Iago's Relationship In Othello

The only things that human beings need to survive in this world are: food, shelter, and relationships. Humans by nature cannot successfully exist on their own, for that reason they are instinctively inclined to crave relationships with others. Whether a relationship be romantic or strictly platonic, it is crucial that one develop a proper foundation before trusting wholeheartedly. The foundation of a relationship, much like any other type of foundation, protects it from threatening outside forces, such as people with malicious intentions, or simply the trials of life in general. There are a myriad of useful qualities that can make up said foundation, however, several important examples are: knowledge of a partner’s character, open communication
Whether it be in politics, romantic or platonic relationships, or even in an intense argument, respect for someone else’s well being is a quality that will always facilitate the best possible outcome. In the play, Iago falsifies his friendship with Othello, and everyone else around him for that matter. Iago demonstrates his sinister intentions as he deceives Othello by saying, “but such a handkerchief- / I am sure it was your wife’s- did I see today / See Cassio wipe his beard with”(3.3.496-498). Iago is blatantly lying as he describes what he has supposedly witnessed. If he had any respect for Othello’s emotional well being, he would never have abused Othello’s trust and created this situation just to harm him. He is intentionally manipulating Othello into abandoning all logic so that he may destroy his relationships with Desdemona and Cassio. Iago is a magnificent actor, he convinces every character in the play into trusting that he has Othello’s best interest at heart. Little do they know that his plot is completely self-serving. If Iago and Othello’s relationship was built upon respect for one another’s general well-being, then literally none of the unfortunate events would have taken place, and Othello’s life would still be worth living. This concept also applies to Iago’s relationships with other characters in Othello. For example, his romantic relationship with his wife, Emilia, has absolutely no respect for well-being within its foundation. Iago continuously alienates and belittles Emilia throughout the play. As mentioned earlier, this could potentially be allotted to the role women played during this time. However, if respect for one’s emotional well-being played a fundamental role in their relationship, her gender would never have been an issue. Emilia risked her life and career for Iago, meanwhile all he proceeded to do was treat her like garbage and focus on his own