Othello Persuasive Methods

There are three major methods of persuasion, pathos, logos, and ethos. These methods have been used commonly from Shakespearian times up until today by skilled writers, to persuade readers into believing a certain thing or idea. In Shakespeare's play, Othello, Iago the antagonist, Iago, applies the methods of persuasion including ethos, pathos, and logos to prove to the tragic hero, Othello, of his wife's disloyalty. There are many ways that Iago Manipulates Othello with ethos, or image, a very important persuasive method. Iago says, "Or to be naked with her friend in bed" (4.1.3). Iago is trying to fill Othello’s mind with images of Desdemona naked with Cassio. This makes Othello’s jealousy grow. Iago says, "Men should be what hey seem; or those that be not would they might seen none!" (3.3.126-127). He is saying that if a man is not true, he is not a man at all. This makes Othello think Cassio is not a man for hiding his relationship with Desdemona. Iago persuades Othello to believe his wife is cheating with Cassio by making him picture it. Another method that Iago uses to persuade Othello with is pathos, or passion. Iago uses this method to his advantage. Iago says to Othello, "I am sure it was your wife's - did I today see Cassio wipe his beard with" (3.3.435). Iago claims that he witnessed Cassio using Desdemona's handkerchief to wipe his beard. He is lying to Othello to make him think that Desdemona gave away the handkerchief, to Cassio. Othello says, "Within these three days let me hear that Cassio's not alive" (3.3.469). Othello falls into Iago's trap and now wants his friend Cassio dead. Othello should not put all of his trust in Iago, but should talk with Desdemona and Cassio first before taking such harsh actions. Iago is making Othello have a strong feeling of hate for both Cassio, and Desdemona. Iago also uses the method of persuasion, logos, or logic. This method is commonly used today, and by Iago, and works very affectively. Iago