First Impressions Of Iago In Othello

The middle class is usually unaffected by otherness, but some members of this class end up making themselves an other due to their perception of being either lesser or more important than they are and in turn isolate themselves from their social group. Members of this class commonly aim to win the favor of members of the elite upper class, which offers a form of protection from the torment that would ensue if the society was aware of a middle class’s otherness. Iago was an “other” because he was certifiably insane, but he won the favor of Othello, who was blind to all of Iago’s psychotic plots. Iago worked hard to build up his reputation as being “Honest Iago” so nobody would expect him to plot against Othello. Iago is a self-proclaimed hypocrite who absolutely hates Othello but pretends to be loyal to trick Othello into thinking that Iago is "A man he is of honesty and trust" (I.iii.284).
Iago’s hatred is fueled by Othello’s decision to appoint Cassio to the position that Iago desired even though Iago felt that he was much more qualified. Iago felt that he deserved to advance up the social ladder instead of remaining stationary. Iago makes this feeling clear when he is talking to Roderigo and says “It is as sure as you are Roderigo, Were I the Moor I would not be Iago. In following him, I follow but myself (I.i. 58-60). Iago is saying that if he had the power of Othello, he would be his own leader and not answer to anybody but