Othello is simply an average, naïve man who falls prey to Iago’s evil planning and manipulation. This is true to a certain extent as one can argue Othello is naïve, yet he is not average and deteriorates significantly in character owing to Iago’s manipulation.
Initially we are introduced to Iago, the supposed loyal and trusted ensign to the Moor, Othello. Iago states that he is not what seems and this is made evident with the words, "I am not what I am." Iago hates Othello as Othello chose Cassio, a Florentine with no military experience to act as lieutenant, and relegated Iago to the position of his ancient. When Roderigo asks why Iago continues to serve Othello, in spite of how the general has treated him, Iago replies, "I follow him to …show more content…
In order to retain his sense of usefulness, he manufactures troubles by almost willingly allowing Iago to manipulate him. Othello and Iago are consumed with jealousy and hatred and this is what guides each character to their ultimate demise.
The downfall of Othello’s noble characteristics is intensified after Iago discredits Cassio. A mention of Desdemona’s unfaithfulness is enough to trap Othello in the mire of Iago’s deceptions without even asking Desdemona about the situation. This emphasises the way in which Othello gullibly believes and trusts everything Iago tells him. Once Iago provides Othello with the “ocular proof” of the handkerchief, Othello completely disregards Desdemona and their relationship begins to deteriorate, similar to that of Iago and Emilia.
The sheer amount of manipulation casted upon Othello by Iago, proves that Othello will believe anything he can see and touch and this suggests that he is gullible enough to believe anything he sees. Everything he stood for is tarnished as he treats Desdemona poorly and becomes more dishonest for example, when he eavesdrops on the conversation between Cassio and Iago without their consent to do
Initially we are introduced to Iago, the supposed loyal and trusted ensign to the Moor, Othello. Iago states that he is not what seems and this is made evident with the words, "I am not what I am." Iago hates Othello as Othello chose Cassio, a Florentine with no military experience to act as lieutenant, and relegated Iago to the position of his ancient. When Roderigo asks why Iago continues to serve Othello, in spite of how the general has treated him, Iago replies, "I follow him to …show more content…
In order to retain his sense of usefulness, he manufactures troubles by almost willingly allowing Iago to manipulate him. Othello and Iago are consumed with jealousy and hatred and this is what guides each character to their ultimate demise.
The downfall of Othello’s noble characteristics is intensified after Iago discredits Cassio. A mention of Desdemona’s unfaithfulness is enough to trap Othello in the mire of Iago’s deceptions without even asking Desdemona about the situation. This emphasises the way in which Othello gullibly believes and trusts everything Iago tells him. Once Iago provides Othello with the “ocular proof” of the handkerchief, Othello completely disregards Desdemona and their relationship begins to deteriorate, similar to that of Iago and Emilia.
The sheer amount of manipulation casted upon Othello by Iago, proves that Othello will believe anything he can see and touch and this suggests that he is gullible enough to believe anything he sees. Everything he stood for is tarnished as he treats Desdemona poorly and becomes more dishonest for example, when he eavesdrops on the conversation between Cassio and Iago without their consent to do