

Iago's Manipulation Essay
- 3 Works Cited
Essay on Character Analysis of Roderigo in Othello
Later on in the play, Iago lies to Roderigo when he tells him that Othello will be taking Desdemona with him to Mauritania. He suggests that if Roderigo ever wants to see Desdemona again he has to make sure that Othello extends his stay in Cyprus. To do so, he suggests that Cassio must be killed, “Why, by making him uncapable of Othello’s place—/ knocking out his brains.”(4.2.226-227). If Othello goes to Mauritania, Cassio will be assigned Othello’s place. By killing Cassio, Iago gets his revenge and Roderigo would have a chance to win over Desdemona. Roderigo’s character is used to portray the theme of manipulation. He is persuaded into doing Iago’s ill deeds. Iago is only after one thing, to be appointed lieutenant, and he will do whatever is necessary to reach his goal.
Who Is Iago's Interest In Othello
In Shakespeare’s Othello, Iago gains the trust of Roderigo by manipulating him so he can gain wealth out of him. Iago brings back the hope to Roderigo, who already thought of committing suicide, by saying to him that soon enough Desdemona will not find any interest in Othello. All that Roderigo has to do is to keep the income going for Iago if he wants Desdemona to be with him instead of Othello. For that to happen they have to plan on revenge on Othello by making him think that his wife is cheating on him.
Iago's Revenge to Othello
Iago also knows that Roderigo will do anything for Desdemona’s love. Iago says, “Thus I do ever make a fool my purse” (1.3.355). Iago tells this to Roderigo which means that he is willing to manipulate anyone as long as he gives him jewels and money. This quote makes him look brilliant because he knows that Roderigo has a lot of money and will do anything to be with Desdemona. I agree when D. Madison says, “In Othello, he knows just what to say to sound innocent. Iago is the ultimate master of manipulation”. Iago uses his knowledge wisely and uses it to manipulate others for his own satisfaction, and knows how to manipulate them because he has analyzed them before, and that is what makes him so good at being evil. Iago is fully aware what he is doing and has no sympathy for anyone like he says himself; “And what’s he then that says play the villain, When this advice is free I give, and honest” (2.3.299).
Iago Manipulates Othello, Cassio and Roderigo Essay
Roderigo also plays as a pawn in Iago's plan when he is lied to by Iago about getting married to Desdemona. For example when Iago says to Roderigo, "Plague him with flies"(I,i,71). Iago uses this metaphor to manipulate Roderigo into going to Desdemona's father and telling him that his daughter is married to the Moor, Othello. Iago wants Brabantio, Desdemona's father, to dislike the Moor because Othello did not make Iago his lieutenant. Roderigo is told by Iago that if he tells Brabantio that Othello and Desdemona are married than Brabantio might get them divorced or break them up. This way Roderigo will have a chance with Desdemona and express his love to her. Another metaphor that helps Iago with his plan is "Thus do I ever make my fool my purse"(I, iii, 375). Iago had been convincing Roderigo that money can buy him anything, even Desdemona's love. Roderigo believes him, blinded by his love for Desdemona, and sells his land to get money for gifts. Iago had been using Roderigo for his money and none of the gifts and jewels Roderigo gave Iago to give to Desdemona actually reached her. Roderigo who is crazy about Desdemona gets so carried away with himself that he is too late to realize that he had been tricked and used for his money. Roderigo is deceived by Iago whom he trusted so dearly
How Does Iago Manipulate Othello
First, Iago cunningly deceives Roderigo into giving Iago all of his money by telling Roderigo it would win over the girl he loves Desdemona. Roderigo is an innocent weak man who falls in love with a women and trusts the wrong person to tell. In the very beginning of the play Iago already puts his plan in action, "Thou art sure of me.
Jealousy In Iago In William Shakespeare's Othello
Roderigo is so deeply in love but can’t get her that he suggest to Iago that he should drown himself, which Iago tells him that’s a silly idea and she’ll eventually break up with Othello when he (Roderigo) becomes rich but for now he still pays Iago for his assistance. His gullible mind will ultimately lead to Iago’s betraying him starting in Act 4 when he becomes furious that although he’s been giving Iago money and jewels, he’s yet to progress in getting Desdemona and then Iago tells him Cassio will be defending Cyprus and he needs to take kill him in order to get a higher chance in winning over Desdemona Shakespeare 4.2 185-187, 196-199).
Iago's Manipulative Nature in Shakespeare's Othello Essays
- 2 Works Cited
Iago's manipulative nature has a profound effect on the decisions made by other characters in Shakespeare's ‘Othello’. Through his relations with those around him Shakespear characterizes him as a man full of malice, vengeance and dishonesty that is wholly inspired by jealousy. Furthermore it would appear that Iago has an exceptional ability to scheme, a talent which he uses to snake his way into the lives of others and exploit them through their weaknesses. Whether he does this for profit or for pleasure is a separate issue.
Rhetorical Analysis Of Iago
Iago’s manipulation of Othello is the most significant in the play Othello. Although, Iago’s elaborate plan would never have worked without careful manipulation of Othello’s honorable lieutenant, Cassio. In the third scene of act two, Iago uses his established credibility and pathos to manipulate Cassio’s emotions. The scene starts with Othello telling Cassio to assist Iago in standing guard through the night. When Iago arrives, he begins his manipulation by shifting the conversation to Othello’s wife Desdemona, which leads Cassio to say, “She is indeed perfection” (Shakespeare, 2.3.22). Iago uses this conversation to direct Cassio’s emotions. Immediately after Cassio confesses his feeling for Desdemona, Iago tells Cassio he has a “stoup of wine,” and wants to have a toast to Othello’s health (2.3.23). With persuasion from Iago, Cassio takes part in the toast and gets drunk. Shortly after Cassio leaves, Iago sends Roderigo, a former suitor to Desdemona, to start a fight with him. Not long after, Roderigo runs back pursued by Cassio. Iago, knowing
Roderigo Academic Journal Essay
This is the point of no return for Roderigo. Here he declares his extreme love for Desdemona and his intent to be with her by any means necessary. The only problem is that he confesses it to the wrong person—Iago. We also see Roderigo slip to the level of Iago. Shakespeare does this by having Roderigo speak with Iago not in meter. This shift in Roderigo’s speech shows how desperate he is to be with Desdemona and how Iago is beginning to take control.
Similarities Between Rodeerigo And Othello
Roderigo believes that Iago will help him win Desdemona's love, so she will abandon Othello. In the play, Iago states “I say put money in thy purse. It cannot be that Desdemona should continue her love to the moor-put money in thy purse-nor he his to her” (1.1.385). Iago persuades Roderigo to pay him for his service, which would only be the beginning of his manipulations. Roderigo has a deep love and respect for his companion Iago, whom he trusts, as witnessed by his willingness to give him money. The adoration Roderigo has
Essay on Act One Of Othello
Shakespeare’s initial portrayal of Roderigo, is of a rather dim and naïve man. Firstly, he has paid a clearly dishonest self serving man, Iago, to promote a match between him and Desdemona, to her father, Brabantio. Secondly, nearly all Roderigo’s conversation consists of subservient comments towards the manipulative Iago. He is constantly agreeing and
A Character Analysis Of Iago Essay
Iago makes a complete fool out of Roderigo. In fact, as play starts Iago is taking advantage of Roderigo. Roderigo remarks, "That thou, Iago, who hast had my purse as if the strings were thine." [Act I, Scene I, Line 2]. Throughout the play, Iago leads Roderigo by the collar professing that he "hate(s) the Moor" [Act I, Scene III, Line 344] and telling Roderigo to "make money" [Act I, Scene III, Line 339] to give Desdemona gifts to win her over. During the Iago keeps the gifts that Roderigo purchases for Desdemona for himself. Roderigo eventually begins to question Honest Iago, saying "I think it is scurvy, and begin to find myself fopped in it." [Act IV, Scene II, Line 189]. When faced with this accusation, Iago simply offers that killing Cassio will
Essay on Jealousy in Othello
Iago does not stop there, his jealously leads him to start infecting others and the first is Roderigo, a naïve gentleman in Venice. To put his scheme into motion, Iago informs Roderigo of Othello and Desdemona’s elopement, which causes Roderigo to become very upset because he too is in love with Desdemona and is willing to do anything to win her love. Iago plants the seed of jealousy in Roderigo’s mind because he knows he can now use Roderigo “for sport and profit” (I.iii.1180) by playing off his jealousy toward anyone who comes close to Desdemona. After breaking Roderigo down he then, builds him back up by telling him a way they can break up the marriage. Iago tells him:
Iago By William Shakespeare 's Othello Essay
Today’s society is overly familiar with deception and lies; whether it is from their family, friends, media, or politicians. Historically, there has been an abundance which still carries on today. Behind every lie, there is a motive for doing so. In Shakespeare 's Othello, Iago is no exception to this rule. He is living a dual life of lies. On one face Iago is a trustworthy friend who is attempting to set up Roderigo with the love of his life. His other face is the one whose main goal is to be the Lieutenant of the Venetian Army. In order to reach that status he must ruin the relationship of Cassio and Othello. Iago uses each other character against others and against themselves using his knowledge of their habits and lives. His vast array of manipulative strategies gives him an extraordinary advantage over his peers. A few weak points that Iago targets are Roderigo 's desire for Desdemona, Othello 's self image and Cassio 's trust.
The Effects Of Jealousy In Othello
A victim of the villainous Iago, Roderigo was jealous of Othello’s marriage with Desdemona and tried to break it up by hiring Iago. His jealousy is seen taking its toll on Roderigo after he reacts to the confession of Desdemona’s love for Othello in front of the Duke and Brabantio. After hearing this, Roderigo feels as though all hope is lost and expresses his despair to Iago saying,
Related Topics
- William Shakespeare
We've updated our privacy policy. Click here to review the details. Tap here to review the details.
Activate your 30 day free trial to unlock unlimited reading.
Othello Essay EDITED COPY: Iago's Acts of Character Manipulation

You are reading a preview.
Activate your 30 day free trial to continue reading.

Check these out next

Download to read offline
ENG3U1 - Iago's Acts of Character Manipulation This is my essay AFTER edits from my teacher Original Essay Here: http://www.slideshare.net/Puffeycream/othello-essay-29935918
Recommended

More Related Content
Slideshows for you (20).

Viewers also liked (19)

Similar to Othello Essay EDITED COPY: Iago's Acts of Character Manipulation (20)

Recently uploaded (20)

- 1. OTHELLO ESSAY- Edited Copy Iago’s Strategic Acts of Character Manipulation W.H. Auden once said, "There is more than meets the eye", suggesting that there may be a hidden or deeper meaning behind a person's initial appearance. Lies and deceits are common in society, and many individuals mask their true intentions with a veneer. In Shakespeare's play Othello, the character Iago is no different from those deceptive individuals. Behind his façade as a trustworthy ensign and friend, Iago is a multilayered, deceptive and manipulative villain, concocting chaos and causing mishaps to other characters for revenge. Iago uses his deft and astute strategic acts of manipulation to undermine each character’s weaknesses. He exploits Roderigo’s love for Desdemona, cajoles Cassio under the guise of friendship, and toys with Othello’s mind by playing on his self-doubt. Evidently, Iago manipulates the people around him by using their weaknesses against them. Iago uses Roderigo’s gullible and naive personality to his advantage. Roderigo’s obsessive love for Desdemona renders him susceptible to Iago’s manipulation. This obsession causes him to unquestioningly believe anything Iago says in hopes of getting Desdemona. Initially, Iago robs Roderigo of his fortune. He convinces him that the gold and jewels will be given to Desdemona as a proclamation of his love when in actuality, Iago plans to keep it for himself. Iago states: “Thus do I ever make fool my purse” (Shakespeare.I.iii.374). Evidently, Iago takes advantage of Roderigo’s devotion by conning him out of all his money. Similarly, Iago uses Roderigo once more by convincing him to kill Cassio. Although Roderigo is reluctant at first, he relents once Iago insists by helping him, Roderigo will win Desdemona’s heart. Roderigo states: “I have no great devotion to the deed/ And yet he hath given me satisfying
- 2. reasons./ ‘Tis but a man gone. Forth, my sword: he dies” (V.i. 8-10). Evidently, gullible Roderigo falls for Iago’s mendacity and attempts to kill Cassio. Ultimately, Iago chooses to kill Roderigo. Iago mercilessly states: “I have rubbed this young quat almost to the sense,/ And he grows angry/ May unfold me to him-there stand I in much peril. /No, he must die. But so, I hear him coming” (V.i. 11-23). This portrays how Iago ruthlessly takes advantage of foolish Roderigo for his own needs and disposes of him once his value is used up. Overall, Roderigo is a pawn in Iago’s schemes, controlled and enslaved through his blind lust for Desdemona (Baker and Womack 1538). Thus, Iago exploits Roderigo’s naiveté and obsession with Desdemona by deceiving and manipulating him in order to bring about the downfall of the other characters. Iago capitalizes on Cassio’s trusting nature by pretending to be his friend while clandestinely misleading him. Initially, Iago pressures Cassio to drink, getting him intoxicated to cause a fight. As a result, Othello demotes Cassio from his high-ranking position as lieutenant. Cassio’s reputation is of utmost importance to him, and having just been demoted exposes him to Iago’s schemes. In fact, despite the fact that Iago is behind Cassio’s drunken melee, he betrays Cassio by telling Montano that Cassio is an alcoholic. Iago tells Montano, “Tis evermore the prologue to his sleep. He’ll watch the horologe a double set/ If drink rock not his cradle” (II.iii.115-118). Iago intentionally slanders Cassio to diminish his reputation despite appearing to be Cassio’s friend. With this in mind, Iago further plots against Cassio by advising him with malicious intentions. He gives Cassio hope of getting his position back by telling him to ask Othello’s wife, Desdemona for help. Although, this may seem like legitimate advice, Iago plans to use this in his ploy to bring him down. Iago appeals to Cassio’s trusting nature, “I protest, in the sincerity of love and honest kindness” (II.iii.309) but follows it up in his soliloquy by sarcastically saying, “And what’s he then that says I play the villain?/ When this advice is free I
- 3. give and honest,/ Probal to thinking and indeed the course,/ To win the Moor again?” (II.iii.245- 248). Evidently, Iago deliberately misleads Cassio so that he can use Cassio’s misguided behavior to insinuate that he desires Desdemona. In a sense, Iago is the devil in disguise, preying on Cassio’s trusting nature. Just like he uses Roderigo’s gullible nature to turn him into a pawn, Iago manages to do the same to the trusting and unwitting Cassio. In short, Iago manipulates Cassio by taking advantage of his trusting nature to deceive him under the guise of friendship. Iago plays on Othello’s personal insecurities to bring about his downfall. Othello is notably an outcast, being the only black man in a white society. Throughout the whole play, he is referred to as “The Moor”. His skin colour resuls in unfavorable preset assumptions and prompts the association of savage animalistic characteristics. Even more so, his relationship with Desdemona is “in a period when such a marriage would be rare and controversial” (Baker and Womack 1534). As a result of society’s prejudice, Othello’s self-esteem diminishes, allowing Iago to capitalize on his insecurity to invoke the feeling of jealousy in Othello. To start off, Iago insinuates that Desdemona is unfaithful to Othello, as she prefers only people of her ‘type’, a class Othello will never belong. Iago convincingly states, “As, to be bold with you,/ Not to affect many proposed matches/ Of her own clime, complexion, and degree,/ Whereto we see in all things nature tends” (III.iii. 232-236). Using this logic, Iago claims that Desdemona would prefer Cassio, who is like her in age, race, and class, as opposed to Othello who is older, black and unattractive (1538). Similarly, Iago uses Desdemona’s gender and past to convince Othello of her infidelity. Iago states: “She did deceive her father, marrying you,/ And when she seemed to shake and fear your looks,/ She loved them most” (III.iii. 210-213). He suggests that Desdemona, having betrayed her father, is very likely to betray Othello. Combined with the knowledge that women of that time period were unvirtuous and unfaithful, this tips Othello over the edge. Piece
- 4. by piece, Iago wears down Othello’s layers, and places a heavy cloud of doubt and jealousy around him. Furthermore, Iago muddles with Othello’s mind to such an extent that Othello believes no one but Iago. He cocoons Othello in a coat of lies, using his doubt and jealousy to turn him against Desdemona. Othello states: “Oh, damn her, damn her!/ Come, go with me apart. I will withdraw/ To furnish me with some swift means of death/ For the fair devil. Now art thou my lieutenant” (III.iii. 482-485). Undoubtedly, Othello shapes a realm of truth from Iago’s lies, and promotes Iago to his desired position as lieutenant. Ironically, Othello accepts Iago’s lies and believes them to be the truth, but believes Desdemona’s truthful pleas to be a lie. In essence, Iago takes advantage of Othello’s self-doubt to cradle him in a deceitful environment, and “dehumanizes the noble general, making him into a brute against his own wife” (1538). Thus, Iago toys with Othello’s mind by using his insecurity against him. Iago undermines each characters weakness to ensure the success of his strategic schemes against them. The gullible fool Roderigo, the trusting Cassio and the insecure noble Moor all fall for Iago’s wiles, illustrating his conniving nature and ability to diabolically manipulate characters. Iago is much like a spider, twisting his prey deeper while spinning his web of lies around them. All in all, Iago masterminds the downfall and deaths of many characters, and now he lives with the consequences of his actions and the weight of all the deaths he caused on his shoulders.
- 5. Works Cited Baker, William, and Womack, Kenneth. “The Facts On File Companion to Shakespeare, 5- Volume Set.” New York: Facts On File, 2012. Infobase eBooks. Web. 31 Oct. 2013. Shakespeare, William. Othello. Ed. Roma Gill. Oxford: Oxford UP, 2009. Print. Works Consulted Christofides, R. M. "Iago And Equivocation: The Seduction And Damnation Of Othello." Early Modern Literary Studies (2010): 6.Literary Reference Center. Web. 31 Oct. 2013. Feather, Jennifer. "O Blood, Blood, Blood": Violence And Identity In Shakespeare's Othello." Medieval & Renaissance Drama In England 26.(2013): 240-263. Literary Reference Center. Web. 31 Oct. 2013.
Share Clipboard
Public clipboards featuring this slide, select another clipboard.
Looks like you’ve clipped this slide to already.
You just clipped your first slide!
Create a clipboard
Get slideshare without ads, special offer to slideshare readers, just for you: free 60-day trial to the world’s largest digital library..
The SlideShare family just got bigger. Enjoy access to millions of ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, and more from Scribd.

You have now unlocked unlimited access to 20M+ documents!
Unlimited Reading
Learn faster and smarter from top experts
Unlimited Downloading
Download to take your learnings offline and on the go
Instant access to millions of ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, podcasts and more.
Read and listen offline with any device.
Free access to premium services like Tuneln, Mubi and more.
Help us keep SlideShare free
It appears that you have an ad-blocker running. By whitelisting SlideShare on your ad-blocker, you are supporting our community of content creators.

We've updated our privacy policy.
We’ve updated our privacy policy so that we are compliant with changing global privacy regulations and to provide you with insight into the limited ways in which we use your data.
You can read the details below. By accepting, you agree to the updated privacy policy.

- RESEARCH PAPERS AND ESSAYS
- ESSAY TOPICS
- PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES
- Joseph Robinette Biden
- Donald Trump
- Barack Obama
- States Ranked by Size & Population
- States Ranked by Date

How Does Iago Manipulate Othello's Character
Growth mindset quotes in othello.
Mindset and grit are equaled to success. Growth mindset is the belief that people can get smarter by working harder and practicing. Fixed mindset is the thought that talent and skills develop success without putting any effort. Grit is determination to stick to one thing until you have mastered it. There are certain decisions that an individual makes that will impact grit. Throughout reading the play Othello by Shakespeare there are connection between Othello , Desdemona , Iago and Brabantio with grit , growth mindset and fixed mindset.
Manipulation Quotes In Othello
Iago and his wife Emilia enter the room to comfort Desdemona. Desdemona weeps telling Iago that Othello hates her. Iago sat by her saying “Fie, there is no such man. It’s impossible” (IIII.ii.157) trying to reassure her. Iago uses manipulation in a different way here. His method of manipulation is comfort and reassurance which makes Iago an even more dangerous character. Iago uses his tone to manipulate and calm Desdemona of her worries. Iago looks at her and tells her to be happy and that Othello is not serious about what he is saying and that he is just being funny (IIII.ii.194). Desdemona then relaxes and is content for sometime. Iago’s success in manipulating Desdemona creates tension and further problems. Emilia, Iago’s wife is also a victim, his wrongdoings and fails to see what her husband is doing to her and everyone around
Similarities Between Gatsby And Othello
Customarily, an author will construct a narrative in which the protagonist, a character contrived to be implausible, as well as honorable is destined to decline along the path of tragedy leading to suffering and misfortune. Distinctive writing strategies corresponding to the theme, motifs, symbols and characters contently allow the scripter to plot the flaws dominating the descent of the advocate. Amongst Fitzgerald and Shakespeare’s central characters, Jay Gatsby and Othello, both filled with passionate love for their significant other are corrupted by their lack of judgement causing them to lose the one they lust over. Similarly, both characters originated from a meager past which they were forced to struggle to achieve a position where they
Iago's Cruelty In Othello
The cruelty Iago is able to incite in Othello and Roderigo reveals their deep passions and overwhelmingly trusting natures. The fact that Othello is so vulnerable and susceptible to Iago’s poisoning sheds light on his lurking insecurities about age, race and appearance, which Othello is ultimately unable to ignore. Likewise, Roderigo’s willingness to sacrifice all money and morals by Iago’s bidding reflects his naive passions and an overall lack of personal strength. In stark contrast with Othello and Roderigo, Desdemona, the primary victim of Iago’s cruelty and yet the only one who dies completely unaware of it, turns out, somewhat ironically, to be the only one whose inner self is completely unaffected by Iago. On the eve of her death, even after being horribly mistreated by Othello, she firmly upholds her values of loyalty and obedience, and her belief that no woman would ever wrong her husband. This reveals in part her naivety to the point of foolish ignorance that she met her downfall with, but more importantly, the incorruptible purity and innocence that Desdemona
Iago's Control In Othello
Untruths and misdirection’s are normal in the public eye, and numerous people veil their actual goals with a lacquer. In Shakespeare 's play Othello, the character Iago is the same as those tricky people. Behind his façade as a dependable ensign and companion, Iago is a multilayered, tricky and manipulative scalawag, coming up with disarray and bringing about setbacks toother characters for requital. Iago utilizes his deft and shrewd key demonstrations of control to undermine each character’s shortcomings. He misuses Roderigo’s love for Desdemona, Cassio under the appearance of companionship, and toys with Othello’s mind by playing on his self-question. Clearly, Iago controls the general population around him by utilizing their shortcomings:
Examples Of Manipulation In Othello
In the book Othello, Iago is a very manipulating man, throughout the book he manages to manipulate three main people, Roderigo, Cassio, and Othello. He uses all their weaknesses to bring them down. Iago wants revenge on Othello, because Othello overlooks Iago and his abilities, so Iago manipulates these three characters to get back at Othello in the long run. He comes up with a very good plan to get each other to turn against one another. So in the end he ends up getting what he wanted, revenge. Many characters fall into Iago 's web of deception throughout the book.
Examples Of Machina In Othello
II, 315, 316) Othello justifies his action by blaming Iago for his manipulation. The dramatic irony in Othello is very evident. Iago throughout the play manipulates majority of the characters while still informing the audience of his actions. Othello believes that Desdemona is being unfaithful to him while the audience knows that is not the case but rather the manipulation of Iago. Although, Othello discovers that Desdemona was in fact innocent it is too late and blames it on Iago for tricking him. However, it is never mentioned that Iago’s intentions were murder. He was angry at Othello for hiring Cassio instead of him, he most likely wanted to spoil Othello’s happiness but not cause murder. It is apparent that Othello is having an internal conflict about what he should do about his wife; the logical thing would be to not kill her and get a divorce. In spite that, Othello says, “yet she must die, else she’ll betray more men” (IV. II, 6). His blame on Iago is redundant because Othello says he loves her but still believes the words of Iago instead of his
Theme Of Manipulation In Othello
When he does not get the position he wants and also heard that Othello has been sleeping with his wife Emilia, Iago’s manipulation increases. Iago plans his scheme based on, “[Othello] 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” (I. III. 431-433). This use of manipulation is all based on an assumption that Othello has slept with Iago’s wife, and this assumption leads to even more horrible events. Iago also manipulates Othello with jealousy. When Othello is gone at war, Iago tells him that Cassio and Desdemona were getting too close. At first Othello does not believe him, but by Iago saying “nothing,my lord; or if- I know not what” Othello starts to question if it is true (III. III. 39). Iago constantly uses his “innocence” to make Othello jealous and start to assume that it is true. These actions eventually lead to a tragic event. Iago’s manipulation has driven Othello insane, leading to Iago’s plans on his last night. Othello tells Iago to go get some poison to kill Desdemona, but Iago refuses and just tells him to strangle her in her bed (IV. I. 223-229). Iago’s manipulation has not only lead Othello to believe the rumor is true, but has lead him to kill his own wife as well. Iago even manipulates Othello to strangle her, which is a much personal and vengeful death than poison. All of this manipulation results in Desdemona’s death,
Manipulation In Othello Essay
One's perception of a situation is directly proportional to the demeanor of a person. When a person changes the way that they look at a situation, the entire way that they present themself; their attitude, behavior, and traits that they exude, change. In Othello, Iago uses perception in order to change the views of the characters to his advantage. In the beginning of the play, Iago makes sure that Othello’s love is strong for Desdemona. For example, Othello tells Iago, “ For know, Iago, But that I love the gentle Desdemona...” (I,ii,27). This quote shows Othello's views and perception of Desdemona at the beginning of the play. Later on in the play when the play is taking place in Cyprus, Iago paces a seed of doubt and suspicion into Othello's head. I know this because in the text Othello says, “Was not that
Desdemona's Invisible Presence In Othello
Iago is not mentioned as often as one would expect the antagonist of Othello would be. He is mentioned in an argument between Desdemona and Othello in Desdemona but not much after that. “My husband knew Iago was lying, manipulating, sabotaging? So why did he act on obvious deceit? Brotherhood. The quiet approval beamed from one male to another” (Morrison 37). Desdemona believes that Othello knew what Iago had been planning and he just went along with it because they had a connection of brotherhood. Othello agrees with the sentiment when he tells his tale of violence with Iago. He only says the word “we” not “I” which shows their teamwork and effort. Desdemona is a little disgusted by what she’s hearing and Othello says “you don’t understand. Shame, yes, but worse. There was pleasure too. The look between us was not to acknowledge shame, but mutual pleasure” (Morrison 38). Othello admits that him and Iago have an understanding and similar mindsets that other people, like Desdemona wouldn’t understand. This relates back to Desdemona saying Othello knowing what Iago wanted and going along with that to please the person who understands him best. Iago’s presence gives Othello the courage he needs to do the actions he shouldn’t, for example murder his wife. Iago’s lack of presence in Desdemona is what allows the couple to forgive each other. Knowing of Iago’s presence but that his influence over Othello is absent gives Desdemona the power to forgive Othello because he most likely won’t commit the same wrongs if no one is encouraging him with mutual looks of
In The Time Of The Butterflies And Othello Essay
Othello’s confidence for a loyal man to maintain honesty and morals are contradicted through Iago’s actions: “in a man that’s just / They are close dilations, working from the heart, / That passion cannot rule” (3.3.123). Iago, due to the understatement to his name, is not perceivable as hateful. Othello’s willingness to sense Iago’s distress, and to believe his accusations, is because of the lack of awareness Othello has for his vengeance. Iago is of such little power and relevance within societal ranking that if he were to have intentions to sabotage anyone, which he does, are not considered, thus making him easily trustworthy to those of greater dominance. Society’s view of an individual determines how others consider and surmise their persona, though these conclusions may be false.
Othello Act 3 Scene 3 Analysis
Iago’s powerfully disruptive insinuations torment Othello to fall precipitously into his intricate trap, believing in the prospect of Cassio and Desdemona’s fictitious affair. Through the use of linguistic techniques such as elliptical speech, subservient vocative choices and a hesitant tone, Iago is able to construct artful innuendoes to deceive and manipulate Othello. Supplementary to linguistic techniques, dramatic techniques such as dramatic irony reinforces Iago’s role as a two-faced villain, who is making a pretence of being Othello’s loyal ensign. Eventually, Iago’s villainy nature sows a seed of doubt in Othello that germinates into the murder of Desdemona. Through the characterisation of Iago as a notorious villain, Shakespeare is able to hold Iago’s actions accountable for the play’s tragic downfall, establishing a sense of powerlessness amongst the
Iago's Influence On Othello
Iago is a unique and complicated character. He is intelligent in that he is able to manipulate people and events in his favour, which he thrives on throughout the play, classifying him as the antagonist of the play. Driven by jealousy and hatred, Iago plots against Othello to destroy his character and reputation. Knowing that if he foolishly attacked such a respected man directly, he would be sentenced to death. As a result, he devises to use other people to obtain what he desires by influencing the characters in the play to suit his plan.
Iago Manipulation In Othello
In many stories, there are villains who seem to control how the characters act by manipulation. These kinds of villains use multiple techniques to get what they want and to execute their plans. The techniques are used to affect the characters in a negative way in favor of the villain. In Othello, the antagonist Iago, plays that role. Iago affects the characters’ lives in a negative way by his honest reputation, his ability to “read” people, and how he “proves” to be Loyal.
How Is Othello A Tragic Hero
Tragic heroes always meet their demise in the end. They have characteristics that result in their tragic deaths. In William Shakespeare’s play The Tragedy of Othello, the protagonist Othello exemplifies the characteristics of a tragic hero.
More about How Does Iago Manipulate Othello's Character
Related topics.
- Michael Cassio

Improving writing skills since 2002
(855) 4-ESSAYS
Type a new keyword(s) and press Enter to search
Othello: manipulation.
- Word Count: 869
- Approx Pages: 3
- View my Saved Essays
- Downloads: 28
- Grade level: High School
- Problems? Flag this paper!
Shakespeare's play, Othello, the Moor of Venice, teaches many lessons for life. Iago is a major character that illustrates the essence of manipulation. He uses the front of "Honest Iago" to gain everyone's trust while actually controlling their fate. Iago's lies create an atmosphere of suspicion and doubt and lead to the demise of all the main characters. Iago easily manipulates Roderigo by convincing him. Manipulation is the key player in the tragic ending of the play and taught me one of the most important lessons, to trust no one. Iago acts as if he is everyone's best friend when in actuality he is setting them up for their own downfall. . Iago uses Roderigo for his money and to do his dirty work, for example starting fights. Iago convinces Roderigo to start the fight with Cassio because he was drunk and vulnerable. He was jealous of Cassio for getting his position; he wanted revenge so he used Roderigo. Iago says to Rodrigo " come hither. If thou be'st/ valiant -as, they say, base men being in love have/ then a nobility in their natures more that is native to/ them-list me. The Lieutenant tonight watches on/ the court of guard. First, I must tell thee this:/ Desdemona is directly in love with him" (2.1.233-238). He tells him that Desdemona is in love with Cassio to anger him because he is in love with Desdemona, so he will start the fight. Iago wants everyone to think he is an honest man who would help anybody. He knows if he keeps Roderigo around to do his dirty work then know one will suspect him. He even convinces him not to go back to Venice but to stay because he promises him all of the things he wants. He needs to get money somehow so he gets Roderigo to sell his land for money. "I"ll sell my land"(1.3.402). He makes him promise's that he knows he will never fulfill. He claims he can get him Desdemona and pay all of the money back he gave him from his property. . Roderigo realizes what Iago is doing to him and he confronts him about it.
- Page 1 of 3
Essays Related to Othello: Manipulation
1. othello and elizabethan values.

This is additionally emphasised with his incorporation of societal concerns of manipulation, as well as desired honour and reputation. ... Thus, Iago is accusing Othello of being jealous, however through this, he is ironically depicting his own situation, shown in his dialogue "I confess it is my nature's plague to spy into abuses, and oft my jealousy"; the reason for Iago's manipulation of Othello is his jealousy of another man being assigned as Othello's lieutenant. Iago uses Othello's most vulnerable trait, jealousy concerning his wife Desdemona as a medium of ...
- Word Count: 878
- Approx Pages: 4
- Grade Level: Undergraduate
2. Othello's Relationship with Desdemona

Simon, there are three crucial requirements in a successful psychological manipulation: concealment of intention, understanding of the victim's vulnerabilities, and ruthlessness (Simon 79-85). ... This form of manipulation is extensively highlighted in Othello between Othello, the victim, and Iago, the manipulator. ... Iago manipulated Othello by casually referring to Cassio, Othello's most trusted partner. ... Othello, now overwhelmingly unstable and tormented by paranoia, is a victim to Iago's psychological manipulation. ... Through this tragedy, Shakespeare enlightens his rea...
- Word Count: 1083
- Has Bibliography
- Grade Level: High School
3. Logical Fallacies in Othello

Due to Othello's unwillingness to recognize his illogical reasoning and errors in thinking, for he lets his emotions cloud his judgment and becomes vulnerable to manipulation and corruption, which then ultimately leads to his downfall. ... Since Othello makes these errors in judgment without recognition, it is expected that he becomes especially vulnerable to manipulation by others such as Iago. ... A situation where Othello commits this error in reasoning is when he demands Desdemona to give him his handkerchief: OTHELLO. ... OTHELLO. ... OTHELLO. ...
- Word Count: 1372
- Approx Pages: 5
4. Othello: Notes and Study Guide
Iago's speeches make the other characters appear to be fools only falling for his manipulation. ... She is loving toward Othello but coarse towards Iago. 7. ... He is perfect prey for Iago due to his obliviousness to his manipulation. ... During the murder scene, Othello's behavior is rash and outraged. ... Othello's last words are full of regret, highlighting his conscious. 15. ...
- Word Count: 800
5. Character Analysis - Othello

Othello starts the play on top of the world. ... The answer is simple, complete manipulation of his actions by Iago. Othello is proved to be an extremely gullible person, as Iago never offers Othello legitimate proof of the affair. ... In the last few acts of Othello, the evil side of Othello's character is finally unleashed. ... Or was Othello really just good on the outside? ...
- Word Count: 1345

In Shakespeare's Othello, Iago, the villain and instigator of trouble in this play, employs manipulation and deceit to gradually gain power over Cassio and Roderigo, which in turn helps him carry out revenge on Othello, and ultimately leads to Othello's tragedy. ... Manipulation is a very powerful tactic used in this play by Iago to achieve his goals, one of which he uses almost to perfection. ... Iago even manages to get Cassio drunk at one point, contrary to Cassio's attempts to thwart it, through the use of persuasion and manipulation, resulting in Cassio's demotion fr...
- Word Count: 484
- Approx Pages: 2
- Grade Level: Graduate

- Word Count: 485
8. Iago's Ill Intent in Othello

In Shakespeare's Othello, Iago successfully manipulates others through treachery. ... Iago lies to Roderigo, claiming that Othello is being sent to Africa, and that the only way to prevent Othello from taking Desdemona to Africa along with him is to eliminate Cassio. ... The night that Cassio is left on guard by Othello, one of the most important moments in Cassio's career as lieutenant, is the night Iago chooses to unleash a masterful plan of destruction and manipulation on the life of Cassio. ... Iago is cleverly suggesting that Desdemona will eventually become disloyal to Othello....
- Word Count: 1023
9. Othello's Lack of Self-Confidence

Iago is overbearing and tries to hurt Othello. ... Yet, beyond his "normalcy", he's an intriguing character, able to make things happen through manipulation. ... It could in fact be that he is envious of Othello. ... Othello had issues. ... Othello was driven to the act by Iago. ...
- Word Count: 745

Iago Manipulation In Othello
Manipulation is viewed in a negative light in society, but if used correctly, such as advertisement, can be quite effective. Despite the fact that Iago is considered to be Othello’s right-hand man, he uses conniving and manipulation to get revenge, shaping every odd occurrence and event to his own cowardly schemes. Iago gets inside of Othello ’s mind and uses his jealousy and persecution as the Moor against him. He controls Rodrigo and ultimately destroys his reputation as well as influences Cassio when he is depressed. Iago figures out ways to manipulate multiple characters in Shakespeare’s play Othello using their faults - jealousy, control, and pride – to obtain his wants and desires. Shakespeare’s most evil character could arguably be Iago …show more content…
In this essay, the author
- Analyzes how iago manipulates multiple characters in shakespeare's play othello using their faults, such as jealousy, control, and pride, to obtain his wants and desires.
- Analyzes how shakespeare's most evil character could arguably be iago in othello. he manipulates everyone around him so easily and without a care in the world.
- Analyzes how iago is introduced to a character named rodrigo, who is heartbroken when he discovers she has married othello.
- Analyzes how iago provokes deep, strong emotions in othello, which ultimately leads to his death.
- Analyzes how iago's revenge plot began when a man named michael cassio was promoted to lieutenant — he was persuaded to get close to desdemona and tricks othello into viewing harmless occurrences.
- Analyzes how the death of desdemona is a result of the lies and manipulation of othello and cassio by iago.
- Analyzes how iago manipulates everyone else's insecurities and weaknesses, but he seems to have one of his own. his need to be lieutenant leads to his destruction.
Othello has many positive traits, including being a great leader and loyal. He also has one negative trait that ultimately leads to his death; jealousy. Iago provokes deep, strong emotions in Othello, jealousy being the strongest. Jealousy is a nasty little emotion. It causes people to do terrible things because once it is on a person’s conscience, it stays for quite some time. Because of these effects, jealousy can impact some of the strongest people such as Othello. The love between Desdemona and Othello was portrayed so elevated and pure and was filled with religious words and phrases that just added to the strength and sanctity of their love. Othello has such a strong mind, but jealousy caused by the manipulation of Iago, negatively impacts him. Iago convinces Othello that Desdemona is cheating on him with his friend Cassio. When Othello asks Iago for proof of Desdemona’s deceit, Iago describes scenes and events in which Othello has a reason to be jealous. In Act III, Scene I Iago is describing to Othello, Desdemona and Cassio’s imagined relationship, “It is impossible you should see this/ were they as prime as goats, as hot as monkeys, as salt as wolves in pride, and fools as gross as ignorance made drunk.” These images planted themselves inside Othello’s mind and haunted him until he did something about it. These images led to Othello believing Desdemona really did love …show more content…
Through his suggestion to Cassio, Iago can now be certain that Cassio will entreat Desdemona to petition for him with Othello. Cassio does implore Desdemona and she responds, “Be thou assured, good Cassio, I will do all my abilities in thy behalf” (Act III Scene III). Iago manages to obtain the handkerchief that Othello gave to Desdemona that had strawberry patterns on it form Bianca. He then tells Othello to ask for the handkerchief and if she doesn’t produce it, than she must be cheating on him. Iago also manipulates the undeserving devotion of Emilia. We learn at the end of the play that Iago “begg’d of me to steal it” of Emilia. Like Desdemona’s good nature, Iago exploits his own wife for his malicious revenge. The handkerchief was the final straw for
- opinionated
- Analyzes how shakespeare's othello tells the tragic tale of the black venetian general and how he is manipulated by his ambitious friend, iago.
- Analyzes how iago uses roderigo's desire for desdemona to control him throughout the play.
- Analyzes how michael cassio is of a higher rank than iago, and is othello’s lieutenant.
- Analyzes how othello considered iago to be his trusting ancient, but didn't know that he was manipulating him using his weaknesses of deep trust and love.
- Analyzes how the desires of othello, cassio, and roderigo allowed iago to develop his deceitful plots by offering or taking away what they want most.
- Analyzes how shakespeare's play, othello, is a tragic play that goes over various topics, from love to death.
- Analyzes how othello is an outsider to those in the play. he is gullible and easily manipulated, which leads to his regretful and foolish decision to kill his wife.
- Analyzes how iago is the most deceitful and cunning character within the play othello.
- Analyzes how desdemona, othello's wife, is an important character in the play. she is not directly causing the plot, but contributes to the events that follow.
- Analyzes how othello, iago, and desdemona possess a significant role in the play. the play is centered around the idea of jealousy, love, deceit and its doings.
- Opines that iago was a good manipulator. he manipulated people that would benefit him and help him get closer to his objective.
- Analyzes how iago manipulates othello in act three and scene three in shakespeare's shakespearean play.
- Analyzes the jealousy and murder at the end of the play. iago is the man.
- Narrates how cassio and iago put their plans into action in act 3 scene 3.
- Explains that aloud is so that others around him can go on believing the same as his.
- Narrates how in his sleep he heard him say, “sweet desdemona, let us be wary.
- Analyzes how iago spoke in a direct way, whereas he spoke softer.
- Analyzes how the man showed his support and that he is a true friend.
- Opines that othello is a fictional character that has shut up in thy brain.
- Analyzes how he asks a lot of questions about not jots, and questions.
- Analyzes how iago plays the role of a black man living in white society.
- Analyzes how othello, the moor of venice, turned against the only people in his life whose loyalty lied unquestionably with him.
- Analyzes how iago's deception is clear to the audience from the very beginning.
- Analyzes how othello could have altered the course of events by simply asking his wife and/or cassio if what iago was implying was in fact true.
- Analyzes how othello is molded into a different character, more iago-like than he himself. he has no regret for his actions and no respect to his wife desdemona, whose obedience led to her untimely downfall.
- Opines that iago is to blame for the misfortune that occurs in the story because he felt mistreated and overlooked when othello assigned cassio his right hand man.
- Analyzes how iago convinces roderigo to team up with him because of his hatred for othello. through his connections with each character, he pulls of an incredible feud.
- Analyzes how iago uses desdemona's good nature for his own agenda. he uses the good to have her listen to cassio, and then uses othello to make him jealous.
- Analyzes how iago convinces othello completely that cassio is cheating with desdemona, and finds that he wants them both dead.
- Analyzes how othello was ashamed and shocked to find iago behind the horrible unfolding, and felt betrayed. he took the one thing he valued the most for himself, desdemona.
- Analyzes how othello killed desdemona, but he might not be the one to blame. he has many problems. one is being gullible or to trustworthy.
- Analyzes how othello's love for desdemona is what iago takes from him in the end, or at least twists.
- Analyzes how iago is to blame for desdemona's death. he might not have predicted her death, but he didn't care that his actions put her life in danger.
- Analyzes how othello and desdemona are surrounded by race and jealousy.
- Analyzes how iago's words make othello feel mad and embarrassed. desdemona cheated on him, and he doesn't understand why.
- Analyzes how oden, in the movie "o", is upset after killing desi, but the jealousy let him lose his thinking. he loves desi too much, he is not willing anyone to have her.
- Analyzes how iago's heart is evil and crafty, he can't really forgive someone who is had done something bad to him. he thinks cassio is a stumbling block.
- Analyzes how cassio is jealous of othello and desdemona's relationship. micheal is a haughty character in the movie "o".
- Analyzes how shakespeare wanted to reinforce othello's characteristic of "the green-eyed monster", so he wrote this character as a black. it made this play more tendency to racism, it made jealousy more prominent.
- Analyzes how shakespeare's the tragedy of othello is a mixture of violence and passion, with moments of reflection on the characters inside thoughts and feelings.
- Analyzes how othello's jealousy takes many forms, from suspicion of an affair to competition for a job.
- Analyzes how iago's plan to make othello think michael cassio has been having an affair with desdemona works.
- Analyzes how dramatic irony plays a big role in othello. the reader knows that desdemona is innocent from the time that iago devises his plan.
- Analyzes how the handkerchief was othello's first gift to desdemona, and how iago convinced his wife to steal it.
- Analyzes how the tragedy of othello is a story about the dangers of jealousy and the toll it can take on the people who are consumed by it.
- Analyzes iago's manipulation in act one of othello. he is not mentioned by his name once, but he is referred to as ‘he’, ‘him’ and a ‘barbary horse’.
- Analyzes how iago's coarse animal-related language conveys his feelings against othello’s marriage in a much more pronounced way.
- Analyzes how iago's negative foregrounding of othello’s character in act 1 shows a noble and well-spoken man who conveys his nobility through his speech to his future father-in-law brabantio of his love for his daughter desdemona.
- Analyzes how othello demonstrates a side to him that agrees with iago’s perception of him. his personified language (greedy ear) also allows us to form the opinion that due to his use of language, he is exaggerated and boastful
- Analyzes how shakespeare allows iago to paint his own character portrait instead of having a character describe him for the audience.
- Analyzes how iago's manipulations are driven by a basic desire to get back at those who have hurt him and gain what he believes is rightfully his.
- Analyzes how in act 1 scene 1, he uses animal imagery.
- Analyzes how iago confides in the audience with the rest of his group at the end of act 2.
- Explains that iago is careful not to let them talk too often or too much.
- Opines that comedians can find comedy in some of the images he uses and in the irony of his play, but there is no way they can agree with what
Related Topics

IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
Iago effectively manipulates Othello, Roderigo, and Cassio by; presenting himself as an honest individual to Othello, lying to Roderigo about getting him
Iago's greatest skill is disguising his manipulative schemes of destroying and betraying the ones around him who refer to him as “honest Iago”.
Iago uses his adept speaking skills and clever intuition in order to manipulate every character in the play; in doing so, he is able to subtly
Iago controls the conversation throughout and as it goes on Othello has less and less power at one point Othello says to Iago 'I prithee speak to me' almost
Ironically, Othello accepts Iago's lies and believes them to be the truth, but believes Desdemona's truthful pleas to be a lie. In essence, Iago
Iago is successful in manipulating Othello through his clever use of language. He is able to convince Othello of Desdemona's infidelity and Cassio's supposed
Iago is a unique and complicated character. He is intelligent in that he is able to manipulate people and events in his favour, which he thrives on throughout
Iago convinces Othello of false information, convincing him to kill Desdemona. Easily manipulated by Iago, Othello's inherent character flaw, irrational
Iago is a major character that illustrates the essence of manipulation. He uses the front of "Honest Iago" to gain everyone's trust while actually controlling
In this essay, the author ... Iago was a good manipulator. He manipulated people that would benefit him and help him get closer to his objective. Iago had people