Iago's Jealousy Character Analysis

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In William Shakespeare’s play, The Tragedy of Othello, the power of jealousy rips relationships apart and destroys the peace amongst a once pleasant society. The principle character for the aggravation of the other characters is Iago. Iago is angry at Othello for not appointing him as his lieutenant and refuses to let it go. For selfish reasons, Iago plots an evil schemes of revenge towards Othello by making him, and everyone necessary to bring Othello down. In the beginning of the play, Iago tells us of his plan against Othello. Cassio was promoted by Othello to lieutenant instead of Iago which is why Iago despises him. Iago says, “I follow him to serve my turn upon him. We cannot all be masters, nor all masters cannot be truly followed.”

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