Discuss the character of Iago. Consider both the nature of his character and HOW it is conveyed. Othello by William Shakespeare

The most fascinating and curious character in the tragic play "Othello", by William Shakespeare, is "Honest" Iago. In the play his nature is conveyed to the audience in many ways. Iago's character is determined by his relationship with the other characters in the play. His betrayal of those who love him that occurs throughout the text is a prime example of this, and is emphasised further by dramatic irony. Iago, as the height of evil and villainy, has the typical immorality and cunning about him. Due to Iago's innate sense of deception, he has two major personalities, one of appearance and the other of reality. But Shakespeare instead of making his villain transparent, Iago is given depth and spirit.

The deceitful nature of Iago is conveyed to the audience by his treachery of the other characters, especially Othello. Iago appears to be extremely plausible, building a fabricated trust with those who surround him.

From the Library of Congress: TITLE: Thos. W. Keen...

English: Photographic full-length portrait of Edwi...

Illustration of Othello and Iago

He is the image of the soldier, frank, down-to-earth if a little vulgar in speech, "honest" and loyal. It is how Iago wants to be seen and, until the end of the play, how the characters see him. The audience knows that he is a cynical man who really does not mean what he says. In Act I, Iago stirs up Brabantio - without being seen - against Othello, saying, "I am one sir, that comes to tell you your daughter / and the Moor are now making the beast with two backs." Latter on in Act I, Iago goes on to present himself as the brave defender of Othello's reputation against Brabantio's attack on it. Iago says, "It is Brabantio. General, be advised; He comes to bad intent." He then stands his ground with Othello against Brabantio.

Above all he is the friend that appears...