How Is Iago Presented In Othello

In this passage, Iago has been asked to take care of Desdemona on their trip to Cyprus. Iago tells Roderigo to take his “purse” with him so that he can try to win Desdemona over. Iago is planning to become the Lieutenant by removing Cassio from that position. Iago also plans on taking revenge on Othello. This occurs in the following act when Iago causes trouble for all.

When Iago says “Thus do I ever” he boasts about himself and this reveals that Roderigo has left and he shows his true feelings about Roderigo. This feeling intensifies when he calls Roderigo a “snipe” which is a bird that is unable to fly. He is using Roderigo as an example of how clever and smart he is at deceiving people and he continues to boast about that. The word “ever” clarifies that this is not the first time Iago has deceived and used someone.

This reflects upon the character of Iago. Iago cares only about himself and his well-being due to the re-occurring words “I, my, mine”. Iago is a very ego-centric man and the use of these words reflects his character.

The passage also reveals the hatred by Iago towards Othello. He says “I hate the Moor” which reveals the purpose of Iago’s revenge which is on personal terms. He thinks that Othello has slept with his wife because he says “it is thought abroad that ‘twixt my sheets” which reveals the suspicion he has. When he said “for mere suspicion” he contemplates that suspicion is the only truth and that suspicion alone is enough to justify against revenge.

Iago in the play is a well sought out man. People consider him as “honest Iago” which is a dramatic irony because the audience knows it but the characters in the play don’t know that. When Iago says “he holds me well” he is well respected and well known. So this makes it easier for him to execute his plan and move forward with