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False Identity Othello

714 Words3 Pages

James J Nollman English Composition II Professor Townsend
12 July 23
False Identity in Shakespeare’s Othello
Shakespeare’s play, Othello, explores the true nature of identity in humans and highlights the deceitful essence of appearances. Iago’s role of antagonist is truly captivating and mystifying as he shifts his personality seamlessly throughout the entirety of the play. In the opening scene, Iago utters a contradicting statement regarding his own character, “I am not what I am”(Othello, 1.1. 65), hinting at his back and forth identity in the near future. This line perfectly encapsulates the central theme of the play: the complexities of character and the deceptive nature of appearances. Iago’s dialogue holds significant truth throughout …show more content…

During the play, he is able to deceive his peers through various different methods of control. This assertion of dominance doesn’t stop at only Othello; it stretches much further, even using it on his own trusted friend, Cassio. When Iago said “I am not who I am”, he shows the unreliability of his true character. His equivocal nature allows him to seamlessly change his positions and adapt to varying situations like a chameleon. Possessing the ability to hide his true intentions, Iago manages to manipulate those around him to serve his own ill-minded tendencies. This mind-boggling line outlines the dangerous ability he possesses to deceive others at his will, making him one of the more intriguing characters of the …show more content…

It gives rise to questions about his motivations and serves as a warning that people who appear to be truthful are often troubled by internal conflicts. Sadly, we don’t have the ability to look into someone’s mind; however, it’s safe to assume that Iago has other issues that plague him often.
The phrase “I am not who I am” exemplifies the traditional conflict over self-definition. Shakespeare explores the multifacetedness of our innermost being through the character of Iago. There is an intriguing duplex to the contrast between Iago’s portrayal of himself to the world and his personality within. This clash between good and evil, creativeness and destruction, and light and shadow exhibits the true complexity of human nature. Iago’s remark goes to show that outward appearances can be deceiving and people are made up of many opposing characteristics instead of one singular

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