Othello #2

            Iago is truly a master of manipulation. His skill comes from both observation and knowledge of human nature. Iago understands how people judge each other, and he uses this understanding to his advantage. Essentially, his strategy is to make others believe the worst of whomever he wants to sabotage. One of Iago’s first targets is Cassio, Othello’s second in command. Cassio seems to be incredibly polite and loyal, particularly to Othello. He desperately wishes for Othello to reach Cyprus safely, pleading, “O, let the heavens / Give him defense against the elements, / For I have lost him on a dangerous sea” (2.1.49-51). His actions never suggest any ill-will towards Othello, and it seems unlikely that he is secretly plotting behind Othello’s back like Iago. Just as he is quick to praise Othello, Cassio profusely complements Desdemona when he speaks of her. He tells Montano that Othello “hath achieved a maid / That paragons description and wild fame, / One that excels the quirks of blazoning pens, / And in the essential vesture of creation / Does tire the ingener” (2.1.67-71). Desdemona may truly be as amazing as Cassio describes her, Cassio may always look for the best in people and try to highlight their strengths, or Cassio may be attracted to Desdemona. At this point, however, nothing has suggested that Cassio wishes to steal Desdemona from Othello. Additionally, it is important to note that Cassio believes in extreme courtesy. He kisses Emilia when she arrives, and he takes Desdemona’s hand when Iago says insulting things about women to her. He is naturally very forward and well-mannered.   

            Iago takes note of Cassio’s nature, and he uses his observations to spin a tale for Roderigo. Pointing to Cassio’s behavior, Iago convinces Roderigo that Cassio is in love with Desdemona and that as soon as Desdemona tires of Othello, she will be swept up by him. Referring to when Cassio takes Desdemona’s hand, Iago asks Roderigo, “Didst thou / not see her paddle with the palm of his hand?” (2.1.275-6). Although Roderigo replies that it was just “courtesy,” he eventually comes to believe Iago’s story. However, Iago actually brought about the situation in the first place by making rude remarks to Desdemona. Roderigo does not think of this fact, and instead he has agreed to sabotage Cassio. Iago is in control of the situation, and he can convince other characters to do all of his work for him in order to exact his revenge.