Examples Of Allusions In Othello

Biblical allusions are abound in Shakespeare’s play, The Tragedy of Othello, concerning all characters, both good and evil. However, the darker aspects of the bible, namely the topics of Hell and the devil are used in reference to more malignant acts and characters, none more so than to Iago. Allusions are used in Iago’s soliloquy on lines 354-359 and 371-372 refer to Iago’s devilish plots and motives in his plan against Othello, and in dialogues between Iago and Othello on lines 282 to 297-300 where Othello claims Iago is the devil. Shakespeare utilizes allusions to create a metaphorical connection between Iago and the devil within The Tragedy of Othello which ultimately suggests that Iago is inherently evil and has no real motive for deceiving

I know not if’t be true,

But I, for mere suspicion in that kind,

Will do, as if for surety. [. . .]

I have’t! It is engendered! Hell and night

Must bring this monstrous birth to the world’s light.

(1.3.354-59, 371-72)

By saying “ Hell and night / Must bring this monstrous birth to the world’s light,” Iago is admitting that he is doing wrong, as it is worthy of “hell and night” only. Using words like “monstrous” also has negative and demonesque connotations. Iago’s first assumed motive is revenge for Othello having slept with Emilia based on the lines, “‘twixt my sheets / H’as done my office.” However, he even admits that it is just a rumor, and he knows “ not if’t be true.” Despite this, Iago only mentions this rumor about Emilia once more in the entire play. To rationalize his malignant nature, Iago searches for half-motives such as his desire for Cassio’s power, of which he gets and then continues his wrongdoing, and revenge for ambiguous rumors.

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The invocation of biblical evil comes up again at the end of the play. As Othello learns that Iago was behind the entire plot and Desdemona is innocent, Othello starts alluding to the devil in reference to Iago. He starts by

I look down towards his feet-but that’s a fable [. . .]

Will you, I pray, demand that demi-devil

Why he hath thus ensnared my soul and body?

IAGO.

Demand me nothing. What you know, you know.

From this time forth I never will speak a