The Rise and Fall of Iago

Paper Summary:

William Shakespeare's play, "Othello", should be renamed "Iago" because, throughout the play, we witness the rise and fall of Iago's character. When we consider this perspective, we will assume that Iago's rise occurs from his success in turning Othello into a jealous monster. Iago is able to achieve this because he is very cunning and smart. It is also important to note that he understands jealousy because he is a jealous man as well. This paper explores the how Iago was able to rise and fall in "Othello".

From the Paper:

"He advises Othello to "Look to your wife; observe her will with Cassio./Wear your eye thus: not jealous, nor secure" (III.iii.195-6). Because Othello is first to mention his suspicions, Iago has successfully isolated himself from any of the blame. Kenneth Muir states that Iago "exploits the virtues as well as the weaknesses of Othello and of Desdemona, weaknesses both of character and situation" (Muir 35). Paul Cantor agrees with this notion, adding that "Iago turns everything that makes the love of Othello and Desdemona so extraordinary into an objection against it. The fact that they have overcome such differences in order to love each other becomes in Iago's view evidence for the improbability of their remaining loyal to each other" (Cantor). Iago's actions regarding these statements illustrate his cunning nature."

More papers on The Rise and Fall of Iago:

• Analytical Essay # 62311 : "The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich"
• Essay # 66185 : "The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich"
• Essay # 49954 : "The Rise and Fall of the Church"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: