The Miscommunication in Othello

         When completing the story of Othello, one can automatically come to the conclusion that the story revolves around the motifs of jealousy and hatred. This is made more relevant when analyzing the actions of Othello, and Iago which are driven ideally by envious thoughts. However, it can also be argued that that none of the mistrust amongst the characters would have evolved if it weren’t for miscommunications. This reveals that the main theme of the story overarches around the motifs of honesty, and disloyalty.

         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.

         Many characters in the play who are associated with Iago often refer to him as “honest” Iago, due to his bluntness in telling people his thoughts and opinions, this bluntness has created a trustworthy appearance to personality, and has contributed as a strong factor to why he can easily manipulate others. “I will wear my heart upon my sleeve, for daws to peck at.” this quote implies a lot about his personality and reveals that he refuses to express his emotions, and insecurities ato the world because he is afraid of being vulnerable. This weakness serves as his biggest downfall, since it reveals he avoids confrontation,  which could’ve been a factor which could have prevented the events throughout the play from happening.

         In the beginning of the play Othello is introduced as a powerful general who plays a vital role in directing the soldier of Venice. One thing people can pick off from his character however is his arrogance. This is proven when he mentions his royal background, and compares the respect he holds from the Venetian  government, to Brabantio's overall power. Aside from his power Othello’s insecurities are revealed more, this is proven when Iago’s prediction begins coming true. “Cassio's a proper man. Let me see now: To get his place and to plume up my will In double knavery—How, how? Let's see. After some time, to abuse Othello's ear That he is too familiar with his wife. He hath a person and a smooth dispose To be suspected, framed to make women false. The Moor is of a free and open nature, That thinks men honest that but seem to be so, And will as tenderly be led by th' nose As asses are. If I can’t do that, I can at least make the Moor so jealous that he can’t think straight” (2.1.205). In this quote which reveals Iago’s plan to the audience, he explains that although, Othello may hold love for Desdemona, like all humans Othello is capable of holding jealousy, and suspicion over her. He also implies that not all good things last forever when he mentions Cassio’s attractiveness, and likeability, which is a factor supporting his plan.

         The handkerchief which symbolizes Desdemona’s fidelity, and devotion to Othello. It plays a vital role in driving the story to its climax. It is essentially Othello’s jealousy which helps overshadow his charming, and lovable characteristics, with destructive ones. His insecurities unveil themselves, when he is confronted by Iago over reasons why Desdemona could be unfaithful, however one must note how gullible Othello is since he suspected Desdemona’s disloyalty so quickly, rather than confronting her himself and getting things settled. Othello chose Iago’s words over hers.

         The disloyalty which serves as a major theme in the story is overall infringed by the jealousy that the characters have over one another. Iago holds jealousy over Othello's superiority, and Othello holds jealousy over Cassio’s charm over Desdemona. However, both characters hold the weakness of lacking confrontational skills. Using these skills could have essentially prevented the downfall of Iago, and Othello, as well as the death of Emilia, and Desdemona.