Honest Iago
Honest IagoHonest Iago
Perhaps the most interesting and exotic character in the play “Othello,” by William Shakespeare, is “Honest” Iago. From some further reading I have done it seem that the popular opinion is that Iago is Shakespeare’s most evil character. Through what seem like carefully thought-out words and actions, though they are more the quick witted trait of a con man, Iago is able to influence others to do things to his benefit and for his “sport” or entertainment . He is the main driving force in the play, pushing Othello and everyone else towards their tragic end. Some one in class made mention that Iago directs the play and I could not agree more.
Iago is the quintessential villain. The role he plays is rather unique and complex; Iago is smart and he is a skilled judge of people and their characters and uses this to his advantage. For example, he knows Roderigo is in love with Desdemona and figures that he would do anything to have her as his own. Iago says about Roderigo, “Thus do I ever make my fool my purse.” [Act I, Scene III,] By playing on his hopes, Iago is able to swindle money from Roderigo, making himself a profit, while using Roderigo to further his devious goals. He also thinks quickly on his feet and is able to improvise whenever something unexpected occurs. When Cassio takes hold of Desdemona’s hand before the arrival of the Moor Othello, Iago says, “With as little a web as this will I ensnare as great a fly as Cassio.” [Act II, Scene I, Line]
Being as smart...
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