Othello #4

          Before Iago begins influencing Othello, Othello is an honest, trusting man. He loves Desdemona greatly and believes that Cassio is a loyal lieutenant. However, as Othello allows Iago’s words to sink in and take on a life of their own, he is easily manipulated. Iago tells Othello an elaborate story of how Cassio and Desdemona have been having a secret affair. Iago claims that Cassio even told him in his sleep that he was in love with Desdemona. Othello, a trusting man, believes everything that Iago is spewing. He considers Iago to be honorable and therefore, believes this fictitious tale. Othello allows his anger to overcome him: “All my fond love thus do I blow to heaven./ ‘Tis gone./ Arise, black vengeance, from the hollow hell” (III.iii.505-7). Othello takes Iago’s tale at face value and decides that he no longer loves Desdemona. He pledges to destroy not only her but also Cassio and lastly, decides to make Iago the lieutenant. Everything is going as planned for Iago. He has been sent by Othello to kill Cassio; he has the position that he originally wanted, and he has ruined Othello’s marriage, just like it has been rumored that Othello did the same to Iago. He has taken advantage of Othello’s trusting spirit.