In the tragedy, Iago is presented as an ambitious person, ready for any action for his own benefit. The ambitiousness of this character is expressed in the first verses of the tragedy: “I know my price, I am worth no worse a place. / But he, as loving his own pride and purposes” (1.1.11 —12). These phrases demonstrate that Iago is not only displeased with the other person’s success but also emphasizes his own importance. After these remarks, the character openly declares his intention to take vicious revenge: “O, sir, content you; / I follow him to serve my turn upon him” (1.1.41—42). Thus, Iago not only demonstrates his ambitions but also shows his confidence in fighting for his desires. Othello makes unbiased decisions, as demonstrated in Iago’s remarks about the appointment of a new lieutenant. The character also has a straightforward personality and is not afraid of rumors and slander: “Let him do his spite: My services which I have done the signiory / Shall out-tongue his complaints.” (1.2.18—19). These words show that the general has a strong character and accepts unflattering remarks in his direction without fear or irritation. Overall, Othello is portrayed as a person who possesses such qualities as courage, decisiveness, and incorruptibility. In terms of behavior, the general displays an almost opposite set of traits compared to Iago. Desdemona embodies a woman who is willing to take risks for love and who is not afraid of having problems with her family and others. She openly and emotionally expresses her feelings: “May trumpet to the world. My heart’s subdued / Even to the very quality of my lord / I saw Othello’s visage in his mind” (1.3.250—52). These lines portray Desdemona as a loving woman ready to defend her relationship. Furthermore, the character expresses her respect for her father: “I am hitherto your daughter: but here’s my husband, / And so much duty as my mother show’d” (1.3.185—86). Thus, Desdemona is shown as a reasonable person, as she does not deny the importance of respecting her family.
In pursuit of his personal goals, Iago manipulates Cassio without remorse, causing severe problems for Cassio and disgracing him in the eyes of the others. He persuades Cassio to drink: “Well, happiness to their sheets! Come, lieutenant, I / have a stoup of wine; and here without are a brace” (2.3.29—30). Furthermore, Iago appeals to the general’s respect: “Of Cyprus gallants that would fain have a measure to / the health of black Othello.” (2.3.31—32). These phrases demonstrate not only Iago’s sneakiness, ready to do mean actions to others but his hypocrisy as well. The character lies about his supposedly positive attitude toward Othello to carry out the foul play with greater confidence. In this context, I feel sorry for Cassio, as he finds himself dishonored and loses his position and respect in the eyes of Othello. On the one hand, Cassio may be accused of having a soft temper and an inability to refuse an offer of a drink. Nevertheless, Iago uses cunning and elaborate tricks to appeal to Cassio’s conscience and his respect for the general. Therefore, Cassio agreed to his ill-wisher’s offer, not because he wants to get drunk, but out of a desire not to offend Othello’s honor. Cassio’s actions show him to be a rather naive and, at the same time, soft-hearted individual, not ready for conflict. Moreover, Iago appears as an absolutely mean character, ready to make any moral concessions to achieve his goals and not take into account the problems of others. In general, Cassio makes me feel empathy as he is unable to unravel the manipulations of such a cunning and cruel character as Iago. At the same time, considering the character’s society and occupation, it is possible to make some assumptions. Cassio could have been persistent in his reluctance to drink and thus avoided being dishonored. However, I think that this character deserves some sympathy despite his naivety and weak nature.
Work Cited
“Othello Navigator.” Shakespeare-Navigators.com, Web.