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Iago's Insecurities In Othello

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Insecurities itself, possess numerous qualities and can extend from one’s success to a traumatic destruction for an individual. It is a prominent measure of an individual's emotional state that may be triggered by perceiving oneself to be inferior in some way. A sense of instability which may hold the potential of plaguing one's self-image can often lead to a tragic resolution. In the play Othello by “William Shakespeare”, Iago’s ability to form prudent decisions are overpowered by his vigorous hatred towards Othello and Cassio. Blinded by dreams of his glory, he fails to consider the consequences of his actions. As a result, Iago’s atrocious decisions are strongly influenced by the insecurities that further serve as a compelling source of …show more content…

His thought process seems irrational towards these individuals and is developed by his insecurities. To begin with, Iago is enraged by the rumors that exist of Othello sleeping with his wife, Emilia. Before the people of Venice head of to Cyprus, Iago considers these rumours to be true, “If I would time expend with such a snipe/ But for my sport and profit. I hate the Moor,/ And it is thought abroad that’ twixt my sheets/ He’s done my office. I know not if’t be true/ Yet I, for mere suspicion in that kind,/ Will do as if for surely” (1.3.376-381). Prejudicially, Iago expresses his jealousy as he accuses Othello of sleeping with his wife. His insecurities make him feel unmanly so he accepts the rumors to be true and uses it as motivation to empower his deceitful plans of ruining Othello's marriage. Lastly, Iago’s inadequacies are portrayed in the instances he attempts to hide his true identity from the other characters. When Othello questions Iago of his evil motives, he replies, “Demand me nothing; what you know, you know. From this time forth I never will speak word.”(5.2.300-301). Iago’s insecurities towards himself cause him to transform into a man who is absolutely afraid to show his true identity. A man is good till his reputation but when you allow your insecurities to overpower you that is when everything is bad

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