How Does Iago Use Language In Othello

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The themes of written texts will be more compelling when the reader discerns careful language choices. In Othello, the themes of jealousy and responsibility are understood through the use of Shakespeare’s language choices for Iago and Othello. Language is carefully crafted to make the play more compelling. The text is written in such a way that the audience can look past characters appearances and question what it is to be human. The play puts us within a play as we are forced to watch Iago’s deception of Othello as he devolves and becomes jealous. Thus causing is downfall and loss of moral reputation. The audience is challenged to consider if we can really know anyone at all and how well could be contain could we contain our own faults if they are provoked. Jealousy is evident throughout the play. Iago’s speeches are often dark and it is his unpredictability…show more content…
“Nor for my manhood, honesty, and wisdom. To let you know my thoughts…”Oh, beware, my lord, of jealousy! It is the green-eyed monster which doth mock. The meat it feeds on.” Iago does not speak as softly as Othello but his words are also methodically thought out to compel Othello and the audience themselves. It is here when Iago finally hooks Othello into his plan and can start to manipulate him. The audience is placed in a play within a play as Iago continues to feed Othello’s jealous thoughts. We cannot see Cassio and Desdemona having an affairs however we are given vivid images of this, “Lie with her? Lie on her? We say lie on her when they belie her…It is not words that shake me thus. Pish! Nose, ears and lips..Confess, handkerchief! O devil.” Othello does not make sense. He cannot speak with clarity because he is so jealous making the audience question how noble he really is. Iago then says “Work on my medicine work!” as if he is responsible for Othello’s thoughts. However, it is Othello who has allowed his emotions to take over his

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