Diction And Symbolism In Shakespeare's Othello

In the play Othello written by Shakespeare, Iago is characterized as an individual who is both manipulative, egoistic and troubled. He had previously suspected that Othello, otherwise known as Moor had slept with his wife Emilia. Leaving Iago with a strong desire for revenge. Shakespeare successfully uses diction and symbolism throughout the passage. These devices are used to provide the reader insights regarding Iago’s character and motivation.

Shakespeare indirectly depicts Iago’s persona as egoistic and manipulative through the use of diction: “And nothing can or shall content my soul, till I am evened with him” (13-14). Iago’s body is dominated by anger and resent, causing him to think about revenge as the only way to be at peace with himself. Leaving the reader to perceive Iago as a self centered individual. With the use of the word ‘evened’ the reader can understand Iago’s deepest desire for revenge. Further characterizing Iago, he says, “But partly led to diet my
In a literal sense in means that a drug that was introduced into his system is chewing away his organs. However, in a figurative sense, it could be portrayed as a form of insanity that is introduced into his system. Leaving him with the sensation of emptiness. Leading Iago’s motivation towards revenge. Shakespeare utilizes another symbolism to portray Iago’s motive: “The Moor, howbeit that I endure him not, is of a constant, loving, noble, nature” (3-4). Thus he is conveying his envy towards Othello. Othello symbolizes the person Iago wants to become, but cannot. Seeing that he has inner demons he is battling with. Othello can be seen as the person Iago admires in a sense that he desires the life he has. Further dramatizing the scene, seeing that he is plotting his revenge towards Othello. Leaving the audience wondering what Iago’s next move will