Iago

Paper Summary:

This paper examines how the character of Iago in Shakespeare's play "Othello" has instigated many different analyzes, with different critics arguing about his character, motives, techniques and his overall function to the play. It discusses how few of these literary critics would argue that he does not possess an evil nature, but there are several different interpretations to how we would regard Iago's character and what his role is in "Othello." It shows how from the outset of the drama, Shakespeare makes effective use of dramatic irony and permits the audience to ascertain Iago's actual disposition, as Iago admits that he is a calculated and self-seeking beguiler.

From the Paper:

"Iago is one of Shakespeare's most sophisticated Machiavellian villains whose role is utterly crucial to the play. His motives for committing his evil acts are often difficult to determine, although jealously plays a large role for his desire to dissemble those who he dislikes. It is his professional jealousy that leads him to want to deprecate Cassio, but on a personal level, he also resents him for having an attractive wife while fearing that Cassio has committed adultery with Emilia, his own wife. He destroys Othello partly for this same fear, that the general "has twixt my sheets, done my office," but he is also enraged with Othello for promoting Cassio rather than himself."

More papers on Iago:

• Persuasive Essay # 133459 : "Iago's Successful Moral Degradation of Othello"
• Analytical Essay # 6284 : "Honest Iago"
• Essay # 63631 : "Iago and Lies"
• Analytical Essay # 4567 : "The Role of Iago in "Othello"

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