Jealousy In Othello

Shakespeare's “Othello” famously depicts the tragic yet conflicting relationship amongst various characters; most notably Othello, and Desdemona. Both characters resemble the dominant love affair which drives the story, and intensifies the theme of jealousy in the story.  Essentially, jealousy and hatred are the overarching themes of the story, which can be justified through Iago’s evil motives, the effects that the concept has over the characters as well as their relations, and the constant discussion, and metaphors revolving around the subject.

In the beginning of the story, the audience is given a glimpse of Iago’s personality, and the role he will play in the story through his opening line: ‘Sblood, but you’ll not hear me. If ever I did dream of such a matter abhor me (1.1.5). In this line Iago informs Roderigo that if he finds out he is lying then he can hate him. This line can be seen as  form of irony since the audience later discovers that Iago is not a man who should be trusted. It especially sums up his character since it allows the audience to know that his character will be the villain of the story, and he should be “abhorred”, and “despised” by the audience. “Three great ones of the city (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. But he (as loving his own pride and purposes) evades them with a bombast circumstance horribly stuffed with epithets of war, and in conclusion nonsuits my mediators” (1.1.9-16). This quote reveals that Iago’s motives ultimately drives on the resentment and jealousy he has over Othello, and his superiority, which can be proven through Othello’s decision to enroll Michael Cassio as his second command, despite the recommendations of Iago from other various soldiers. It can also be proven through the rumors that his wife has been having an affair with Cassio and Othello. Throughout the book Iago then acts on his jealousy by instigating the death of Desdemona, as well as the deposition of Michael Cassio as Othello’s right-hand man. Aside from jealousy serving as Iago’s driving motive for having vengeance against Othello, his jealousy affects the stability of his marriage with his wife, Emilia. “I for one hate the moor: and it is thought abroad that ‘twixt my sheets he has done my office. I, for mere suspicion in that kind, will do as if for surety” (3.1). This quote reveals that even though her affair is never revealed to be a true or false rumor, it serves as a justification for Iago to go on with his plan. Iago even begins to constantly contradict Emilia, and criticize her because of the rumor.

When analyzing the relationship of Othello and Desdemona, it is important to note that the conflicting relationship which ended tragically, began in a happy and hopeful note. The jealousy which emerges in Othello served as an obstacle which impacted the stability of their relationship. “It is not words that shake thus. Pish! Noses, ears, and lips. Is’t possible?--Confess? Handkerchief? O devil!” (4.1.40-1). This quote reveals the impact Iago has over Othello, and highlights Othello’s vulnerability. Iago’s influence over Othello, can be justified through the fact that Othello refers to Iago as honest, and the strong evidence revolving the handkerchief providing evidence defending Desdemona’s possible affair.