Iago Malignity with a Motive
Iago: Malignity with a Motive Iago is one of Shakespeares most complex villains. Coleridge describes Iago as “motiveless malignity”, but it seems as though Coleridge was slightly off. Although Iago starts out without a motive, he soon develops several after the promotion of Michael Cassio. ... Through some carefully crafted, manipulative words and a complete disregard for those around him, Iago is able to manipulate others to do things in a way that benefits himself. Iago’s acts were very malignant, but not altogether motiveless. “Honest Iago” is not your ordinary villain. Iago is extremely quick whited and cunning. ... An early example of Iago’s disregard for a person supposed to be his friend is his conversation with Roderigo. After which Iago says of Roderigo, "Thus do I ever make my fool my purse. ... Iago knows that Roderigo is in love with Desdemona and figures that he would do anything to have her for himself. By playing on Roderigo’s hopes, Iago is able to swindle money and jewels from Roderigo, making himself a substantial profit, while using Roderigo to forward his other goals (i.