Othello

A detailed Summary of Othello


Appearance and Deception, Iago as a Satan Figure

The play "Othello" by William Shakespeare is based on an Italian story in Giraldi Cinthio's Hecatommithi (Groliers). In "Othello" we encounter Iago, one of Shakespeare's most evil characters. Iago is an ensign in Othello's army and is jealous of Cassio's promotion to Lieutenant. Through deception and appearance, we see unfolded a plethora of lies and clever schemes. The astonishing thing about Iago is that he seems to make up his malicious schemes as he goes along without any forethought. Noted writer Samuel Taylor Coleridge describes Iago's plan as "motive-hunting of a motiveless malignity" (Scott 413). Iago seizes every opportunity to further advance his plan to his advantage. Greed plays a major role as a motive for his various schemes. Throughout the story, Iago portrays himself as a Satan figure. In many ways, Iago can compare with Satan.

Iago, like Satan, has proved himself to be a master at deception. He lies to everyone taking great care to disguise his own thoughts. For example, in Act 1, scene 2, when he is speaking to Othello about his feelings toward Cassio, he uses very strong language of a manly soldier, while at the same time, he lies throughout the whole speech


Parker 3

When devils will the blackest sins put on/ They do suggest at first with heavenly shows,/ As I do now: for whiles this honest fool/ Plies Desdimona to repair his fortunes/ And she for him pleads strongly to the Moor,/ I'll pour this pestilence into his ear. . . (II.iii.301-306)

Parker 5

This undoubtedly upsets Othello, thus showing that Iago's craftiness knows no bounds. He made Cassio appear dishonest by lying to Othello. Satan also uses appearance to create deception. We see an example of this when he tempts Eve in the garden. He uses the pleasing appearance of the fruit to deceive her.



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Approximate Word count = 1452
Approximate Pages = 6 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: Arts

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