Textual Analysis Of Othello

Shakespeare’s Othello has been regarded as one of the most unique, multi-layered example of modern English literature. The conventions of this paper will comprise a textual analysis which will assiduously critique the literary techniques utilised by Shakespeare to convey various purposes. The passage which will be analysed is a piece from Act 1 of Scene 3, comprising a soliloquy which encompasses Iago the Machiavellian villain’s plot to cheat Roderigo and Othello. This soliloquy is essential in context of the entire play as Iago uncovers his true nature to the audience, showing how he can manipulate others to his gain whilst gaining a twisted satisfaction from their torment.

Iago’s plot begins with Roderigo, his willingness to exploit him
Secondly, hypocrisy plays a forefront role in the main themes of the play; ‘He holds me well/ The better shall my purpose work on him.’ This quote uncovers how Iago will execute his plans through fooling the other characters. Iago reveals how he is the ideal antagonist, devising strategies to utilise the affable nature of others in order to mislead them: Iago refers to Othello as ‘will tenderly be led by the nose as asses are.’ This metaphor evidently depicts how Iago asserts his sense of superiority, re-instating his confidence that he can easily control each person. This line creates an interesting point in terms of the themes of the entire play: As each of the characters are succumb to Iago’s delusive personality they are consequently influenced by him, themselves connoting bestial imagery. Exploring the power of bestial imagery in the passage and its influence on the entire play is vital is it exercises Iago’s manipulation and dominance over characters which his vendetta
Let’s see:’ Shakespeare implements these outliers as it establishes to the audience that Iago is truly thinking. Consequently, his thoughts are identifiably separate to his speech which may seem less realistic if his thought process and speech were expressed in sound meter. In addition, lines 416 and 417 convey broken meter; ‘And will as tenderly be led by th’nose/ As asses are.’ The purpose is to evidently foreshadow everyone at an eventual time will be turned into asses. Iago’s personality evidently depicts one of maliciousness and hatred, which this passage plays a significance on the whole in terms of exposing Iago’s true nature. His narcissistic personality is uncovered in the soliloquy as he constantly refers to himself. His failure to sympathize with others is evident; ‘For I mine own gained knowledge should profane.’ This line highlights the consecutive references to himself through containing ‘I’ and ‘O’ sounds throughout. Iago evidently demonstrates through his words and actions how he, himself is at the center of