What Is Iago Astute Psychology

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Is Iago an artist and an astute psychologist? If so, how does he use these qualities for his evil schemes?
In William Shakespeare’s play “Othello”, the portrayal of Iago’s character reveals him as an artist and an astute psychologist underneath the villain he is commonly accused of being and the extent to which he is able to use these qualities reveals the crucial part the human mind and psychology plays in our daily lives. Iago’s effective use of the characteristics that are similar to an artist and a psychologist towards his evil schemes shows he is a tactful villain. The advantage he gains from these qualities are materialised within the play in three different ways. Firstly, He sees the future and plans ahead; Also, he has a gift of understanding …show more content…

The importance of this quality can be witnessed throughout the play and gives Iago a significant advantage over his enemies. In the case of Othello, his quote ‘Rude am I in speech” (act 1 scene 3 line 81) reveals him to be doubtful of himself which helps Iago in recognising Othello’s weakness in the form of paranoia and doubt. In recognising this, Iago is able to manipulate him throughout the play. This is most notable in act 3 when Iago states, ‘She did deceive her father, marrying you’ (act 3 scene 3 line 206). Even though what Iago says is true, the time it was delivered, and tone of the statement suggests an implied meaning underneath of Desdemona being capable of deceiving Othello proving his creativity in delivering lines, resembling a singer. Iago also realises Othello’s interpretation of the statement will magnify the implied meaning due to his paranoia and doubt. Iago, therefore, achieves his goal of planting doubt in Othello’s mind. Iago’s manipulation isn’t limited to Othello. It reaches Desdemona. Similarly, Iago is able to use Othello’s weaknesses against him in various situations. Through the artistic manipulation of situations, Iago is able to use others’ frailties in order to generate an outcome best suited to

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