Othello
Iago’s exploitation of elements such as symbolism and repetition to execute his plan, influence Othello in his speech and emotions. Iago uses symbolism throughout the play in order to suggest that Desdemona is having an affair. Furthermore, the “ancient” repeats specific words that impact Othello’s sense of hearing and vision to achieve his goals. Finally, Iago also uses repetition to suggest precise ideas to Othello.
Symbolism allows Iago to plant the idea in Othello’s mind that his wife is cheating on him. Throughout the entirety of the play, Iago uses the handkerchief, to indicate to Othello, that Desdemona is having an affair with Cassio. In Act 3, scene 3, Iago states, “ I know not that; but such a handkerchief-I am sure it was your wife’s- did I today, see Cassio wipe his beard with.” The handkerchief functions as a symbol of Othello’s love towards Desdemona. Of course, Iago in fact manipulates Othello’s idea of the handkerchief. Othello therefore views the handkerchief as Desdemona’s chastity and faith. Therefore, when Iago, Othello’s trusted friend confesses that he’s seen another man with it, Othello automatically comes to the conclusion that Desdemona gave it to Cassio. He also concludes, that if Desdemona no longer has the handkerchief she is not pure and must have lay in bed with Cassio, which is when she gave him the precious item and enforces the fact that she had an affair.
Iago uses repetition to manipulate Othello’s vision and hearing in making the Moor believe Desdemona is having an affair. An important moment in the play, where this idea is exercised is in scene 1 in act 4. Iago says, “With her-on her-what you will.” These three statements are said purposely in order for Othello to imagine Desdemona in bed with Cassio. Iago leaves it up to Othello’s imagination to create the scenario but he plants the image by manipulating Othello’s vision. Iago uses very descriptive words so that the situation becomes real to Othello; he
Symbolism allows Iago to plant the idea in Othello’s mind that his wife is cheating on him. Throughout the entirety of the play, Iago uses the handkerchief, to indicate to Othello, that Desdemona is having an affair with Cassio. In Act 3, scene 3, Iago states, “ I know not that; but such a handkerchief-I am sure it was your wife’s- did I today, see Cassio wipe his beard with.” The handkerchief functions as a symbol of Othello’s love towards Desdemona. Of course, Iago in fact manipulates Othello’s idea of the handkerchief. Othello therefore views the handkerchief as Desdemona’s chastity and faith. Therefore, when Iago, Othello’s trusted friend confesses that he’s seen another man with it, Othello automatically comes to the conclusion that Desdemona gave it to Cassio. He also concludes, that if Desdemona no longer has the handkerchief she is not pure and must have lay in bed with Cassio, which is when she gave him the precious item and enforces the fact that she had an affair.
Iago uses repetition to manipulate Othello’s vision and hearing in making the Moor believe Desdemona is having an affair. An important moment in the play, where this idea is exercised is in scene 1 in act 4. Iago says, “With her-on her-what you will.” These three statements are said purposely in order for Othello to imagine Desdemona in bed with Cassio. Iago leaves it up to Othello’s imagination to create the scenario but he plants the image by manipulating Othello’s vision. Iago uses very descriptive words so that the situation becomes real to Othello; he