An Apology For Iago

Analytical Essay # 51447

Drama and Theater
English > Analysis
Shakespeare > Othello

An Apology For Iago

An examination of whether it is really Othello or Iago who is the evildoer in Shakespeare's "Othello".

1,431 words () | 5 sources | MLA | 2004 United States

Paper Summary:

In Shakespeare's "Othello", Iago is identified with evil and is typically seen as the villain of the play, while Othello is identified with good and is widely viewed as the tragic hero. This paper explains that, although Iago does commit evil acts throughout the play, he is merely a victim of circumstance and is not entirely at fault for the tragedy that occurs.

From the Paper:

"The first mentioned, and most obvious motive that Iago has for committing his crimes is the fact that Othello passes Iago over for promotion to lieutenant in favor of the less experienced soldier, Michael Cassio. This fact is learned in the very beginning of the play, as Iago speaks to Roderigo about the choice that Othello has made. Iago tells of Cassio's inexperience when he describes him as "a great arithmetician" (1.1. 19). Iago then goes on to say that Cassio "never set a squadron in the field, / Nor the division of a battle knows / More than a spinster; unless the bookish theori" (1. 1. 22-24). These phrases tell the reader that Cassio's military knowledge comes merely from books, and not from experience in battle, like that of Iago."