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How does Iago convince Othello?
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Why did Iago plot to destroy Othello?
Though the most inveterate liar, Iago inspires all of the play’s characters the trait that is most lethal to Othello: trust. A detailed description and in-depth analysis of Iago in Othello.
- Iago Quotes
Although everyone, including Othello, believes that Iago is...
- Othello: Questions & Answers
The main reason Iago gives for plotting to destroy Othello...
- Iago Quotes
In his opening argument with Roderigo, Iago says that his anger stems from the fact that Othello unfairly passed him over for promotion and made Michael Cassio his lieutenant, even though Cassio, unlike Iago, has no military field experience.
The main reason Iago gives for plotting to destroy Othello is a suspicion that Othello may have had an affair with Emilia. However, Iago himself admits that he doesn’t know whether these rumors are true or not, explaining that “I know not if’t be true / But I, for mere suspicion in that kind / Will do as if for surety” (1.3.).
The action of the play takes place almost wholly in Iago’s world, where appearances, rather than truth, are what count. Because of Iago’s machinations, Cassio is perfectly placed to seem to give evidence of adultery, and Othello is perfectly placed to interpret whatever Cassio says or does as such.
Once he has gotten Othello to accept this idea, Iago then proceeds to deliver his circumstantial evidence -- a tale about a dream that Cassio had about Desdemona, and the assertion that Cassio wiped his beard with Desdemona's handkerchief.
Iago points out that Desdemona rejected a number of suitable partners before marrying Othello. He suggests that it is only natural therefore that she should be ‘recoiling to her better judgement’ (line 240) and feeling attracted to Cassio. Iago also makes up compelling stories.
Othello intervenes and demotes Cassio. Cassio appeals to Desdemona to ask Othello to reinstate him. Iago pretends to be Cassio’s friend and advisor in that. Cassio in Othello’s mind. He works hard on that and manufactures ‘evidence’ of the affair. Othello reveals his weak point, which is jealousy.
