Theme Of Masks In Othello

In Shakespeare’s Othello, we are given a handful of characters which have varying levels of innocence and mal-intent. Figuratively speaking, these characters put on masks to both hide their true intentions, or to honestly display authenticity. The brilliance of this play comes out in the way that Shakespeare manages to mix the two together. The innocent are seemingly deceptive and unfaithful, while the malicious are perceived with honest fidelity and good nature. Secondary characters of the play also use masks, though to a lesser degree, they still add drama to the tragedy. All characters have their own unique motivations for choosing which mask to put on, relative to their own self-interests. Thus, the masks used by the characters in Othello

His mask is very unique in that he is dependable and informative, yet he will stab you in the back the moment it becomes convenient for him. No man can be more two-faced when he has incredibly selfish desires, hidden under a veil of well-meaning intentions. The falsehoods of Iago are the driving force throughout the story, and his mask never changes because it serves a double-purpose. Roderigo, an initially well-intentioned man who is lovestruck for Desdemona, is corrupted by Iago’s deceptive lies. His mask portrays his sadness and melancholy behavior, seeking sympathy from the manipulative Iago. This was a big mistake, as Iago formulates his plan, Roderigo simply becomes a puppet to him. Thinking that with Iago’s help, Roderigo unknowingly permits Iago to change his mask. Anything that would be worth winning over Desdemona’s heart would be worth it to him, even killing Cassio. Iago exercises full control over Roderigo in this way, by preying upon his lust for

When Emilia asks who killed her, she states, “Nobody; I myself. Farewell. Commend me to my kind lord: O, farewell!”. This is ironic, because a dishonest person would not place the blame on themselves for their wrongdoings. She becomes the target of Othello’s unjustified contempt, yet she blames herself for being murdered in the end.

In regards to the pursuit of truth, Othello’s driving force in the play is his insatiable desire to actualize what he believes to be authentic. He wears a mask of integrity, honesty, and justice. With these exemplary values at the core of his character, it is no wonder that he is driven mad at the thought of Desdemona cheating on him for a lesser man. The truth that Othello believes to be the truth, is not in fact the truth, but merely a delusion. As Othello wears his mask that represent his desire for truth, he expects his subordinates to fulfill it. Already establishing trust with him, Iago fulfills Othello’s desire for truth in an exploitative manner. Iago is the most evil when he seems to be doing good. For Othello, Iago is merely an innocent bystander offering aid and doing his job. Figuratively speaking, Iago does not push Othello off the cliff, but instead convinces him that jumping is a rational course of