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Iago's Use Of Honesty In Othello

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Landyn Persicano
Mr. Spalding
Literature II
19 April 2023
Othello, Shakespeare, and Honesty
“Iago is most honest,” is one of the most uttered terms within the play Othello. Author Willam Shakespeare includes the word “honest” 51 times throughout the play. Shakespeare uses “honest” as an ironic phrase against the true intentions of the character, Iago. He also uses it in many ways which complete the irony and make the word truly stand out. This irony is included because of the effect it has on the audience and the other characters within the play.
Since the beginning of the play, Iago was labeled “honest Iago.” Othello did not see Iago's true intent, however this version of Iago was created out of jealousy. “And, good lieutenant, I think you think I love you.” (II.iii.) This is from …show more content…

Shakespeare wanted to bring in dramatic irony within the play. It enhances the tension between all of the characters. Iago being “honest”, creates a lot of understanding of how only the audience knows his negative intentions. However, the other characters had no idea he was behind a lot of mischief within the character grouping. This shows the irony of Iago being dishonest, creating dramatic irony toward the audience's feelings throughout the play. Iago, as the antagonist, strives to only get what he wants out of jealousy and greed. He believes that he can manipulate people and change their thoughts to get what he wants. For example, “But for my sport and profit. I hate the Moor, And it is thought abroad that 'twixt my sheets He has done my office. I know not if 't be true, But I, for mere suspicion in that kind, Will do as if for surety.”(1.3.429-433) This shows that Iago hates Othello for getting a promotion. He then switches his reasoning for hating Othello to a rumor he heard about Othello and Iago’s wife having an affair. Obviously, Iago was the problem, and was never held accountable for those

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