The Growing Theme Of Manipulation In Shakespeare's Othello

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William Shakespeare’s Othello chronicles the growing theme of manipulation through Iago’s deceit and his victim’s responses.

Beginning on a street in Venice,Italy, Roderigo and Iago converse with Desdemona’s father, Brabantio, to notify him of his daughter and Othello’s recent nuptials. Proceeding their conversation, Brabantio gathers men to confront Othello. Iago travels ahead of the group to warn Othello of the fateful encounter with Desdemona’s father. “ He prated and spoke such scurvy and provoking terms against your honor that, with the little godliness I have,I did full hard forbear him. But I pray you, sir, are you fast married? Be assured of this, that the magnifico is much beloved, and hath in his effect a voice potential as double …show more content…

However, Iago does not impede plans there; He begins to construed the mechanisms of “Desdemona and Cassio’s infidelity.” He convinces Cassio to plead for his career with Desdemona- “Our general’s wife is now the General.” (2.3:285) In attempt to help plead for Cassio’s lieutenancy, Desdemona is a persistent advocate for improving Othello and Cassio relation. However, after Iago plants a seed of doubt in Othello’s perception of Desdemona, her helpfulness becomes poisonous to her marriage; Othello begins to doubt her fidelity. “A liberal hand. The hearts of old gave hands, but our new heraldry is hands, not hearts.”Despite many significant remarks elucidating to Othello’s changing affections, Desdemona disregard of his growing cruelty highlights her youth; she believes he is not jealous. In conjunction, Desdemona presents controversial traits. While she is willing to elope in the dead of night, she is seemingly docile in her husband’s accusations of her infidelity. She does not confront him straightforward, but solely proposes the idea of the wedding sheets. Desdemona’s non-confrontational and trusting disposition contributes to the success of Iago’s disruption in her marriage. While he supports Othello’s growing jealousy, he encourage Desdemona’s trust in Othello.“ I pray you be content, ‘tis is but his humor. The business of state does him offense, and he does chide with you.” (4.2:165-167) Iago’s skillful manipulation of the couple’s weaknesses

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