Nuha Hasan

Dr. Linebaugh

HL English Literature

11/11/22

What this monologue almost immediately establishes about Iago is that he is a liar. This

is evidenced by his statement that “I do believe’t well that she loves him, ‘tis apt and of great

credit” (2.1.284). Iago is stating that he has evidence of Desdemona loving Cassio, however, this

can easily be disproven. Iago makes no reference to this supposed evidence in his previous

monologues or in his conversations with Roderigo (who knows of Iago’s manipulative nature).

This objectively false statement establishes Iago as someone whose words--even words spoken

only to himself--are not to be trusted. This establishment aids in the future characterization of

Iago, specifically when his character is complicated by the language he uses when referring to

Othello. Iago initially describes him as the “poor trash of Venice, whom I trace for his quick

hunting” (2.1.300-301). This metaphor supposedly establishes Iago as someone who views

Othello as a tool he can use to achieve his ambitions rather than someone he should respect.

However, this characterization is quickly discredited after Iago expresses his desires regarding

Othello by saying “make the Moor thank me, love me, and reward me” (2.1.305). This

juxtaposition raises suspicions in the audience about what Iago’s true motivations are and if he

really respects Othello, or if he views Othello as less than human.