Iago In Othello

Physiological View of Iago Throughout Shakespeare’s play, Othello, there has been ongoing debate and questioning on the topic of Iago’s mental state as he is characterized by a variety of poor qualities. The reader may criticize the play in a psychological manner as Iago exhibits traits of selfishness as well as misogyny. Together, these traits lead Iago to become the Machiavellian in the story due to his ability to exploit other characters flaws and use his wit and charm to deceive them in the search for his own personal gain. All together, through a psychological eye, there is proof that Iago is indeed mentally unstable and could even be classified as a sociopath. All the turmoil and trouble intentionally caused by Iago throughout the

Misogyny, expressed how Iago does it, is also a major sign of being a sociopath or being mentally unstable (“NPDFamily”, 2007). For the reader, the first sign of Iago’s misogyny is his original stereotypical criticism towards woman when he is quoted as saying, to Emilia, “you are pictures out of door, bells in your parlors, and wildcats in your kitchens…” (II.I.67) as he treats his own wife, with no love, dignity, or respect regardless of her obvious love directed towards Iago throughout the story. Instead of returning the favor, Emilia is lied to and used to Iago’s advantage as she receives and gives Iago a sought after handkerchief owned by Othello, to unknowingly play a massive part in her husband’s scheme. In consequence to these actions however, the final scene of the story she is stabbed and killed by Iago after she exposes him to other characters for his deception. At this point, Iago has killed his own wife without remorse or hesitation yet adding to the possibility that he is a misogynist as well as a sociopath. It is obvious that Iago sees the male gender much above women as he also says things