Why does Iago stand for motive-hunting of motiveless malignity?
Othello is a notable literary work by William Shakespeare. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Othello.
Answer
Why does Iago stand for motive-hunting of motiveless malignity?
Or, Iago stands for motive-hunting of motiveless malignity. Do you agree?
Or, Show Iago as an artist in love with villainy.
Iago is the primary antagonist in William Shakespeare’s (1564-1616) play Othello (1622). Iago is a character who takes pleasure in manipulating those around him for his own benefit. Throughout the play, he exhibits a fascination with villainy that can be interpreted as an artistic appreciation of evil. Here are some points to consider when discussing Iago as an artist in love with villainy,
Iago’s Manipulation Skills: Iago is a master manipulator who can easily convince others. He takes pleasure in deceiving those around him. His ability to manipulate events and people to his advantage is a source of his pride. This shows his skill in creating art out of villainy. He says,
“I am not what I am.”
This famous line from Iago reveals his true nature as a manipulator.
His Lack of Morality: Iago has no moral principle. He doesn’t seem to feel any guilt or remorse for his actions. He states,
“‘I follow but myself.”
He is completely self-serving and is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve his goals. For example, he uses Desdemona’s handkerchief to create doubt in Othello’s heart. When Othello kills her, we can’t see any change in Iago’s character.
His Manipulation of Roderigo: Iago manipulates Roderigo. Rodrigo is in love with Desdemona. Iago promises to help him to win Desdemona’s love. He convinces Roderigo to give him money, which he uses to further his own interests. But he actually cheats on him.
Iago’s Hatred for Othello: Iago’s hatred for Othello drives his actions throughout the play. He is obsessed with the idea of destroying Othello’s reputation and causing him to suffer. Iago’s focus on this goal can be seen as an artistic effort to create a tragic masterpiece. He says,
“I will in Cassio’s lodging lose this napkin,
And let him find it.”
In this scene, Iago is planting false evidence to make it seem like Cassio is having an affair with Othello’s wife. He becomes successful at the end to prove it and leads the tragedy to its final peak.
Iago’s actions in Othello can be seen as an artistic endeavour to create chaos and destruction. He takes pleasure in manipulating those around him, causing chaos, and watching people suffer. His lack of morality and obsession with villainy allow him to immerse himself fully in his art.