Julio

Julio Ibanez December 18, 2009 English Essay Deceptions in Character Iago appears as a masterful manipulator as well as a deceptive character, as a result from pushing further the disinclination and uncertainty of other characters. He realizes the type of relationship that exists between the other characters of the book, and uses that for his advantage. Often exploiting other’s weakness for his benefit. As the story progresses, the protagonist unravels his master plan, and no one suspects it’s him. Iago was able to successfully execute his devious plot by misdirecting people from his true self. Misrepresentation is a prominent them throughout the book, Characters are not what they seem, and others aren’t able to justify it, simply because they disguise themselves under a mask of deception.  This villain is what many called a “puppet master”, exploiting many different characters, for his own satisfaction. Just like Desdemona, Othello, Iago, Roderigo etc, each one of them, has their own flaws and weakness, yet they never show it. Characters like Othello, who were seen as an uneducated, and unfit person based on many preconceived notions during that particular time, were an easy prey for Iago to manipulate. Othello tries fabricating this image as a soft-spoken person, with good intentions, but this perception that many characters have of him is rather false, as later on the story he unravels his true side. This prominent theme is surfaced from the villainy of Iago, who feeds on the insecurities of many  “Look to her, Moor, if thou hast eyes to see, She has deceived her father, and may thee…  --My life upon her faith! Honest Iago”. (Shakespeare 333- 335) Right from the start, Iago beings to put his plan into effect, by creating some sort of inhibition in Othello. He makes Othello think, if Desdemona deceive her father, what will stop her deceiving him as well.. If she was able to do that to her own blood, does he believe that it would makes his position any different. Othello slowly begins to doubt his relationship with Desdemona, causing for insecurities to arise. Roderigo states “ I will do this, if I can bring it to any opportunity”. (137) Iago replies with the intent to deceive “That Cassio loves her, I do well believe it; That she loves him, 'tis apt and of great credit: The Moor, howbeit that I endure him not, Is of a constant, loving, noble nature, And I dare think he'll prove to Desdemona A most dear husband. Now, I do love her too; not out of absolute lust, though peradventure I stand accountant for as great a sin, but partly led to diet my revenge.” (137) This dialogue clearly emphasizes how devious Iago proves to be. This here is a perfect example of how Iago tries to initiate a feud between two characters. Iago knows that Roderigo is in love with Desdemona, and that Cassio has had a thing Desdemona. He realizes that this could start a conflict, and so he creates lies to tie these problems together and create a dispute. As soon as a dispute arises, Iago tries to seem as a good-hearted person to misdirect others from his true self. As I mentioned before, Iago likes to feed off the insecurities and weakness of many characters, in this case, Roderigo. He knows that Roderigo is deeply in love with Desdemona, and he uses that as his advantage. Iago manipulates Roderigo with the idea that he might actually get Desdemona if he is to abide to every thing Iago ask for. Iago knew that Roderigo had feelings for Desdemona, based on all his actions and ways of expression. As a master manipulator, he saw Roderigo as easily exploited person, and used his one possible desire against him. Iago tries to seem as a good-hearted person, who would never tell a lie, and Othello as an easy prey falls for it. Iago tells Othello “My lord, you know I love you.” (134) Because of the image that Iago tries procreate; Othello begins to buy into Iago’s lies and accepting every false statement as the truth. Othello replies to Iago “I think thou dost; and for I know though ‘rt full of love and honesty and weigh’st thy words before giv’st them breath,” (138.) Othello has given his full trust to Iago based on his misrepresentations in conduct. This is when Othello beings to be consumed by Iago’s words This prominent theme elaborates on the key fact that the misrepresentation is used as a way to misdirect many characters from the real image of Iago. It is the lack of communication and knowledge that contributes to the semi- successful scheme. Many, unfortunately trust Iago, which leads them to their downfall. This idea that Iago is a trustworthy person is a misleading concept. Because many believed that this was so, it made these characters an easy prey for Iago. Temptation was one of the blunders that many characters made. This feeling of temptation made it easier for Iago to figure exactly what many wanted. Which is why he was able to persuade Roderigo of the seemingly attachment between Cassio and Desdemona so effectively. The feelings of temptation all derived from the desires that many of the characters wanted; whether it be material necessities, or even love companions. Iago knew exactly what many wanted, and used that as a way to manipulates others, as well as deceive them. Iago deceives many by appearing to be good hearted, faithful, and honest person; even though he is both mischievous, and intelligent. Both his subtle intelligence, and wits have to an extent; created among conflicts with various characters. Causing signs of jealously, insecurities and egos to arise. As a result, murder and death. In conclusion, I feel that misrepresentation is a major theme clearly emphasized with each event that occurs in the book. Othello with his clouded conscious kills Desdemona, with hopes of reliving that pain and insecurity that he felt. As you can see, misrepresentation is what I believe, to be the reason as to why Iago’s schemes work so well. His almost flawless plan was from his quick wits, and clear judgment of others. Iago is a devious character, and he knows exactly how to manipulate other people. I believe it is because the trust that they instill in him. Throughout the entire book Iago has always tried to appear as an honest man, only there to make situations “ better”. Iago mentions several times that he is an honest man “ I am an honest man, I thought you had received some bodily wound." (285) This false image of honesty has not only allowed for Iago to successfully manipulate other characters, but also arise any insecurity and emotions relevant to that. As a result, misrepresentation has allowed for many characters to place their trust in a mischievous character, who in the end created so much chaos and even death.