In the comment section below you will find the full text versions of Iago's soliloquies as well as the cropped versions we created in class.
Argue for one or two of the discarded lines to be added back into the soliloquy. What is lost/changed if this line is discarded? Comment on the lines' connections to the development of ideas, motifs, mood, characterization, or plot concerns of the play. Use persuasive language -- you goal is to convince your classmates to put it back! What is at stake here?
Post your argument by replying to the soliloquy you are discussing.
Iago’s monologue to Roderigo, act 1 scene 1
ReplyDeleteO, sir, content you;
I follow him to serve my turn upon him:
We cannot all be masters, nor all masters
Cannot be truly follow'd. You shall mark
Many a duteous and knee-crooking knave,
That, doting on his own obsequious bondage,
Wears out his time, much like his master's ass,
For nought but provender, and when he's old, cashier'd:
Whip me such honest knaves. Others there are
Who, trimm'd in forms and visages of duty,
Keep yet their hearts attending on themselves,
And, throwing but shows of service on their lords,
Do well thrive by them and when they have lined
their coats
Do themselves homage: these fellows have some soul;
And such a one do I profess myself. For, sir,
It is as sure as you are Roderigo,
Were I the Moor, I would not be Iago:
In following him, I follow but myself;
Heaven is my judge, not I for love and duty,
But seeming so, for my peculiar end:
For when my outward action doth demonstrate
The native act and figure of my heart
In compliment extern, 'tis not long after 65
But I will wear my heart upon my sleeve
For daws to peck at: I am not what I am
CUT UP VERSION
DeleteI follow him to serve my turn upon him:
All masters cannot be truly follow'd
Many a duteous and knee-crooking knave,
Wears out his time, much like his master's ass,
Others there are
Who, trimm'd in forms and visages of duty,
Keep yet their hearts attending on themselves,
And, throwing but shows of service on their lords,
Do well thrive by them
These fellows have some soul;
In following him, I follow but myself;
For when my outward action doth demonstrate
The native act and figure of my heart
I am not what I am
*****************************************************************************
O, sir, content you;
But seeming so, for my peculiar end:
We cannot all be masters, nor
And such a one do I profess myself.
Whip me such honest knaves.
For, sir,
It is as sure as you are Roderigo,
For nought but provender, and when he's old, cashier'd:
Do themselves homage:
But seeming so, for my peculiar end:
Were I the Moor, I would not be Iago:
Heaven is my judge, not I for love and duty,
In compliment extern, 'tis not long after
But I will wear my heart upon my sleeve
For daws to peck at:
and when they have lined their coats
. You shall mark
That, doting on his own obsequious bondage,
"Heaven is my judge, not I for love and duty,"
DeleteThis phrase which Iago voices during his soliloquy may be of significant importance in the text, and could be re-added. It helps to demonstrate the deep inward belief he has in his own personal philosophy. He is saying that He should not and does not care about things like love and duty because he does't have to and he believes its not his place. Instead, he claims that the only force that has any power over him is "heaven". In other words, he does what he wants and doesn't care about the consequences. By removing this line, and others like it, we lose this sense of belief, which is important in establishing a character's personality.If others were to argue that it isn't essential, that there are other passages still in the text that were not removed and show this as well, I would have to argue back that the phrases they refer to demonstrate self confidence rather than belief. These are two different aspects of personality, and keeping this phrase out removes one of these traits.
“But I will wear my heart upon my sleeve
DeleteFor daws to peck at”
This quote seems to be one that can be added back in due to the fact that it is an important quote that uses descriptive language to give us an insight into Iago’s feelings and thoughts. When he says that he will wear his heart upon his sleeve, he is saying that he will express his emotions freely, for all to see and at the same time allow others to pick away at it (for daws to peck at). He is saying that the day he decides to do this, it will be the day that makes him most vulnerable and with the implication, of course, that this day will never come. If this line is cut, we lose Iago’s clever language use and his foretelling of what he will not ever do. We will also lose some further information about Iago’s character and how he is deceptive, never letting others see the real him.
"And when they have lined their coats
DeleteDo themselves homage"
Although it succeeded in shortening the soliloquy, the removal of this line also brought with it the removal of an important point in Iago's idea. In this part of his speech, Iago is talking about the two kinds of people in Othello's army: the ones truly loyal and who bow to their master's every whim, and the ones only pretending to be loyal, but at any moment will abandon the army. Without this line, all that is clarified is that the disloyal ones will "keep their hearts attending on themselves," and "[throw] but shows of service on their lords." However, this phrase adds to it the sense of when it is that they will leave: when they have filled their pockets, and that lets the reader in on another, more menacing side of this soldier. Also, this line suggests that such an action truly is best for the person, describing the action of leaving the army as "do[ing] themselves homage." Therefore, without this line, the soliloquy loses meaning, and as a result it would be beneficial to add it back in to the cropped version.
“We cannot all be masters...”
DeleteI think that this line really needs to be kept in in order to help make some sense of Iago’s actions. Without it, it makes Iago seem more like a traitorous, untrustworthy loser. But I feel that if one includes this line, we get a better view that Iago is not exactly untrustworthy, he just resents the fact that he lacks power he’s like to have. He feels that he didn’t get his full share of what he deserves, given the experience he has in fighting wars. That said there could be arguments made to say that given what he says after about types of servitude, it’s unnecessary. He states that the servants who are crafty end up better off. However he does not give any logic to back this up, so that claim might as well be ignored. So it’s fairly clear that this line adds an extra dimension to Iago’s personality that cannot be proved without it.
"And such a one do I profess myself."
DeleteThis line is not NECESSARY (you could argue that the only necessary line in this soliloquy is "I follow him to serve my turn upon him"), however it does show that he not only thinks that the people who serve themselves are good ("have some soul!") but also that he thinks that he is one of these people. He also doesn't say that he is one of these people, he "professes" that he is one of these people. I think this word usage is important because it shows he has no shame for being one of these people. When he says that it's not like he's hiding the fact. He really seems proud of it, even though he's basically calling himself selfish. If you skip over him saying this, you could probably assume he's talking about how he is like the people who "have some soul," but this line definitely affirms it. Otherwise, it seems like he just randomly rambles about people who use others, and then goes on to talk about how he follows himself and no one else.
“and when they have lined their coats”
DeleteThis line in the soliloquy given by Iago to Rodrigo in the first scene should not have been removed to shorten and condense the meaning because it is very important to the overall meaning of the piece. In this soliloquy Iago is telling Rodrigo how he is betraying Othello and not really working for him but just working for him to serve his own purposes. The phrase to “line your coats”,(very similar to the phrase “to line your pockets”,) is a way for Iago to tell the audience that he is always only working for his own gains and profit no matter what he seems to be doing for the good of others throughout the book. This line in a way is also sort of a warning to Rodrigo that he shouldn’t be trusted, but Rodrigo doesn’t pick up on it. In a way, this line foreshadows the future malice of Iago throughout the play and it is harmful to the soliloquy to have it removed.
Fareena Aslam
Delete"We cannot all be masters.."
I think this line is a vital part of this soliloquy. Previously in this scene, Iago is very angry about him not getting a promotion in the army and being replaced by some intellect who has had no experience on the battlefield. We basically see Iago expressing his anger and discontent for what has happened. He speaks highly of himself and states that what he does is solely for himself and that he's not below anyone. This line shows himself entering the realm of reality. He's treading the idea that no matter what happens and how hard one tries, there's something separating you from becoming another person, and that is yourself. Even though Iago was shown to be very a very selfish, arrogant and prideful person, this line shows the side of Iago that's a little real. He knows what he is and has accepted the fact that there will always be someone above him. This line also might be a representation of a very clear social structure that may have existed at that time. This line can be interpreted in many ways that help us better understand the character and maybe even the setting and I think it is important that it be included in the edited soliloquy.
"We cannot all be masters"
DeleteSarah Cook
This line should be added back into the soliloquy. When Iago says this line he is talking about the lack of power. Iago is lacking some sort of power that he craves. He doesn't get the promotion that he believes he deserves, and from this he states how not everyone can be "masters" or superior, or even on top. Iago wants power that he doesn't have or may never have. He wants to be recognized for his accomplishments on the battle field. Although he contradicts himself when he says that the servants may go farther in life or be better off.This line portrays an important part of who Iago's personality.
"We cannot all be masters"
DeleteIn this passage, Iago is saying things that will make himself feel better about himself. The entire passage is saying how he feels his methods of manipulation are what every man should do, and that everything he is doing is right and with that, everything everyone else is doing is wrong. He says that the ways other servants live by being completely submissive are what leaves them to be nothing more than animal feed. He in comparison is a scheming and untrustworthy person that is doing everything is his own favor to get to the top. He is saying throughout the whole quote how although he isn't a master, he is wise and fine enough to reach the top. And with this line missing, you don't get the context and the obstacles that caused Iago to have to strive for success. Also with this line omitted, you lose the repetition that really emphasizes iago's lowly origins and how they have put him in a place that requires him to be deceitful and cruel.
Patrick Chi
Delete"Heaven is my judge, not I for love and duty"
Throughout this monologue by Iago, he is complaining about the fact that Othello didn’t give him the position of Lieutenant, but instead gave it to a “less-experienced” tactician, Michael Cassio. In addition to this, Iago tries to “justify” the fact that he did not get the position by saying that people who are “followers” do not have a heart or soul.
This leads to the part where the above quote was deleted, which was a huge mistake. When Iago says that “Heaven is [his] judge,” he is basically saying that he is going to do what he wants to do, because that is what he believes is right. Furthermore, he adds the line “not I for love and duty.” This further emphasizes Iago’s views because he is saying that he does not do things out of “love and duty.” In other words, Iago didn’t do what Othello told him to do out of loyalty, but it was actually an act of deception, to make Othello trust him.
With this in mind, it is clear that this line cannot be omitted from Iago’s soliloquy. This line describes Iago’s thought process in his act to deceive Othello, which is clearly significant to the story.
Iago’s soliloquy at the end of act 1 scene 3:
ReplyDeleteThus do I ever make my fool my purse:
For I mine own gain'd knowledge should profane,
If I would time expend with such a snipe.
But for my sport and profit. I hate the Moor:
And it is thought abroad, that 'twixt my sheets
He has done my office: I know not if't be true;
But I, for mere suspicion in that kind,
Will do as if for surety. He holds me well;
The better shall my purpose work on him.
Cassio's a proper man: let me see now:
To get his place and to plume up my will
In double knavery—How, how? Let's see:—
After some time, to abuse Othello's ear
That he is too familiar with his wife.
He hath a person and a smooth dispose
To be suspected, framed to make women false.
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 the nose
As asses are.
I have't. It is engender'd. Hell and night
Must bring this monstrous birth to the world's light
Thus do I ever make my fool my purse:
DeleteI hate the Moor:
He has done my office: I know not if't be true;
But I, for mere suspicion in that kind,
Will do as if for surety. He holds me well;
Cassio's a proper man:
To get his place and to plume up my will
In double knavery
After some time, to abuse Othello's ear
He hath a person and a smooth dispose
To be suspected, framed to make women false.
The Moor is of a free and open nature,
That thinks men honest that but seem to be so,
And will tenderly be led by the nose
These are the discarded lines:
Delete********************************************************************************************************
let me see now:
For I mine own gain'd knowledge should profane,
If I would time expend with such a snipe.
—How, how? Let's see:—
The better shall my purpose work on him.
But for my sport and profit.
That he is too familiar with his wife.
And it is thought abroad, that 'twixt my sheets
I have't. It is engender'd. Hell and night
Must bring this monstrous birth to the world's light
As asses are.
as
"But for my sport and profit"
DeleteI believe that this line is quite important to this soliloquy because without it, Iago's thought is incomplete. This thought is expressed from the second line of the soliloquy to the fourth. These lines basically state that Iago would never spend so much time with this idiot (Roderigo), if he wasn't getting anything (in this case money) out of it. Without the quote "But for my sport and profit", this quote would no longer make sense, it would be an incomplete thought. Although this thought in it's entirety seems quite insignificant, I believe that it is important in the characterization for Iago. This line shows the reader that Iago wouldn't want to help Roderigo at all if it weren't for the money he was being paid. There is no part of him that seems to care at all about Roderigo's problems, or really any other character's problems. This quote shows that Iago has no desire whatsoever to help anyone if he gets nothing out of it (which coincidentally reminds me of Randism). Iago seems to take it even a step further because he seems to actually enjoy causing problems for other people, rather than help solving them. This is what characterizes Iago and makes him a true villain, which is why I believe that line should be kept in the soliloquy.
"That he is too familiar with his wife."
DeleteI believe that this quote is important because this line is a key detail of Iago's plan to deceive Othello of Desdemona's cheating. Othello's tight attachment to Desdemona is what Iago is planning to use to manipulate Othello. Without this line you can't see what Iago is planning because you don't know how he's really going to carry out his plan to get back at Othello. This quote also shows that Othello has been very close to Desdemona as he's only been married to her for a not too long. Also without this quote in the context of this quote in the soliloquy the lines before it and after it wouldn't make too much sense. The line before it says "After some time, to abuse Othello's ear" as this line before it indicates that Iago is planning to abuse Othello by using his close relationship to Desdemona. This quote reminds me of a classic super hero comic or movie. It's related to it because of the hero's love to a certain women and when the villain comes to find out who she is they manipulate the hero by using her. This is a reoccurring theme that is used in many love stories that involve a hero and a villain. This quote must be put back into the soliloquy so that you can figure out how Iago will manipulate Othello so that he can get his revenge.
"The better shall my purpose work on him."
DeleteWithout this quote, Iago's soliloquy lacks the clarity and detail it needs to properly convey it's meaning. Iago, through careful manipulation, has convinced Othello and the others that he is a man to be trusted. Now that Othello "holds [him] well," Iago can easily begin to convince Othello of the treachery of Desdemona and Cassio. Now that all of the pawns of his plot completely trust him, he can begin to enact it. However, without this line, Iago's purpose in convincing Othello to trust him can become muddled to the reader/audience. It does not make sense for him to jump from talking about the false trust Othello has put in him to the high position Cassio holds; this line is neccessary to accurately convey what Iago is trying to say.
"For I mine own gain'd knowledge should profane,"
DeleteWithout this line, I think you lose some sense of what Iago's purpose is. Obviously all Iago cares about is himself and I think this particular phrase is a particularly good example of this. First of all, the use of the words "for mine own." Nothing he is doing will benefit anyone other than himself. In order for an audience member or reader to understand this, I think you need these lines. They help to explain Iago's motives which are purely selfish. Also, the use of the word "profane" sets a mood for the soliloquy. Profane doesn't really have good connotations, so by including this word, his motives are revealed even further. this entire quote really sums up Iago's motivations and without it, the entire soliloquy might be unclear. One of the important themes of this play is Iago's selfishness and evil and this particular phrase exemplifies both very well.
This comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
Delete“Hell and night
DeleteMust bring this monstrous birth to the world's light”
This quote goes at the end of Iago’s soliloquy and ties up his plotting rant.Iago has just deceived his “friend” Roderigo and is planning aloud his plot to ruin Othello. This whole scene shows the viewer the extent of Iago’s plotting and nefarious nature. His idea is to make Othello believe that his new wife is unfaithful, which will wreck their marriage and crush Othello. At the same time, he will involve Cassio and bring him down as well.
I do think these lines are important because they show that Iago isn’t deluded and knows that what he’s doing isn’t right. “This monstrous birth to the world’s light” shows that he knows his plan is a bad thing that he’s inflicting on the world’s light (I take this to symbolize Othello and Desdemona’s recent marriage). This line really gives you a glimpse into Iago’s personality--it shows the viewer that Iago aims to go forward with his awful plan, and that even though he very well knows that what he’s doing will harm other people, he doesn’t care since it will benefit him. It is necessary because it solidifies how selfish and uncaring Iago is, and I really think this is an important part of the character development in Othello.
"That he is too familiar with his wife."
DeleteThis quote is essential to Iago's soliloquy because it explains to the reader Iago's plan. Iago is going to tell Othello that Cassio is getting too close to Desdemona. This is a very well thought out plan because it uses everyone's weaknesses against themselves. Iago knows that Othello believes that men who appear honest are honest so he will believe Iago's accusation of Cassio. Iago also knows that Cassio is a good looking gentlemen and that will make it more believable to Othello if it was Cassio who was having an affair with Desdemona. The way that Cassio greeted Desdemona and Emilia when they arrived to Cyprus demonstrates Cassio's kind manners and innocently flirtatious character. This plan will allow Iago to help Roderigo break up Othello and Desdemona while also allowing Iago to get revenge on Othello for not promoting him and Cassio who is rumored to have had an affair with his wife Emilia. The character of Iago is truly evil and his plan lets the reader see how he will manipulate anyone in order to get what he wants. I think that it is important that the reader has knowledge of Iago's plan in this passage.
“That he is too familiar with his wife.”
DeleteThis quote is essential in this passage because it tells the reader what Othello is going to be made to think. The previous line says that someone is going to abuse Othello’s ear, but without this quote, the reader has no idea what is being said to Othello or what the goal of Iago’s plan is: to get Othello to think Cassio is attracted to or is having an affair with Desdemona. The lack of this quote also makes the next few lines about Othello thinking people are honest seem out of place because the reader doesn't know what Othello overheard that may not be truthful.
Iago’s soliloquy near the end of act 2 scene 1:
ReplyDeleteThat Cassio loves her, I do well believe it;
That she loves him, 'tis apt and of great credit:
The Moor, howbeit that I endure him not,
Is of a constant, loving, noble nature,
And I dare think he'll prove to Desdemona
A most dear husband. Now, I do love her too;
Not out of absolute lust, though peradventure
I stand accountant for as great a sin,
But partly led to diet my revenge,
For that I do suspect the lusty Moor
Hath leap'd into my seat; the thought whereof
Doth, like a poisonous mineral, gnaw my inwards;
And nothing can or shall content my soul
Till I am even'd with him, wife for wife,
Or failing so, yet that I put the Moor
At least into a jealousy so strong
That judgment cannot cure. Which thing to do,
If this poor trash of Venice, whom I trash
For his quick hunting, stand the putting on,
I'll have our Michael Cassio on the hip,
Abuse him to the Moor in the rank garb—
For I fear Cassio with my night-cap too—
Make the Moor thank me, love me and reward me.
For making him egregiously an ass
And practising upon his peace and quiet
Even to madness. 'Tis here, but yet confused:
Knavery's plain face is never seen tin used.
That Cassio loves her, I do well believe it;
DeleteThe Moor, howbeit that I endure him not,
And I dare think he'll prove to Desdemona
A most dear husband. Now, I do love her too;
Not out of absolute lust, though peradventure
I stand accountant for as great a sin,
But partly led to diet my revenge,
For that I do suspect the lusty Moor
Hath leap'd into my seat; the thought whereof
Doth gnaw my inwards;
And nothing can or shall content my soul
Till I am even'd with him, wife for wife,
I'll have our Michael Cassio on the hip,
Abuse him to the Moor
Make the Moor thank me, love me and reward me.
For making him egregiously an ass
***********************************************************
Which thing to do,
If this poor trash of Venice, whom I trash
Is of a constant, loving, noble nature,
, like a poisonous mineral,
For his quick hunting, stand the putting on,
That she loves him, 'tis apt and of great credit:
For I fear Cassio with my night-cap too—
And practising upon his peace and quiet
Even to madness. 'Tis here, but yet confused:
Knavery's plain face is never seen tin used.
Or failing so, yet that I put the Moor
At least into a jealousy so strong
That judgment cannot cure.
in the rank garb—
A crack in Iago’s hatred?
DeleteEmil Friedman
Iago’s soliloquy near the end of Act 1 Scene 2 provides guidance to the audience both in terms of literal plot and in terms of a richer characterization of Iago. Although some of this particular monologue is detail not crucial to the story, one line that should definitely not be removed is Iago’s claiming that Othello “[i]s of a constant, loving, noble nature.” This line offers a deeper understanding of Iago’s relationship with Othello, and also acts to soften an otherwise exclusively negative light that has been cast upon Iago thus far in the play.
First, the line simply provides more information and context behind interactions between Iago and Othello. With Iago claiming that Othello is “constant,” “loving,” and “noble,” we are able to see that although Iago does continue to despise Othello, now for multiple reasons, even a character as evil as Iago recognizes the natural goodness in Othello. The three adjectives that Iago chooses to use with regards to Othello are important. First, Othello is “constant.” This means that Othello tends to see everything with a level head, maintaining reason and sensible judgement rather than developing unfounded grudges or hatred (Iago, are you listening?). Othello’s actions so far are very much consistent with a classification of “constant”: when he was accused of unethically gaining Desdemona as a wife, instead of fighting back in a traditional sense, Othello maintained a level head and encouraged his wife to speak for herself. Second, Iago calls Othello “loving.” This is pretty clearly shown so far in the play. Remember when Othello and Desdemona were reunited on Cyprus? Othello says, “I cannot speak enough of this content; It stops me here; it is too much of joy.” (Not only does Othello show great love for Desdemona, but this passion is returned by Desdemona herself, by the way.) The third descriptor of Othello is “noble.” Othello certainly is noble in the traditional sense, given that he is under high demand from the Duke and is widely respected throughout the military. But noble might also mean “respectable” or, quite frankly, “good.” And so far, there is nothing to disprove that characterization of Othello. Throughout his various dialogues, all we have seen is respect -- even in the most trying or unfair of situations -- and the fulfillment of his duties, both personally and professionally. (Managing to come to Cyprus for his work, while still being with Desdemona, for example.) In general, those three words that Iago uses to describe Othello are not only accurate, but serve to solidify and validate conclusions that the audience might have inferred beforehand. In other words, to us, Othello has been nothing but delightful. But when even someone who admittedly hates Othello is able to say such things about him, the characterization of Othello transitions to a more consistent and fully true state.
CONTINUED BELOW
CONTINUED FROM ABOVE
DeleteThe line also offers some richer insight into Iago’s personality. First of all, up to this point, Iago has been nothing but evil. True, he says some nice things to various people, namely Roderigo and Othello, in person, but behind their backs, he very clearly articulates how fake and scheming these seemingly friendly interactions really are. But here, for the first time, Iago says something genuinely kind about another character. This indicates a couple of things to me. First, Iago isn’t stupid. He’s a twisted, evil, manipulative character, of course, but even someone like him recognizes goodness when he sees it. Second, it shows a possible sense of admiration that Iago might feel towards Othello. To others, Iago claims to fully hate Othello. But really, Iago might see Othello as a sort of model figure. Because of this, a new idea arises: Iago is irritated that he wasn’t picked above Cassio because Iago feels that he has more experience and is more qualified, sure. But if Iago admires Othello even to the very slight degree that this single line indicates, the hatred for Othello may actually stem from feeling a bit rejected and outcasted from this preference for Cassio. In other words, Iago isn’t only angry about the alleged unfairness of Cassio’s selection above him, but he also feels a bit pushed-aside by someone who Iago very clearly admires and respects. This allows the audience to appreciate some of the deeper motives to Iago’s very clearly evil intentions; there is more to them that what it seems.
All of these new ideas and connections wouldn’t have been established if this single line was eliminated from Iago’s monologue. In fact, I would go so far as to argue that the line is not only important enough to keep in the passage, but is crucial to the audience’s understanding of the passage and Iago’s character at large.
A Mastermind in a Fool’s Paradise”
Delete“I put the Moor
At least into a jealousy so strong
That judgment cannot cure.”
These lines are crucial to the understanding of Iago’s devious plan to gain the position of lieutenant. Iago explains to the audience how he is going to punish Othello for giving the promotion to Michael Cassio and not himself. In the original soliloquy, Iago decides he will get even with Othello wife for wife, or in other words he will try to seduce Desdemona. The lines right after talk about how Michael Cassio will suffer the wrath of Othello. These two things do not have a direct correlation. The missing lines allude to the idea that Iago is going to tell Othello that Desdemona was seduced by Cassio and not himself. When Iago refers to Othello’s wrath as, “a jealousy so strong that judgement cannot cure,” Othello will be so mad that he will reward, love, and thank Iago with the position of lieutenant. Iago’s plan goes further than just to blame Cassio for something he did. To truly extract revenge on Othello, he will have the satisfaction of knowing that Othello will look like a fool when he finds out that it was not Cassio who had sex with his wife, but Iago.
The lines “I put the Moor at least into a jealously so strong that judgment can not cure” are absolutely essential to the understanding of this soliloquy. Without these lines it just seems like Iago is mad at Othello and he wants revenge, which is true and important. However, with these lines it is clear that Iago wants to ruin Othello’s life in a way that only jealousy can accomplish. Iago says this is the least he wants to do to Othello, making the implication that Othello has much more than just jealousy coming his way. Iago says “judgment can not cure” it is as if jealousy is a metaphor for a deadly disease and even the most poised, level-headed person won’t be able to control it because of its lethal strength. This all emphasizes Iago’s resentment and hostility toward Othello in a way that almost makes the audience cringe. It would be a shame if Shakespeare cut these lines and his audience did not realize Iago’s evil capabilities.
Delete"Lack of Meaning"
DeleteBy Matt Ziegler
"At least into a jealousy so strong
That judgment cannot cure.”
Why this line got taken out is beyond me. Not only does this take away the fact that Iago wants to make Othello very jealous, it also takes away a sort of tone that is very important for the speech. Right before this, Iago says that he will be "even'd wife for wife". This shows a sense of competitiveness, but the lack of the talk of jealousy takes away from the significance of the speech as a whole.
This quote is also important for the characterization of Iago. Without this quote it seems like Iago is just a nasty guy, but the talk of jealousy really develops him in a way that really gets the audience mad at him. This is because not only is he messing with Othello's reputation, he is messing with his emotions, which takes the situation to a different level.
Finally, this quote is very important for the plot. This small part of the text is very important as it indicates Iago's plan to make Othello jealous. This obviously is significant in leading into what else will happen in the play, mainly Iago executing his plan he has been scheming.
“Knavery's plain face is never seen till used.” Are the ending lines of Iago’s soliloquy in Act 2 scene 1. These lines are a vital piece to fully understand Iago’s scheming plan. Iago plans to plant lies in Othello’s head about an affair between Desdemona and Cassio. Iago hopes by doing this it will not only ruin Othello’s marriage to Desdemona but will also lead to the demise of Cassio. Since this quote is the ending line of Iago’s soliloquy omitting it would make Iago’s scheming of his plot to abrupt. This quote also shows hints of foreshadowing, expressing that Iago’s “Knavery” or dishonesty won’t be seen by Othello and the other characters until it hits them. Iago is even often called “honest” by many characters such as Roderigo and Othello which shows that they have faith in Iago and don’t seem him as anything but a loyal comrade. Iago clearly sees his position on the playing field and intends to use it to his advantage to fulfill his wanting of revenge.
Delete"Evil Exposed"
DeleteEmilie Ravena
“yet that I put the Moor
At least into a jealousy so strong
That judgment cannot cure.”
This line should have been kept in the soliloquy because it provides a better understanding for the feelings behind Iago’s plan. It shows that Iago wasn’t just angry at Othello for supposedly seducing his wife. He was livid, and wanted Othello to pay. This line exposes more of Iago’s evil personality. He didn’t just want to get revenge on Othello by harming him; he wanted to make Othello jealous. The line before says “And nothing can or shall content my soul till I am even'd with him, wife for wife,” meaning Iago is planning on seducing Desdemona, so Othello could get a taste of his own medicine. Without the line, the reader would not fully understand how deep Iago’s anger is, and how devastating and destructive his plans for revenge will be. Iago’s anger towards Othello is blinding, and he probably felt betrayed by his own wife. Iago’s only way to make himself feel better about the situation was to make Othello feel the same way, maybe even worse. All of these feelings Iago was having couldn’t be expressed as well if this line was left out of the soliloquy.
Iago’s soliloquy at the end of act 2 scene 3:
ReplyDeleteAnd what's he then that says I play the villain?
When this advice is free I give and honest,
Probal to thinking and indeed the course
To win the Moor again? For 'tis most easy
The inclining Desdemona to subdue
In any honest suit: she's framed as fruitful
As the free elements. And then for her
To win the Moor—were't to renounce his baptism,
All seals and symbols of redeemed sin,
His soul is so enfetter'd to her love,
That she may make, unmake, do what she list,
Even as her appetite shall play the god
With his weak function. How am I then a villain
To counsel Cassio to this parallel course,
Directly to his good? Divinity of hell!
When devils will the blackest sins put on,
They do suggest at first with heavenly shows,
As I do now: for whiles this honest fool
Plies Desdemona to repair his fortunes
And she for him pleads strongly to the Moor,
I'll pour this pestilence into his ear,
That she repeals him for her body's lust;
And by how much she strives to do him good,
She shall undo her credit with the Moor.
So will I turn her virtue into pitch,
And out of her own goodness make the net
That shall enmesh them all.
Iago’s soliloquy at the end of act 2 scene 3:
DeleteAnd what's he then that says I play the villain?
For 'tis most easy
The inclining Desdemona to subdue
In any honest suit: she's framed as fruitful
As the free elements. And then for her
To win the Moor—were't to renounce his baptism,
His soul is so enfetter'd to her love,
Even as her appetite shall play the god
With his weak function.
To counsel Cassio to this parallel course,
Directly to his good?
When devils will the blackest sins put on,
As I do now: for whiles this honest fool
Plies Desdemona to repair his fortunes
I'll pour this pestilence into his ear,
That she repeals him for her body's lust;
And by how much she strives to do him good,
She shall undo her credit with the Moor.
And out of her own goodness make the net
That shall enmesh them all.
• All seals and symbols of redeemed sin,
• They do suggest at first with heavenly shows,
• That she may make, unmake, do what she list
• Divinity of hell!
• So will I turn her virtue into pitch,
• How am I then a villain
• And she for him pleads strongly to the Moor,
• When this advice is free I give and honest,
• Probal to thinking and indeed the course
To win the Moor again?
“So will I turn her virtue into pitch,”
DeleteIn this soliloquy, Iago is revealing his evil plan to get back at Othello. He is going to get Cassio drunk in order to make him act out in a carless or violent manor that will get him in trouble. Then, Cassio will go to Desdemona for help, and because she is such a kind hearted person, she will aid him. Iago, knowing that Desdemona would do this, is going to then go to Othello and “pour this pestilence into his ear.” This means he will feed Othello lies about how Desdemona is helping Cassio out of her love for him; therefore Othello will be very upset about Desdemona and will lose trust in her.
The quote “so will I turn her virtue into pitch” as stated above, is from the last few lines of the original soliloquy and it should be put back into the cut up version. At the end of the soliloquy, Iago is saying that because Desdemona is so nice and will help Cassio, this action will set up a “net that shall enmesh them all.” Though this is the true intention of Iagos evil plan, to get back at Othello, without the quote stated above, there isn’t a concluding emphasis on Iago's role in the plan. There is nothing saying that Iago is the one who is going to make Desdemona help Cassio. And even though, without the quote, it is obvious that this is Iago’s evil plan and he is making everything happen, this quote is still important to the soliloquy. It is a well known fact that Iago is selfish, and having this quote back into the soliloquy would emphasize this characteristic of Iago himself and his evil plan. The quote is essential because it shows how Iago is only going doing all of this for himself.
Priyanka Vijay
Delete“That she may make, unmake, do what she list”
Iago’s soliloquy at the end of act 2 scene 3, is him shamelessly revealing to the audience his plan for revenge on othello for having an affair with his wife and for choosing Cassio over him to be in the army. He plans on getting Cassio drunk, knowing he doesn’t do well with alcohol, and having him act out in a way that would get him in trouble. He then argues that Desdemona’s kind heartedness will force her to aid Cassio and she will beg Othello (because he usually does whatever she wants him to do) to keep Cassio in his lieutenantry which will put doubt into Othello’s mind that she may love Cassio and may be having an affair with him. Iago will “pour this pestilence” into Othello’s mind, making him less confident in the relationship with his wife, believe the infidelity rumors, and according to Iago, “she will undo her credit with the moor”.
The quote, “That she may make, unmake, do what she list” which was in the original soliloquy, should be put back into the cut version. This line goes right after the line, “His soul is so enfetter’d to her love”, which means that he is so enslaved by her love. This is just a statement and needs to be followed by another sentence explaining why it is relevant in the current context. “That she may make, unmake, do what she list” should be added back because it means that Othello loves her so much that she can make him do anything she wants him to, which is pivotal to Iago’s plan. Without this quote, the reader cannot fully understand the extent of Othello’s love for Desdemona. According to Iago’s plan, Desdemona will beg to Othello to let Cassio keep his respected position because usually, Othello will believe Desdemona and she will get what she wants. Iago hopes that the lies he pours into Othello’s ears will change his decision to follow his wife’s order. The quote that was removed from the original quote needs to be added back because it is the basis to Iago’s plan.
"And I will turn her virtue into pitch"
DeleteAt the end of act II scene III, Iago reveals his evil plan to the audience about ruining Othello and his close ones in this soliloquy. Although he hasn't told us the entire plan, he is going to get Cassio drunk and get him to do something idiotic that would result in Cassio being demoted. Cassio will then tell Desdemona his problems and she will plead his case to Othello because she is a good woman. Iago will then "pour this pestilence into his ear" that the only reason Desdemona is trying to save Cassio is because of "her body's lust." This means that Iago will tell Othello that Desdemona is being unfaithful to him. As Iago states at the end of his soliloquy, "and out of her own goodness make the net that shall enmesh them all"
In the line "so I will turn her virtue into pitch" Iago is stating that he will use Desdemona's goodness and virtue, and twist that into her wanting to cheat on Othello. This line really shows how great of a villain Iago is; to be able to twist a very loving marriage into one filled with lies and deceit. He is able to twist anything to his favor it seems like, as this quote makes him seem unstoppable, which he may be in the case of this couple. Although the fact that Iago is going to twist Desdemona's words to make her seem unfaithful is already evident in this soliloquy, the quote "so I will turn her virtue into pitch" amplifies this and shows its importance to the play. As stated earlier, this quote shows how much of a villain Iago really is
"And she for him pleads strongly to the Moor,"
ReplyDeleteAt the end of act II scene III, Iago uses this soliloquy to explain his evil plan. This plan begins with Iago getting Cassio so drunk he will resort to some sort of violence or rash behavior that would get him in trouble. Then, after realizing what he had done, Cassio would go to Desdemona to ask her to help him "repair his fortunes" with Othello. Being the kind-hearted lady she is, Desdemona would then go to Othello to clear up Cassio's name. Iago on the other hand, would take this opportunity to "poison Othello's ear" by telling lies and casting Desdemona off as being both deceiving and disloyal. His argument would be that Desdemona had helped Cassio out of her secret love for him.
As seen, the above line is needed as explains Desdemona's part in Iago's plan. Without Desdemona's help, Iago would not be able to carry out his plan. If she decided not to go to Othello after her confrontation with Cassio, Iago would have nothing to complain about. In this scenario, only Cassio had the potential of getting in trouble with Othello. This would be gratifying for Iago, however it would not satisfy his ultimate goal of getting revenge on Othello. For that, he would need a reason to complain about Desdemona, tamper with Othello's confidence in her loyalty, and hence make him miserable. Without the above line, Iago's plan is faulty.
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ReplyDelete“They do suggest at first with heavenly shows”
ReplyDeleteIn the middle of Iago’s soliloquy in Act two scene three, this phrase is used when Iago is laying out his plan. Without the usage of this phrase, you lose a part of his scheme. His plan is to use Desdemona’s, Cassio’s, and Othello’s personalities against them by implying to Othello that she’s having an affair with Cassio. He states that Desdemona is honest and good and that she will “”out of her goodness create the net that will ensnare them all.” A part of his plan is for him to make Othello jealous of Cassio and Desdemona, by lying to Othello and implying that the two of them are having an affair, while pretending to be concerning and on Othello’s side. The entire phrase is “When devils will the blackest sins put on, They do suggest at first with heavenly shows”. Here, Iago likens himself to the devils that pretend to be angelic in order to lure in their prey. When the latter half of the simile is removed, but the first part is kept, the meaning is distorted, and it makes his plan seem less believable and less thought out to the reader and the audience. Here, the entire phrase ties back in to Iago’s opening statements, where he states that his advice is “free and honest”, and that any of Othello’s assumptions are Othello’s own fault. Without the phrase, not only do the first few lines of the soliloquy no longer fit, Iago’s plan is not made clear to the reader.
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ReplyDeleteIn this scene Iago has successfully gotten Cassio drunk and invoked him to get into a fight with Roderigo. Monatano sees them fighting and tries to break them up but ends up getting wounded in his side. Because of the racket being made, Othello comes in and sees that his predecessor in the government of Cyprus is wounded. Appalled at the fight that has broken out, Othello forces Iago to tell him who started it. With fake hesitation, to make it seem like he is still faithful to Cassio, Iago reveals that Cassio was the one who started the brawl. Othello is irate and strips Cassio of his position. Cassio who is deeply regretful of his drinking that night and his disgraceful behavior goes to Iago for council. Iago who is thrilled that his plan to ruin Othello is working advises Cassio to talk to Desdemona who can help him get in good favors with the Moor. After Cassio leaves he proceeds to speak to the audience in this soliloquy.
ReplyDeleteThe main point of this soliloquy is Iago showing how Othello’s love for Desdemona enables her to do whatever she wants. So much so that the
Moor would be willing to renounce his Christianity if that’s what Desdemona asked of him. Iago also reveals that by telling Cassio to go to Desdemona to redeem himself in Othello’s eyes, he has convinced Cassio that this will be directly helping him—which is a lie. This is actually just part of Iago’s plan to ruin Othello. By setting up Cassio and Desdemona to talk, he can twist their interaction into a sign of Desdemona being unfaithful to Othello.
The line “That she may make, unmake, do what she list” is an important line that shows the hold that Desdemona has on Othello. Without this line the visual image of Desdemona being able to do whatever she pleases without objection from Othello is lost. This line is really the driving factor in Iago’s plan and deserves to be put back into the soliloquy. If Othello was not so engrossed with her love she wouldn’t be able to convince him to let Cassio have his position again. Once again this line should be put back into the soliloquy because it shows the reader why Iago is able to use Desdemona to fulfill his plan as opposed to another person.