Destroy Othello Essay

Iago feels that he was passed over for a promotion to lieutenant and resents Cassio, the bare-assed lieutenant. He also harbors a potential grudge against Othello, who promoted Cassio. Iago explains to Roderigo that Cassio was appointed in spite of the fact that three important Venetians had asked Othello to promote Iago. Iago states I know my price, I am worth no worse a place (1. 1. 11), which shows that he felt that he deserved the promotion.He resents that he has fought alongside Othello some(prenominal) times in battle, yet Cassio a mere counter-caster(1. 1. 31), who has never served in battle, was made lieutenant. He holds Othello responsible for his being passed over, and mocks Othellos race and character. Iagos conduct reveals his malicious nature. His statement I am not what I am (1. 1. 65) summarizes the deceitfulness of his character. Iago suggests to the heartbroken Roderigo that he Call up her father, / stir him make after him, poison his delight, / Proclaim him in t he streets (1. 1. 67-69). This shows Iagos spiteful nature.He suggests that Roderigo not only disturb Barbantio in the middle of the night, alone that he publicly announce that Desdemona has eloped, thus subjecting Barbantio and his family to shame. While calling discover to Barbantio, Iago watchs in the dark and does not reveal his identity. Here, as in the rest of the play, Iago acts an instigator, hidden in the shadows, yet still managing to manipulate those nearly him. In speaking to Barbantio, Iago insults him, and describes the relationship of Desdemona in derogatory and pornographic terms. subsequently doing his best to make Barbantio panic, Iago returns to Othello and pretends to be loyal. However, he instructs Roderigo to tell Barbantio exactly where Desdemona and Othello bottomland be found. Iagos conduct reveals his ability to control others, while they remain unaware of his influence. This is shown by the fact that he uses Roderigo to anger Barbantio, whom he uses to suppress Othello. At this point, Barbantio and Othello are oblivious to Iagos devious nature. Iago callously betrays Othello still pretends to be loyal to him.