What Typical Aspects of Iago’s Character and of Shakespeares Methods of Presenting a Character Are Found in Othello?

In the tragedy of Othello, Iago draws out the true nature of Othello, inch by inch. He tangles the Moor into a web of lies, hatred and deceit- which leads to devastating consequences. Reputation is the most outstanding theme in this play as it visibly classifies characters and it defines relationships between each of them. At the conclusion of Act 2, Shakespeare uses various methods to present Iago to the audience, and reveal his ideas and thoughts, the most effective being a soliloquy.

“Motiveless malignance" are the words academic writer Samuel Coleridge uses to describe Iago and his actions. The audience gains a fascination for Iago due to his most terrible exploits which are stemmed from his utter lack of convincing motivation for his actions. Iago represents another theme in Othello ‘Appearance vs. Reality’, as Iago is often referred to as "honest Iago" when really he is a cruel and lying man. This shows his talent at deceiving other characters so that not only do they not suspect him, but they count on him as being the most trustworthy.

Shakespeare reveals the inner thoughts of antagonist Iago through soliloquies at the conclusion of some acts, including Act 2. These soliloquies warn the audience of Iago’s plots to bring down the Moor and provide a break in the flow of the play so that the audience can reflect on the true nature of Iago. In the soliloquy at the end of Act 2, Iago tells us of his plan.

“I’ll pour this pestilence into his ear” (Sc. 3, Act 2)

This exposes the idea to the audience that Iago wants his superior, Othello, killed, and he wants to be responsible for his death.

Shakespeare creates a confusing character by concealing Iago’s true motives in his speech at the end of Act 2. During his speech he tells the audience that he is a noble soldier who is reliable and able to be trustworthy. This is the reason why Iago fools every character in the play Othello because he had mastered the skills needed to disguise his plans of evil.

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