OTHELLO ESSAY: Othello is not responsible for his tragic fate

Question 1

Paragraph 1: Iago planned Othello’s downfall

Othello is inherently trusting and honest, but Iago identifies these qualities as vulnerabilities to exploit.

By recognising Othello’s integrity, Iago weaponises it against him, turning trust and virtue into instruments of destruction.

Answer 1

Iago admits, “Or, failing so, yet that I put the Moor at least into a jealousy so strong that judgment cannot cure” (Act 2, Scene 1), revealing the deliberate and calculated nature of his manipulation.

He observes, “The Moor is of a free and open nature / That thinks men honest that but seem to be so, / And will as tenderly be led by th’ nose / As asses are” (Act 1, Scene 3).

Othello is not naturally jealous; he is inflamed by Iago’s careful orchestration, showing that the tragedy stems from external malevolence rather than personal weakness.

Question 2

Paragraph 2: There was no reason for Othello to distrust Iago

Iago does not truly display who he is– as that is to display vulnerability. Iago declares his intent to disguise his true self and manipulate others.

Answer 2

Multiple characters echo “honest Iago” throughout the play.

“For when my outward action doth demonstrate the native act and figure of my heart In compliment extern, ’tis not long after But I will wear my heart upon my sleeve For daws to peck at.”

Othello cannot reasonably suspect a man so universally trusted, and blaming him for being manipulated is to punish a character for a natural and morally commendable trait: honesty and faith in others.

Question 3

PAR 3: Iago as a supernatural force of evil.

Iago is the manifestation of the Devil. Hell and darkness will aid Iago in destroying morality (world’s light) with his monstrous plan.

A direct inversion of God’s words in Exodus (“I am that I am”), presenting Iago as blasphemous and devil-like.

Iago’s choice of God to swear on reflects his own duplicity. He swears to prove sincerity, but by a God of contradictions and deceit. It is ironic.

Answer 3

“Hell and night must bring this monstrous birth to the world’s light.”

“I am not what I am”

“By Janus, I think no.”

Through these examples, Shakespeare frames Iago as more than a man — he is a nearly supernatural embodiment of evil, against which Othello, however virtuous, cannot contend.