Quotes
What quote shows Iago questioning whether he is truly evil?
“And what’s he then that says I play the villain?”
Why does Iago feel wronged by Othello?
Othello promoted Cassio instead of him.
Who does Iago envy for receiving the promotion?
Cassio
What emotion does Iago hide with confidence?
Insecurity
What line shows that Iago doesn’t think of himself as a villain?
“And what’s he then that says I play the villain?”
What does Iago say about how small things can convince jealous people?
“Trifles light as air / Are to the jealous confirmations strong / As proofs of holy writ.”
What personal issue makes Iago suspicious of his wife, Emilia?
He thinks she might be unfaithful with Othello.
What does Iago accuse Othello of doing with his wife?
Sleeping with her
Who does Iago feel betrayed by?
Othello, Cassio, and possibly Emilia
What does the phrase “hurt people hurt people” mean in the context of Iago?
His own pain leads him to hurt others, not just evilness.
What object does Iago use as proof in his manipulation?
Desdemona’s handkerchief
What emotion fuels Iago’s plan for revenge the most?
Jealousy
Which quote shows Iago’s jealousy about promotions being based on favoritism?
“Preferment goes by letter and affection, not by the old gradation.”
How does Iago’s insecurity fuel his actions?
He lashes out and manipulates to protect his ego and status.
What outside source was used to compare Iago’s actions to another character?
Niccolò Machiavelli’s The Prince
What does Iago say to show that he’s using Othello to serve his own goals?
“In following him, I follow but myself.”
According to critics, what kind of character is Iago — evil or complex?
Complex — he’s more than just evil, he’s human and damaged.
How does jealousy lead Iago to manipulate Othello?
He feeds Othello lies to make him jealous and irrational.
What quote shows that Iago pretends to be loyal while serving himself?
“I am not what I am.”
How is Iago similar to Machiavelli’s version of Moses?
Both use fear and manipulation to gain power in a tough world.
What line reveals Iago’s belief that Othello cheated with his wife?
“It is thought abroad that ’twixt my sheets / He has done my office.”
How does Iago try to gain control over his own life?
By manipulating others and creating chaos to get what he wants.
What makes Iago’s jealousy more believable than pure evil?
It stems from personal hurt, betrayal, and insecurity.
What role does fear of powerlessness play in Iago’s character?
It makes him feel the need to control others through manipulation.
Why is Iago considered more human than monstrous?
Because his actions come from relatable emotions like jealousy and betrayal.