Othello Essay -- essays research papers

One of the most interesting and exotic characters in the tragic play "Othello," by William Shakespeare, is "Honest" Iago. At first glance, Iago seems to be the essence of " unprovoked malignity." However, despite Iagos unquestionable malignancy, the motivation behind his actions lie more in Iagos quest for personal gain, as opposed to just being evil for evils sake. Iagos cupidity can be validated by examining his manipulation of Roderigo, Cassio and, most importantly, Othello. Iagos main interest is the destruction of Othello. The reason being that Othello has chosen an some other man, Cassio, as his second-in-command, preferring him to Iago. This resentment, come with by Iagos fabricated accusations of adultery and his blatant racism, cause Iago to despise the kindly moor, and shortly thereafter, begin to conspire against him. Because Iago is much too smart to immediately wipe out Othello, he proceeds with the arduous process of dismantling him emotional ly. Iago also knows that he must distance himself from any of the harro earningsg occurrences that transpire, so he cleverly gets other people to do his dirty work. The first to fall victim to Iagos illiberal manipulation, is the half-witted Roderigo. Iago knows Roderigo is consumed by lust for Desdemona, and would do anything to make her his own. Iago tells Roderigo that the only way to win Desdemonas love, is to make money to procure gifts for her. "...put money in thy purse.." (Act 1,...