Iago's Rhetorical Strategies

Iago also uses the rhetorical strategy of logic to poison the thoughts of those around him. This method is especially used in conversations with Othello in order to manipulate and deceive him greatly. The way in which Iago uses logic is through fact-based arguments. He uses past occurrences to make predictions on present events – an approach that is likely to be believed since it is rooted in rationality. An example of this tactic being demonstrated is when Iago says to Othello: “She did deceive her father, marrying you” (3.3.206). Iago is implying that since Desdemona deceived her father, someone whom she loves and respects far more than anyone else, she could very well be deceiving Othello. This statement by Iago gives rise to feelings of