Othello #3

As the play progresses, the first stage of Iago's plan to take down his foes is successful. When Othello leaves for the night with Desdemona, Iago gets Cassio drunk so the lieutenant will lose his judgement: "If I can fasten but one cup upon [Cassio], with that which he hath drunk tonight already, he'll be as full of quarrel and offense as my young mistress' dog. [...] Now 'mongst this flock of drunkards am I to put our Cassio in some action that may offend the isle" (II.iii.42-55). Iago knows that Cassio does not enjoy drinking, and that the lieutenant does not have a tolerance for alcohol. Iago has already sent Roderigo to anger Cassio in the night, and a drunken Cassio would make a public scene more accessible. Iago desires a spectacle for Cassio to shame himself publicly because Othello would have to remove the lieutenant from his position for disgracing himself and the Italian navy. Iago disapproved of Cassio's promotion from the start, and Cassio's removal would leave the position open for Iago. Iago succeeds in his maniacal plan to take down Cassio while simultaneously convincing Othello and Cassio that he is an honest and caring person.

While Cassio and Montano are fighting, Iago makes it seem like he tries to break up the brawl. He says, "Fie, fie, lieutenant, you'll be ashamed for ever" (II.iii.147-148) and "Hold, ho! Lieutenant–sir, Montano–gentlemen, have you forgot all place of sense and duty Hold! (II.iii.153-155). Iago wishes to appear helpful even though he secretly caused the violent mess. By attempting to control the senseless fight, Iago displays his leadership qualities to Othello in order to highlight the general's mistake in choosing Cassio as second in command. In addition to Cassio's public embarrassment, Iago's apparent leadership makes it clear that Iago should have been chosen over Cassio. Although Iago is subtly betraying Cassio and Othello, he appears loyal to both in order to maintain their trust. It is essential that Cassio and Othello trust Iago in order for the menace's success to continue.