Othello 1

 Original Depictions:

       Iago is a character of mystery, deceit, and sorrow. The play begins with a conversation between Roderigo and Iago, where Roderigo is flustered and agitated by the marriage of Othello and Desdemona. Iago claims that he had no prior knowledge of their marriage, and even becomes offended at the thought. The reader can sense a tension stemming from Iago towards Othello when Iago starts complaining about how he was not chosen as lieutenant: "I know my price, I am worth no worse a place" (1.1.10). Although Iago is not selected as lieutenant, he remains under the command of Othello, the man he supposedly abhors. His reasoning is quite simple: "I follow him to serve my turn upon him" (1.1.40). It has not yet been disclosed to the reader why Iago views Othello with such contempt. The relationship between Roderigo and Iago is solely existent because of their connection of a common enemy; they will support each other in the hopes of destroying Othello. The reader begins to question the source Iago's anger and hatred towards Othello, and Iago colloquially hints at the answer: "And it is thought abroad that 'twixt my sheets/ He has done my office" (1.3.380-1) implying that Othello may have slept with Iago's wife. Iago presents himself as selfish and manipulative, but there is the possibility that his actions are generated by the loneliness and betrayal felt from an unfaithful partner. The first impressions of Iago in Act 1 depict him as a revengeful and self-centered man, but I predict that as the play unravels we will begin to unravel the explanation behind his actions.