The beauty of Iago’s reverse psychology lies in the fact that his reputation remains untouched, since he is not saying anything he actually wants Othello to do, which could hurt his reputation, he is saying the opposite. In this case, saying the opposite puts Iago in a great, non-aggressive position. He motivates Othello to do what he wishes, while seeming passive. He also mentions how he apparently wishes the rumors to be untrue. Thus, his motives are hidden, and Othello does not suspect him whatsoever. Iago uses reverse psychology in a similar situation after he informs Othello that Cassio has been muttering in his sleep. Iago urges Othello to believe that it was simply a dream, and not to think of it as a sign. Once again, Othello is compelled to act in an opposing manner. He speaks against Iago, and mentions how closely Cassio’s muttering is linked to both their suspicions. Noticing how successful this method of manipulation is, Iago wisely uses it on several occasions. When Iago asks Othello to calm down, his rage is amplified. But Othello is not mad at Iago. As Othello sees it, Iago is on his side, because reverse psychology allows Iago to easily hide his true
The beauty of Iago’s reverse psychology lies in the fact that his reputation remains untouched, since he is not saying anything he actually wants Othello to do, which could hurt his reputation, he is saying the opposite. In this case, saying the opposite puts Iago in a great, non-aggressive position. He motivates Othello to do what he wishes, while seeming passive. He also mentions how he apparently wishes the rumors to be untrue. Thus, his motives are hidden, and Othello does not suspect him whatsoever. Iago uses reverse psychology in a similar situation after he informs Othello that Cassio has been muttering in his sleep. Iago urges Othello to believe that it was simply a dream, and not to think of it as a sign. Once again, Othello is compelled to act in an opposing manner. He speaks against Iago, and mentions how closely Cassio’s muttering is linked to both their suspicions. Noticing how successful this method of manipulation is, Iago wisely uses it on several occasions. When Iago asks Othello to calm down, his rage is amplified. But Othello is not mad at Iago. As Othello sees it, Iago is on his side, because reverse psychology allows Iago to easily hide his true