Character Analysis of Iago Essay

In William Shakespeares tragedy Othello, one would infer that the main character is Othello himself. However the argument could be made that Iago plays that role successfully, through his greed, manipulation and amorality. It is those characteristics that make Iago the perfect catalyst for this story line. He uses his linguistic prowess to influence others, for the sole purpose of advancing his own goals. At the same time he is directing the rest of the cast down a dark and tragic path.

Self-preservation and self-promotion are Iagos main goals. His amorality allows his him to embark on accomplishing these ideals by lying, stealing and eventually murdering the ones around him. He is an artist of words, able to manipulate people with his silver tongue. In the beginning of Act I the reader gets their first glimpse at Iago in action, as he is confronted by Roderigo about his misappropriation of the funds that were given to him to win Roderigo favor with Desdemona. Iago is able to skirt the issue and convince him of where his loyalties lie,

I follow to serve my turn upon him.

We cannot all be masters, nor all masters

Cannot truly followed. You shall mark

Many a duteous and knee-crooking knave (1.1. 43-47)

Iago persuades Roderigo to believe in his convoluted scheme to exact revenge on Othello. To keep his plans on track and to essential keep the plot progressing he convinces Roderigo that he should wake Desdemonas father, Brabantio, to inform him of his daughters nuptials.

Iago is very careful when choosing the words that he utilizes. He knows which words will advance him with each character; never does he use the same approach with two different people. For example when he and Roderigo go to wake Brabantio he plays on Brabantios racism by using phases such as Even now, now, very now, an old black ram/Is tupping your white ewe. Arise, Arise! (1.1.92-93) and

Zounds, sir, you are one of those that will not serve God, if the

Devil bid you. Because we come to do you service and you think

we are ruffians, youll have your daughter covered with a Barbary

horse, youll have your nephews neigh to you, youll have

coursers for cousins and jennets for germans. (1.1.17-21)

There is a very different tone when he tries to convince Othello that his wife has been unfaithful,

I am glad of this, for now I shall have reason

To show the love and duty that I bear you

With franker spirit. Therefore, as I am bound,

Receive it from me. I speak not yet of proof.

Look to your wife; observe her well with Cassio;

Wear your eye thus, not jealous nor secure. (3.3.216-221)