Iago's Rhetorical Strategies

Iago also uses the rhetorical strategy of logic to poison the thoughts of those around him. This method is especially used in conversations with Othello in order to manipulate and deceive him greatly. The way in which Iago uses logic is through fact-based arguments. He uses past occurrences to make predictions on present events – an approach that is likely to be believed since it is rooted in rationality. An example of this tactic being demonstrated is when Iago says to Othello: “She did deceive her father, marrying you” (3.3.206). Iago is implying that since Desdemona deceived her father, someone whom she loves and respects far more than anyone else, she could very well be deceiving Othello. This statement by Iago gives rise to feelings of
insecurity and jealousy in Othello, causing him to question the authenticity of his relationship with Desdemona. Without Iago’s use of rhetorical strategy, Othello would likely dismiss any negative implication toward Desdemona; contrastingly, with the use of rhetorical strategy he was able to manipulate Othello’s thoughts to such a high degree that he began to question a relationship in which he once felt unwavering security and certainty. In addition, when Iago reasons why he is better suited for the position of lieutenant than Cassio, he uses logic to justify his answer. He begins his argument by saying, “One Michael Cassio, a Florentine, a fellow almost damn’d in a fair wife, that never set a squadron in the field” (1.1. 20-22). Iago is saying that Cassio does not have hands-on knowledge for he has not been in battle. Iago states this because he believes that since he has been in battle he is more experienced, therefore implying that he would be more qualified for the job of lieutenant.