulate, persuade and brainwash the other characters for his need to take revenge, as he is seen as honest and trustworthy, and also referred to as “honest Iago” [1.3.290] on several occasions by many characters, especially Cassio and Othello, on whom the conspiracy is against. It seems like the meaning of the word has been ridiculed by adding it to Iago’s name, (honest Iago), and could be referred to as an oxy-moron, making it a very memorable phrase.

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“O, that’s an honest fellow” sums up the trust bestowed upon Iago. By using the word ‘honest’, Shakespeare stresses that Iago and Othello’s companionship is very strong, especially in Act3. Another reason why the word honest is very significant, is that when Othello refers to Iago as honest we know that Othello is not as wise as he thinks, and has not realised Iago’s scheme, which also shows how cunning and clever Iago is.

If he had not been seen as ‘honest’, the story would not have a chance to develop, as the plot is based around ...

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