The literary device of imagery allows an author using it, to enhance our understanding of the characters, plot or message in a written work. In the Shakespearean play Othello, Iago the antagonist, uses animal imagery to influence the actions of other men. Specifically, Iago uses animals as metaphors for people to manipulate others into helping him take spiteful revenge against the protagonist, Othello. The effectiveness of Iago’s use of animal imagery is especially apparent during his conversation with the racist, white, Venetian, Senator Brabantio. By metaphorically comparing Othello to animals in this conversation, Iago plays into Brabantio’s prejudice against Othello as a black-skinned and therefore subhuman, outsider. Iago says, “Even