Essay On Iago A Villain

956 Words2 Pages

Cory Pontarollo
ENGL1202
Professor Zahodnick
14 February 2014
A Villainess Villain
William Shakespeare developed a character in one of his plays by the name of Iago. Iago, in the play Othello, is a very intriguing antagonist. Iago is referred to as “honest”, however he is the complete opposite, as throughout the entire play, he manipulates, lies, steals, cheats, and murders to get what he whatever he wants. All in all, what makes Iago such a ruthless and amoral character in is his ability to manipulate? Iago uses manipulation towards anyone who gets in his way of his goals. Whether it is convincing Rodrigo to forfeit over gold, or if it is convincing Othello of Desdamona’s innocence, Iago was a catalyst that begun a story for the ages. Throughout the story, Iago is able to create an alternate persona that conveys villainy and creates a façade for himself through manipulation, discrimination, and unfaithfulness.
Throughout all of Iago’s manipulation in the play, he acknowledges the roll by stating, “And what’s he then that says I play the villain…” (II.iii.296). After providing advice for Cassio when he was stripped of his job by Othello, Iago offers Cassio advice in ways he could obtain his title back after his drunk outburst. Iago manipulates Cassio into going to talk to Desdamona so she can preach to Othello, hoping to allow Cassio to retrieve his rightful place as lieutenant. This is all a part of Iago’s plan, and this soliloquy demonstrates how he views himself throughout everything that occurred thus far. Iago says with confusion “and what’s he then that says I play the villain...” (II.iii.296). Iago is saying within his soliloquy, who can say that I am evil when my advice is so good? He also says asks himself how is he evil ...

... middle of paper ...

...ith his daughter, Desdamona (white ewe). Iago by describing Othello as a black ram, portrays him as an animal-like figure, not a human being, all because he is a black man. During the Elizabethan time, interracial relationships were frowned upon. As a result, establishing the idea that Othello is an animal exposes racism towards the audience. (The way Iago manipulates Othello is by playing the race card. In reality, he is trying to break up Othello and Desdamona. Othello see’s Iago as in honorable man)
Outline for the rest of the paper:
• How does Iago affect the story line of the play o Manipulation, dishonesty
 Quote to explain
• See if there is any more possible racism examples regarding Iago o Explain, how it connects to the story, and Iago villainy
• Conclusion o How villainy truly impacts the story o Explain how Iago is truly a villain o Was Iago successful?

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