Is Iago Secretive In Othello

1) Is Iago secretive?

Yes, Iago is shown to be secretive which is seen through his soliloquy’s, and how he is perceived to be an honest and loyal soldier by other character in the play. Iago states to Roderigo that, “I am not what I am” (1.1.66). Here, Iago attempts to inform Roderigo as well as the audience that he hides behind a masked character, and his true self is not what others view him as, thus showing his secretive personality. Furthermore, Iago uses his secretiveness to deceive others, such as Roderigo. After Roderigo leaves to sell his land, Iago proudly states, “thus do I ever make my fool my purse; For I mine own gain’d knowledge should profane if I would time expend with such a snipe” (1.3.374-376). Iago is able to deceive Roderigo

He convinces Roderigo to, “anger Cassio, either by speaking too loud or tainting his discipline” (2.1.257-258). Iago uses Roderigo’s lust for Desdemona in order to convince him to do tasks he normally would not, while Iago is able to benefit from them without having to do much work. In this case, Iago plans to obtain Cassio’s position by getting him fired, and uses Roderigo to keep attention away from himself. Moreover, Iago is able to use these traits to strengthen his relationship with Othello by seeming loyal. Othello chooses Iago to bring Desdemona safely to Cyprus as, “a man he is of honesty and trust. To his conveyance I assign my wife” (1.3.281-282). Iago has slowly manipulated Othello into believing he is honest, and trustworthy which is why Othello praises him, and assigns him with important

While informing Brabantio about Othello and Desdemona’s marriage, Iago shouts, “an old black ram is tupping your white ewe” (1.1.90). Iago degrades both Desdemona and Othello to the status of animals, and expresses racism through the use of colours. Additionally, Iago’s lack of morals are important to his character as they help him develop plans, and strengthen his mindset. He thinks to himself that he will, “make the Moor thank [him], love [him], and reward [him]” (2.2.297). Since Iago lacks many morals he has strong opinions about others, and has confidence in himself and that his plans will work out in his