“But he, sir, had th’
election; And I, of whom his eyes had seen the proof At Rhodes, at Cyprus, and
on other grounds” (I, I, 28-30).
Iago expresses his anger about Othello’s decision to
choose Cassio instead of him. Iago explains that he is more qualified, because
of his experience. Iago explains that
his anger stems from Cassio getting the promotion, and that these feelings are
the reason he is seeking revenge on Othello. Iago is explaining his motive to
Roderigo, and the conversation seems
like a set-up, because Roderigo is in love with Desdemona, which makes him an
easy person to manipulate against Othello. Iago could then be covering up his
real motive for seeking revenge on Othello.
“And it is thought
abroad that ‘twixt my sheets ’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” (I, III, 430-433).
Iago explains another possible motive at the end of the
act, when he proclaims that Othello might have slept with his wife. Iago has
only heard this rumor, and has not confirmed the suspicion, but instead of
looking into the rumor, he is simply going to act on the information, as if it
were true. Iago seems to be desperately searching for reasons why he should
hate Othello and take revenge on him. His logic does not make any sense, and
all his motives seem to be excuses for his hatred. None of his specified
motives are consistent with his deep hatred, and it could be possible that he
is unwilling to admit to himself why he hates Othello, or that he has no true
motive for ruining Othello’s life.
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