In all of Shakespeare none of his characters prove to be a greater villain than the manipulative Iago. In Shakespeare's Othello, Iago portrays the evil essence of the play and is the one responsible for the downfall of the characters. Unlike most villains Iago's intellect and knowledge of the other characters are his only devices. Iago uses these qualities to gain respect and loyalty while destroying their lives. Villains, for the most part, may use one or more of their enemies to get back at another, and this theory stays true in the play Othello. Iago achieves the goal of his plan by manipulating and exploiting the weaknesses and strengths of Roderigo, Cassio, and Othello.

             As the play begins we see Roderigo is Iago's first victim. Iago uses Roderigo's.

             love for Desdemona and his willingness to do anything for her as a way of funding for his.

             malicious plan. Iago has Roderigo duped. .

             "Thus do I ever make my fool my purse;.

             For I mine own gain'd knowledge should profane .

             If I would time expend with such a snipe But for my sport and profit, .

             I hate the Moor;" (Shakespeare 1.3.390-393).

             Iago keeps re-assuring Roderigo he is giving the money and jewels to Desdemona, which Roderigo is supplying to him, but in fact keeps it for himself. Through Iago's manipulations Roderigo is now broke, and has actually ruined his life, and Iago's profit is he has received funding for his plan. Roderigo cannot see this for his love for Desdemona blinds him.

             Even the well-mannered Cassio has now become a defenseless victim in Iago's malicious plan. Iago's hate for Cassio began when Iago himself was passed for a promotion over Cassio in Othello's command, thus his reason for hating both of his fellow soldiers and commitment to destroy their lives. Iago utilizes Cassio's good manners and courtly gestures as a way of making it seem as though Cassio is getting familiar with Desdemona, his commander's wife. .