Examples Of Appearances Can Be Deceiving In Othello

In Shakespeare’s play Othello, Othello, a renowned and respected character, is duped by a vengeful Iago, causing his title and position to be stripped away. He ultimately participates in some unbelievable acts, including the murder of his own wife. Shakspeare explores the idea that appearances can be misleading throughout the play. It leads characters to perceive or behave in ways that are not in line with their inner emotions. Iago’s exchanges with Cassio, Roderigo, and Othello, closely prove the theme appearances can be deceiving.

Shakespeare uses Iago’s relationship with Roderigo to show how appearances can be deceiving. Even though Iago is such a sneaky character, readers were thinking that he might have actually had some human emotions

There is also the biggest example of betrayal when Iago stabs and kills Roderigo. Throughout the story Roderigo did all of Iago's dirty work for him. For example, fighting/provoking Cassio as well as stabbing Cassio later on. He believes that Iago is honestly looking out for him and giving him valuable advice. Before stabbing Roderigo Iago says, “O murd’rous slave! O villain!” (5.1.73) Roderigo responds by saying, “O damned Iago! O inhuman dog!” (5.1.74) Roderigo’s realization and response proves that he indeed had no clue of Iago’s plan and was beyond deceived. Once again, Iago deceives Roderigo and he is clueless. The interaction between Cassio and Iago is a direct example of this theme. Iago plays a big role in the development of conflict throughout the story. He manipulates Cassio, leading him in certain directions that he has set up in order to achieve his final goal. This being Iago getting Cassio’s job and practically ruining Othello's life. Iago strategically puts all of his ducks in a row by manipulating characters in his story. His first victim, Cassio. For his plan to work, he must get Cassio out of the way so he can take his place. Iago puts this in action when he

Iago proves that no matter your reputation, status, or self control, he can manipulate it all. Othello, known as valiant and confident, completely changes scales after his honest and trustworthy advisor deceives him time and time again. First, he trusts Iago to safely deliver his wife, Desdemona, from Venice to Cyprus. Othello says, “Honest, Iago, My Desdmeona must I leave to thee. I prithee let thy wife attend on her, And bring them after in the best advantage” (1.3.336-339) Calling Iago honest proves that he has no idea of his true intentions. Othello’s blindness to Iago's resentful manner causes him to have trust in him and makes him more susceptible to Iago's small suspicions and theories he creates; forming one huge lie. However, Iago feels the exact opposite as he appears to feel. He states,”I hate the Moor,” (1.3.429) Perspicuously a complete contrast to how he presents his feelings to everyone else, including Othello. In another sequence again Othello still struggles to see Iago’s true motives and still believes him to be honorable. He states, “Iago is most honest” (2.3.7). Othello fails to see that Iago practically hates his guts and has an entire plan to destroy his marriage and predominantly his life. Iago states, “After some time, to abuse Othello’s ear That he is too familiar with his wife” (1.3.438-439).Othello is calling Iago honest while Iago is plotting revenge against him. Othello is yet