The Civil Monster

Haley Hannah

Professor Hames

English 102

April 5, 2017

The Civil Monster

In William Shakespeare’s play, Othello, Iago is the definition of a civil monster.

Throughout the play, Iago’s actions reveal he is not the so called “honest Iago” Othello claims he is. Iago uses his good reputation as a tool to disguise the villain he really is. Iago manipulates people and uses their weaknesses to get the revenge he seeks.

The root of Iago’s devious schemes and his hatred of Othello begins with the jealousy of Michael Cassio. Othello picked Cassio instead of Iago as his military lieutenant and this angers Iago. Iago said “As masterly as he: more prattle, without practice is his soldiership. But he sir, had the election” (1.1.26-27.) when Iago found out Cassio received the promotion. Iago believes the lieutenant position is more sutiable for him as he said “In personal suit to make me his lieutenant, off-capped to him. And by the faith of man, I know my price, I am worth no worse a place” (1.1.9-11.) This is the beginning of the civil monster.

Iago talked Cassio into getting drunk one night, knowing Cassio would start a fight. Iago envys Cassio’s rank as lieutenant, so he trys every trick in the book to get the postion stripped from him. Iago stated “If I can fasten but one cup upon him, with that which he hath drunk tonight already, He’ll be as full of quarrel and offense aas my young mistress’ dog”(2.3.39-42.) Getting Cassio drunk starts a fight and causes