Othello #1 (Iago's Motives)

            Iago has multiple motives for ruining Othello’s reputation. First, Iago resents Othello for naming Cassio as his lieutenant instead of him. Iago complains to Roderigo, “I know my price, and I am worth no worse a place” (1.1.12). Not only does Othello brush off the nobles who come to recommend Iago for lieutenancy, but he also elects Cassio, a man with no practical experience in war. Othello most likely decided to choose Cassio as his lieutenant because Cassio is a well-educated man who knows war theory. Since Othello has been in many wars, he does not need another officer to offer him advice based on experience, so Iago would not have been as helpful to him as a lieutenant. However, Iago sees Othello’s choice as offensive, and he wants revenge for the dishonor Othello causes him by not offering him the position. In addition, Iago harbors some jealousy toward Othello. In terms of the racial hierarchy of the time period, Othello should be Iago’s inferior. However, Othello has earned his elevated position in society through his skill and achievements. He is highly regarded by others in Venice, and Iago recognizes others’ favorable opinions toward him. Iago realizes that Othello will not be seriously punished for secretly marrying Desdemona because “Another of his fathom [the rulers of Venice] have none / To lead their business” (1.1.169-70). Othello is so vitally important to the war effort that Venice cannot afford to lose him. Iago resents this contrast between the weight Othello carries and the ease with which Othello ignored his desire to be lieutenant. In one sense, Iago resents his own admiration for Othello. Iago knows that Othello would never accept a position that he did not think he deserved, and he points out, “Were I the Moor I would not be Iago” (1.1.63). Iago recognizes Othello’s strength of character as well as his success. However, jealousy drives him to desire the destruction of Othello’s reputation and character. A final potential motivation for Iago to seek revenge on Othello is that “it is thought abroad that ’twixt [Iago’s] sheets / ’Has done [his] office” (1.3.430-31). Essentially, there is a rumor that Othello has had an affair with Iago’s wife. Iago has no idea whether this rumor is true, but he decides to act as though it is because it gives him another justification for his actions. Jealousy and resentment appear to be the primary motives for Iago’s plan to sabotage Othello.