Desdemona's Failure In Othello

Imagine being controlled by one person, but not even knowing it. Thoughts and actions are directed by one person’s scheme. People are turning against each other and relationships are ending because of just one person. This is what’s happening in William Shakespeare’s Othello, and Iago’s manipulative actions prove that individual’s success comes from another’s failure. The failure of Desdemona and Othello’s relationship is one example of Iago’s success. Early on in the play, the reader learns that Othello and Desdemona are in love with each other. However, since Othello is a Moor, their marriage would go against social norms and Desdemona’s father’s approval. When they’re married, Desdemona declares to her father, Brabantio, “How to respect

On a night out, Iago offers Cassio a drink, but Cassio confesses, “Not tonight good Iago. I have very poor and / unhappy brains for drinking” (2.3.34-35). In other words, Cassio does not want to get drunk. But, later on, he is another victim of Iago’s plan, and while talking to Roderigo, Iago voices, “If I can fasten but one cup upon him / With that which he hath drunk tonight already, / He’ll be as full of quarrel and offense” (2.3.49-52). Iago is saying that if he is able to get him drunk, he will become aggressive, and ultimately make a fool of himself. This is exactly what Iago wants, but Cassio does not know that. Iago wins by getting Cassio drunk because, once again, his plan is falling into place. He manipulates Cassio this way so he picks a fight and then stir up trouble with Othello. Then, Desdemona will defend Cassio, leaving Othello jealous. This all seems too far fetched, but in Iago’s eyes, it is the perfect plot. To his benefit, this is exactly what happens. In this situation Cassio is publicly embarrassed and ruins the reputation he has. To add, he also loses his position in the army which is what Iago wants. To summarize, Iago succeeds while damaging Cassio’s