The Pathological Jealousy of Iago

THE PATHOLOGICAL JEALOUSLY OF IAGO

Iago's crimes define pathological jealousy and a sheer desire for revenge. His acts

are pre-meditated and have reasons. In various soliloquies, he reveals grudges that, while

mostly false or overblown, present themselves as clear to Iago. Iago masters duplicity,

even remarking himself 'I am not what I am.' (line 67) Many of his dark motives are

probably concealed from the audience. In his few soliloquies, he presents definitive

motives for his vengeful desires. His passions are so dark that they can only be understood

by himself.

The first scene depicts Iago conversing with Roderigo. Iago's goals, grudges, and

furthermore his motives are revealed. His plan is calculated and pre-meditated with

Roderigo being a mere source of cash. Iago explains his disbelief on not being selected for

lieutenant. He boasts of his military victories 'at Rhodes, at Cyprus, and on other grounds/

Christened and heathen, must be beleed and calmed/ By debitor and creditor.'

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

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

Illustration of Othello and Iago

(lines 30-

32) Iago was denied a position of high valor and takes umbrage to the person responsible.

That person is Othello. Othello chooses Michael Cassio, whom Iago denounces as 'a

Florentine.' (line 21) Iago has been beaten by a Florentine with (as Iago thinks) less

military ability than him. This deep wound commands Iago to revenge.

Iago cannot bear Othello's being a superior figure. Iago comments on Othello's

going to war as 'Another of his fathom they have none/ To lead their business.' (lines

153-154) Iago insults Othello's skin color profusely behind his back. As the first part of his

plan, Iago seeks to arouse Brabantio to the fact that the Moor has 'robbed' (line 88) him

of his daughter. Iago refers to Othello as an 'old black ram/ tupping your white ewe.' This

tasteless reference pictures Othello's ugly black...