Deception In Othello

“Things are not always as they seem; the first appearance deceives.” – Phaedrus. The Tragedy of Othello, the Moor of Venice by William Shakespeare contains deception and thrives off the keynote of appearance versus reality. Many characters in Othello base their judgement of certain situations on appearance. Iago keeps up the appearance of honesty to deceive Roderigo into believing he is helping him and the protagonist, Othello into believing his wife is being unfaithful. Iago harbours a deep hate for Othello and thus seeks to get revenge. Iago puts his plan in motion when he persuades his wife, Emilia to steal Desdemona’s handkerchief. Iago then plants it in Cassio’s possession. Without delay he goes to Othello to inform him of Cassio’s new handkerchief: “I know not that; but such a handkerchief – / I am sure it was your wife’s – did I today / See Cassio wipe his beard with.” (3.3.496-498) The handkerchief Iago …show more content…
Iago is aware of this and boasts of it in his soliloquy: “The Moor is of a free and open nature / That thinks men honest that but seem to be so, / and will as tenderly be led by the nose / As asses are.” (1.3.442-445) Not only does Iago know Othello has complete faith and trust in him, but also that he’ll be able to use this to his advantage. It is evident that Othello has a deep love for Desdemona; when questioned how she will be going to Cyprus Othello volunteers Iago without hesitation: “A man be is of honesty and trust / To his conveyance I assign my wife” (1.3.323-324) In regards to this, Othello trusts and believes he knows Iago enough to deem him fit for the task of ensuring the safety of his wife. It is blatantly obvious that Othello appreciates his friendship with Iago and speaks highly of him: “Iago is most honest” (1.3.331) Othello has no doubt that Iago is always truthful. However, this observation could not be farther from the