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Iago's Insecurity In Othello

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One of the most well-known Shakespearian tragedies is Othello. It is believed that it was written in 1603. This play has been put under scrutiny since its publication because it touches universal feelings of jealousy, love, hatred and sexual desire. In this play, love is defeated by jealousy and hatred and the outcome is the death of the protagonist, Othello, and his lover and wife, Desdemona. Critics have been arguing whether the responsibility should be placed on the protagonist, Othello, or on the antagonist, Iago. Many critics believe that Iago’s actions and plans result in the tragic end of the lovers while others argue that Othello’s insecurities and weaknesses are the driving forces to such a tragedy. These insecurities and weaknesses are coupled with social and cultural superiority of Venetians over Othello, the Moor. So, different views have been presented on the tragic death of Othello and Desdemona. This essay discusses Iago’s behavior, his manipulative character, his motives and how he represents the Venetian prejudices and intolerance towards Othello. Iago, the cunning character, is the force that propels Othello’s actions. His humor is depicted by Bradly as not being funny and never raises a smile because his humour is intended for destructive purposes (1904). For example, when he tells Desdemona’s father that his daughter has married Othello, he uses his humour to provoke the feelings of hatred and revenge of the father. Iago says:
Zounds, sir, you’re

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