First impressions of Iago and Othello Essay

In the play Othello, our first impression suggests that Iago and Othello are visualised as having somewhat opposite qualities.Iago is first shown to be false and pretentious. even though he says I will wear my heart upon my limb, giving the impression that he shows all his emotions willingly, he is then shown to be quite secretive and deceitful, plotting against Othello, Casio and Rodriguo, emphasising his ambitious nature. Furthermore we get the impression that he is spiteful and racist, building up his hatred and jealousy towards Othello, I hatred the Moor.We also get the impression that Iago is manipulative. Firstly, he promises Rodriguo Desdemona in issuance for his aid, luring him into his grasp using one of Rodriguos desires, It cannot be long that Desdemona should celebrate her love to the Moor put money in thy purse. This effectively turns Rodriguo into a tool for Iagos deeds. Following that, he uses his trust to falsify Othello into becoming suspicious of Desdemona, and undermining his faith in his wife.An otherwise one of Iagos main features that we are presented with is that he is quite devious and blind. He says himself I am not what I am, and in his soliloquies he contemplates his cunning plans, to plume up my will in double knavery. How? How? Lets see. Despite this, Othello still refers to him as Honest Iago.Othello, on the other hand, is shown to be a very much more simple man, who is eloquent and much more admired. We get the impression that he looks for a sensible, balanced exposition for things. However his simple nature acts as a catalyst to pretend many of his weaknesses.His lack of confidence in social situations causes him to become over-trusting and nave, leading to his poor judgment. He does not suspect Iago at all, and overlooks the contingency that Iago may not be acting in Othellos interest, referring to him as A man of honesty and trust.