Similarities Between Iago And Othello - 1014 Words

Ill luck? In comparing the so called â€Å"villains† of Shakespeare’s two plays, The Merchant of Venice and Othello, we see similarities and differences between the two villains. The first similarity being that both villains seek revenge. Shylock seeks revenge on Antonio, he wants â€Å"an equal pound of his flesh† (1.3.146). Iago as well seeks the destruction and death of his adversary, Othello. Other similarities we see is that they are both ruthless, merciless and even barbaric at times. Shylock will not stop until Antonio is dead, likewise Iago will also not stop until Othello is dead. However, when comparing their characteristics, one will see they are very different people. Shylock is more anthropomorphic, we also often we find him in a†¦show more content†¦(4.1.345-355) A very interesting â€Å"characteristic† of Iago is his reputation for being a very honest man. This status given to him is entirely the opposite of his real nature. I would like to look at this aspect of his character for a moment as well as why he is so trusted. The latter comes from the former because if one has a reputation for honesty he will be trusted. Iago has a great reputation for honesty, how is this possible for a man we know so well to be a liar? In order for one to have a reputation for honesty one must have first been honest for a considerable amount of time. How can one be known for honesty while being a liar his whole life? It is not possible. One must first be honest in order to acquire that prestige. This causes me to believe that Iago was once an honest man. It is not known when he commenced his evil ways, but it is plausible that once he did not receive the position that he thought rightfully his, he changed his way of life right there and then. We cannot tell what it was but we can recognize that at some point in his life he was very honest. Another of Iago’s interesting characteristics is the way he abuses his reputation. He uses the fact that everyone trusts him to his advantage. IAGO. and did you see the handkerchief? OTHELLO. Was that mine? IAGO. Yours, by this hand! And to see how he prizes the foolish woman your wife! SheShow MoreRelatedSimilarities And Differences Between Iago And Othello1094 Words   |  5 Pages The tragedy of Othello is not just a story of jealousy but rather a clash of two worlds. In Shakespearean plays we many times see the protagonist fall due to deceit, human flaws, and corruption of their society. We specifically see the hero fall in Shakespeares Othello as a man trying to be himself with a corrupt friendship in Iago. Othello is seen to be the noble moor of Venice. He is respected by society for his many actions of nobility and bravery. Iago on the other hand is the villain plottingRead MoreOthello Character Analysis905 Words   |  4 Pagesâ€Å"The Tragedy of Othello†, Iago successfully manipulates Cassio various times. 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