Othello Character Analysis- Iago
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- Category: English: Plays
- Date Submitted: 04/10/2013 03:36 AM
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Character Analysis
IAGO
Iago is the antagonistic master of deception throughout the play, “Othello.” His thirst for vengeance appears to be unquenchable. We learn early on, Cassio was given a lieutenant promotion despite his inexperience, over Iago, by Othello. Enraged and out for blood (literally AND figuratively), he plots the downfall of all who caused him turmoil. But, exactly how does he do this? Iago is one of the most vile, cunning, and shrewd characters I’ve had the displeasure of meeting throughout my studies in literature.
One of the center traits defining Iago is “The green eyed monster,” jealousy. But it’s deeper than that, its envy. He is envious of Cassio’s leadership position and one of the horrid seven deadly sins consume him throughout the play. What exactly is the difference between envy and jealousy? You see, Iago feeds on other character’s jealousy, because he is envious. For instance, we see him manipulate Othello into believing Desdemona is adulterous (Othello’s jealousy), because he wants what Cassio was given (Iago’s envy.) In my opinion, envy is one of the most self-destructive qualities a man can possess. I know that first hand.
Another quality possessed by Iago, is the “gift of gab,” you might say. Weaseling his way in and out of the heads of every character in this play seems to be his niche. We see countless examples of this throughout the play. One example may be the manipulation of Rodrigo into having a confrontation with Cassio. Iago tends to play both sides of the field quite often, and this steady game plan seems to work swimmingly for him. This way, no one suspects him of anything.
Finally, Iago happens to have an extreme narcissistic complex. This one may be a tad harder to see at first, but very apparent while looking in depth at Iago’s actions. Narcissists often have a lust for adequacy and power. Iago feels inadequate about losing his power position to someone else. This may also be combined with an undiagnosed...
IAGO
Iago is the antagonistic master of deception throughout the play, “Othello.” His thirst for vengeance appears to be unquenchable. We learn early on, Cassio was given a lieutenant promotion despite his inexperience, over Iago, by Othello. Enraged and out for blood (literally AND figuratively), he plots the downfall of all who caused him turmoil. But, exactly how does he do this? Iago is one of the most vile, cunning, and shrewd characters I’ve had the displeasure of meeting throughout my studies in literature.
One of the center traits defining Iago is “The green eyed monster,” jealousy. But it’s deeper than that, its envy. He is envious of Cassio’s leadership position and one of the horrid seven deadly sins consume him throughout the play. What exactly is the difference between envy and jealousy? You see, Iago feeds on other character’s jealousy, because he is envious. For instance, we see him manipulate Othello into believing Desdemona is adulterous (Othello’s jealousy), because he wants what Cassio was given (Iago’s envy.) In my opinion, envy is one of the most self-destructive qualities a man can possess. I know that first hand.
Another quality possessed by Iago, is the “gift of gab,” you might say. Weaseling his way in and out of the heads of every character in this play seems to be his niche. We see countless examples of this throughout the play. One example may be the manipulation of Rodrigo into having a confrontation with Cassio. Iago tends to play both sides of the field quite often, and this steady game plan seems to work swimmingly for him. This way, no one suspects him of anything.
Finally, Iago happens to have an extreme narcissistic complex. This one may be a tad harder to see at first, but very apparent while looking in depth at Iago’s actions. Narcissists often have a lust for adequacy and power. Iago feels inadequate about losing his power position to someone else. This may also be combined with an undiagnosed...