Baylee Hayes

Revised AP Open-Ended Exam

William Shakespeares play Othello brings light to the controversial issues of trust and betrayal in
relationships. By introducing Iago the antagonistShakespeare unveils how easily people can be manipulated
and teaches us as an audience to guard our friendships. Iago lies to and deceives every character he comes in
contact with; his feigning nature brings a tragic end to the play and makes the audience wary of untruthful
friends.
Iagos feigning is evident from the very start of the play. The opening scene reveals Iagos motivation
throughout the entire playCassio received the lieutenant position he wanted. While talking with Roderigo, Iago
says he will put on a fake demeanor around Othello to gain his trust. Once that happens, Iago plans to get Cassio
removed from his position by getting him in a drunken fight on the job. Iago gets his way in Act II, and Othello
removes Cassio from lieutenancy due to his reckless behavior. Iago takes advantage of his friendship with Othello
and distorts the truth so Othello believes him without giving the situation a second thought.
Iagos bluff is easy to pick up on because the reader gets insight on both sides of him. This dramatic irony
is obvious in the climax of the play. In Act III, we see Iago pretend to help Othello get proof that Desdemona
cheated. Iago then misleads Othello to believe his conversation with Cassio was about his Othellos wife, when
they were really talking about Bianca. At this point in the play, Cassios already fired and removed from his
position, so why is Iago still being unscrupulous? Iagos selfish and egocentric nature mad him unwilling to end his
feigning; however, without him pretending to be a different person, Othello wouldnt be the same.
Iagos behavior in the play is unacceptable for a man commonly known as, honest Iago, but this actions
also play a crucial part in the tragedy. Without Iagos dishonesty, Shakespeares play would lack the catastrophic
elements that make this piece worthwhile.
Shakespeares use of this corrupt character is meaningful. He uses the misfortunes that fall upon the city
of Venice as a life lesson so that readers take heed in whom they trust and let influence their lives. Iagos feigning
serves as the tragedies catalyst as well as a message to the audience to keep their relationships guarded.
Othello uses Iago to reveal the consequences of a devious friend. Without Iago, the play would lack
motivation in plot as well as a moral to the story.