Othello #4

As the play continues, Iago flawlessly demonstrates his skills of manipulation and deception. Iago utilizes the jealousy in his quest to take down Othello. When Iago is left alone with Othello he hints that he thinks Cassio is disloyal to Othello. Rather than telling Othello directly after being asked, Iago builds the suspense of his assumption by prolonging the revelation.When Othello orders Iago to share his thoughts, Iago responds, "Good my lord, pardon me, though I am bound to every act of duty I am not bound to that all slaves are free" (III.iii.138-140). Iago wants to make it seem like he is trying to protect his general by remaining silent. Although Iago has convinced Othello that he is loyal and loving, he makes the point that he does not have to tell Othello what he is thinking. Iago appears adamant about not sharing his thoughts with Othello in order to display his supposed care for his superior. To Othello, Iago does not want to share his ideas because Iago does not want Othello to be worried or suspicious of thoughts that do not have proof. Iago's avoidance of sharing his thoughts successfully leads to Othello's jealously, which is what Iago was aiming for in the first place. Before Othello appears outwardly jealous Iago says, "Oh, beware, my lord, of jealousy! It is the green-eyed monster which doth mock the meat it feeds on (III.iii.169-171). Iago warns Othello of the dangers of jealousy to provide explanation for why he does not wish to share his thoughts. In actuality, Iago mentions jealousy to suggest that his thoughts are something Othello should be jealous about. Iago's use of reverse psychology is successful. After Iago shares his ideas about Cassio and Desdemona Othello loses control and falls into a fit of jealousy and rage. Othello becomes angry with Iago and says, "Villain, be sure thou prove a love a whore, be sure of it" (III.iii.367-368). Othello is angry with Iago because he ruined his happiness that spurred from his love of Desdemona. Othello has fallen from a euphoric state into a unfortunate state riddled with jealousy. Iago is successful in ruining Othello's happiness, but Othello is angry with Iago, which does not fit Iago's plan for the general's downfall. In order to mend his relationship with Othello, Iago shouts about the disadvantages to honesty: "O wretched fool that lov'st to make thine honesty a vice! O monstrous world! Take note, take note, O world, to be direct and honest is not safe" (383-386). Iago's claims are meant to make Othello feel bad about becoming angry with Iago for being honest. Othello asks Iago to share his thoughts, and Iago complied. Othello's anger with Iago disintegrates, and Iago regains his superior's trust. Iago has leverage over Othello to keep his plan going.