Self-deception

Image – Source Link

This image was chosen to represent Iago's deception of others and himself within this scene, as he states, "And what's he then that says I play the villain? When this advice is free I give and honest, probal to thinking and indeed the course to win the Moor again? … How am I then a villain to counsel Cassio to this parallel course, directly to his good?" (2.3.356-70), demonstrating Iago's deception of himself to believe that he is not the villain and have done no wrong.

Summary

This scene begins with Othello telling Cassio to looking after the guards that night, and to ensure that the party would not go too out of control. Cassio tells Othello that he has already given his order to Iago, but will personally see to Othello's wishes. This allows Othello to then retire with Desdemona to their chambers to finally consummate their marriage. Once Othello and Desdemona take their leave, Iago coaxes Cassio to drink some more wine despite Cassio's protests that he is an easy drunk. This causes Iago to recognize Cassio's weakness through his protests and Iago's plan to dishonor and embarrass Cassio that night is set into motion. Before long, we see Cassio talking with Iago and the other gentlemen incredibly drunk. Therefore, when Cassio finally goes to the platform to take guard for the night, Iago takes Montano aside and lies about Cassio's weakness and habit for alcoholism. This causes Montano to become rightfully concerned as he debates with Iago whether or not they should inform Othello of Cassio's condition. Iago persuades Montano against doing so, proclaiming that Cassio was a dear friend and that he would like to help cure Cassio of his alcoholism. During this conversation, Iago also sees Roderigo and quietly sends him to follow the lieutenant and carry out their plan. Soon enough, we hear Roderigo yelling a cry for help as Cassio in his drunken stupor tries to fight with him. This causes a commotion as Montano tries to restrain Cassio but becomes injured in the process, and the town alarm is sounded bringing an angry Othello to the scene. When questioned to reveal the person who started the fight, Iago reluctantly admits Cassio, and Cassio is stripped of his position. After Othello takes his leave, Cassio bemoans to Iago about the loss of his reputation and position, while Iago listens on and devises a plan. Iago tells Cassio to plead his case to Desdemona, and ask her to help him get back his position. Iago also convinces Cassio that because of Othello's complete devotion to Desdemona, he will be unable to refuse her anything and will soon mend the rift with her urging between himself and Cassio. Therefore, Cassio, now no longer depressed, convinces himself of Iago's plan and bides Iago goodnight as he goes to the guard tower. Finally alone, Iago then reveals to the audience of his plan to break Othello's trust in Desdemona, and make Othello believe of Desdemona's infidelity to him and lust her Cassio. Thus, the more Desdemona pleads for Cassio's reinstatement to Othello, the more will Othello's distrust and suspicions grow. Lastly, the scene closes as Roderigo finally goes to Iago, claiming himself poor and plans to return to Venice. However, Iago dissuades Roderigo from his plans, claiming that he must have patience, and for Roderigo to return to bed. After Roderigo leaves, Iago then finalizes his plans as he decides to use his wife to influence Desdemona into taking Cassio's side, and take Othello aside himself to see Cassio and Desdemona together. Finally content with his plan, Iago exits.

Reaction – Dramatic Irony

The use of dramatic irony is quite prevalent within this scene as Iago schemes and plans his way into achieving his ultimate goal. However, while Iago plots to make his plans a reality, Iago is also very careful to never expose his true intentions. Therefore, nearly everyone within the play remains still unaware of Iago's devious intentions and continues to believe in his honesty and loyalty to his friends and the Moor. This is shown when Cassio states, "Good night, honest Iago" (2.3.355) after Iago encourages Cassio to plead his case to Desdemona and regain his position or when Othello states, "I know, Iago, thy honesty and love doth mince this matter, making it light to Cassio" (2.3.262-4) after Iago admits that it was Cassio who started the brawl. These quotes demonstrate that the notion of Iago's perceived honesty is still relevant amongst Iago's peers, and that there remains to be no suspicion from others towards Iago's actions and words. However, this perception of Iago from the other characters demonstrates dramatic irony, as Iago continues with his deceitful words and planning for chaos. As Iago states, "When devils will the blackest sins put on they do suggest at first with heavenly shows as I do now. For whiles this honest fool plies Desdemona to repair his fortune and she for him pleads strongly to the Moor, I'll pour this pestilence into his ear that she repeals him for her body's lust" (2.3.371-7).

Question

With the amount of plotting and schemes created by Iago to ensure Othello and Desdemona's downfall, what will cause Iago's downfall? Will he be discovered for his dishonest and deceitful nature?

Personally, I do believe that Iago will have his own downfall within this play. I believe that Iago would be caught with his lies and actions of deceit and will be killed or sentenced for his ploys, preferably before an major character such as Othello, Desdemona, or Cassio is killed. However, based on the tragic nature of this play, such an event is probably unlikely to occur. Nevertheless, I do believe that Iago will not be able to get away from his involvement and deceptions and I hope that he will be met with an appropriate consequence towards the end of this play.