William Shakespeare’s Othello has touched on a number of various topics and issues. But the way treason and schemes are depicted is probably the most interesting part of the play. This problem is perfectly represented through Iago’s words and actions as he adapts to people’s weaknesses. In this post, I will review how the antagonist uses the characters’ virtues against them and why he successfully manipulates everyone around him.
The first striking and concerning features of his personality are his false honesty and ability of reading people. In front of Othello, Iago pretends to be a loving and a caring friend (Shakespeare, 43). While interacting with Cassio, the villain plays the false role of a helpful mentor. This, in turn, helps Iago find out about the love and affection the two men have for their wives. Said information is what the antagonist later uses against them by depicting detailed false scenarios of their spouses cheating on them.
Aside from him enjoying other people’s sufferings while pretending to be innocent and insightful, it is not rational to say that there is no motive in those actions. Iago is jealous of Cassio’s promotion to lieutenant, making the man hate him and the titular character (Shakespeare, 65). The villain’s surprising knowledge of other people’s psychology allows him to trick Othello successfully until the very end. As a result, not even Iago’s wife knows who he really is, as he constantly portrays different characters in front of various people.
In conclusion, Iago’s will to use the characters’ weaknesses against them is demonstrated in him exploiting Cassio’s and Othello’s fear of adultery. The man successfully plays different roles in front of everyone while being seen as sincere and innocent. Cassio and Othello have a deep affection for their wives. This virtue is what the antagonist successfully turns into the men’s weakness. Although Iago enjoys using other people’s flaws and sufferings, it is not right to say he lacks motives. The antagonist is jealous of Cassio’s promotion, which turns Iago against him and the titular character. This, in turn, is what perfectly defines a villain who is so mysterious and dishonest that even his wife is unaware of his true personality.
Work Cited
Shakespeare, William. Othello: The Moor of Venice. United Kingdom, n.p, 1889.