Theme Of Envy In Othello

The feelings of envy are inevitable to man. Envy is a feeling that at times is beneficial because, it pushes one to strive to do better and achieve great things in order for one to become and have the best. In Othello, written by William Shakespeare, Iago is a man who easily succumbs to his envy over both Othello and Cassio. He believes himself to be crossed by both and thus goes through great lengths to ensure that both men are led to their downfalls. Yet, his feelings of being crossed are not the only reason as to why Iago mercilessly toys and plots Othello against Cassio. Rather, it is also due to the underlying conclusion that Iago envy’s Othello and the man he has become and the great victories he has achieved. Iago is a man who is full of envy and the desire who does everything in his power to achieve his desires no matter the consequences that might follow. Iago’s motivation to seek out the …show more content…
Rather, it is a combination of many factors including his own character traits, and an envy of Othello. Iago is a man of envy and he envy’s the power the “Moor” possesses (1.3.330). Yet, he never admits this rather, he uses rumors to justify his actions of vengeance towards Othello. He believes that Othello has slept with his wife because sources have said it to be true, “I hate the Moor, And it is thought abroad, that 'twixt my sheets 'Has done my office. I know not if 't be true, But I, for mere suspicion in that kind, Will do as if for surety”(1.3.329-433). Iago must justify every action with a reason. Thus, he gathers whatever rumor or resentment he has towards both Othello and Cassio in order to continue his destructive plot and motions against them. He is cunning in his ways and will mercilessly carry out whatever he is set on conducting but, he feels he must justify his actions with reasons in order to portray himself as the victim seeking