Hello and welcome to another episode of Othello Exposed, where we delve beneath the words and into the mind of Shakespeare to see the meaning behind his plays.
As discussed in our recent episode The making of show, back in 1604 when Othello was first performed there were many racial ideologies towards black Africans–although they were not yet regarded as slaves, ‘the black race was considered inferior’ (shakespearetheater.org). Shakespeare was inspired and constantly looked to challenge his audience to reconsider cultural norms. Therefore, he wrote Othello, a play about a usurper whose hunger and craving for power eventually caused the downfall of the kingdom. This usurper, possibly the most fascinating character in the play, is known as Iago: …show more content…
Shakespeare constructed Iago as an intelligent usurper whose cunning plans would not be undone by other characters, however his careful consideration into Iago’s character allowed him to exploit his personal and internal weaknesses to show that power will always corrupt in some way. Act 2, scene 1, line 158 demonstrates a clear example of how other character’s comments can have a significant impact on Iago internally, when Desdemona says ‘O, most lame and impotent conclusion!’ Whilst this quote is not directly describing Iago as a person, the audience are able to understand that Iago believes that this is what he is becoming and therefore decides to seek revenge on all who wrongly accuse him. The quick and somewhat spontaneous aggression in the words ‘lame’ and ‘impotent’, suggest Desdemona’s sudden vexation with Iago. These words are both synonymous with being disabled or lacking power and ability. They therefore portray a perspective of Iago’s character as being utterly powerless. This point is furthered in Act 3, Scene 3, when Iago warns Othello of Jealousy and claims that ‘it is the green eyed monster which doth mock the meat it feeds on’. Shakespeare has employed the literary device of ambiguity here to show a contrasting view to this quote. Whilst Iago is warning Othello not to become the green eyed monster, the audience can also see that this may actually be an inward reflection of his own insecurities, therefore proving and exposing Iago’s own jealous flaws. The strong consonant sounds of k,th and t show a side of aggression that Iago portrays. As we have established, this metaphor is a reflection of Iago’s inner self and therefore shows his aggression and distaste towards his own self. This point further promotes the idea that an insistent need for power eventually ends in