Lago, the villain in Shakespeare's play "Othello," achieves a powerful position through a combination of several factors, which can be analyzed using C.T.P.L.A.C.E.S. Here's a breakdown: C - Characterization: Lago is characterized as a master manipulator who is able to deceive and manipulate those around him. He is shown to be cunning, deceptive, and highly skilled in the art of persuasion. His ability to manipulate others allows him to gain power over them. T - Theme: The themes of jealousy, betrayal, and revenge are central to the play, and Lago embodies all of these themes. He is consumed by jealousy and seeks revenge against Othello for promoting Cassio over him. He betrays those around him, including Othello and Cassio, in order to achieve his goals. …show more content…
He manipulates Othello into believing that Desdemona is unfaithful, which leads to Othello's tragic downfall. Lago's plans are carefully crafted and he is able to anticipate and counteract any attempts to thwart his schemes. L - Language: Lago's language is highly persuasive and he is able to manipulate others through his words. He uses rhetoric and wordplay to deceive those around him, and his language is often poetic and powerful. A - Audience: The audience is made aware of Lago's plans through soliloquies and asides, which creates dramatic irony. The audience knows more about Lago's true intentions than the other characters in the play, which creates a sense of tension and suspense. C - Context: The play is set in Venice during the late 16th century, a time when social status and reputation were highly valued. Lago's desire for power and revenge is fueled by his own sense of inadequacy and his desire to maintain his reputation. E - Emotion: Lago's actions elicit a range of emotions from the audience, including anger, disgust, and pity. His manipulative behavior and willingness to betray those around him make him a compelling and complex