The Similarities Of Iago And Othello

Both Othello and Iago are fearless and poetic men who are overcome by the desire for revenge, however, Othello lacks the keen insight Iago has, and as a result, is ruined by Iago. Othello and Iago are both fearless and assertive men. Brabantio may try to terminate Othello’s marriage; however he will “Let [Brabantio] do his spite./[His] services which [he] have done the signiory/Shall out-tongue [Brabantio’s] complaints” (I.ii.17-19). Even though Brabantio may have the power to ruin Othello’s marriage with Desdemona, he is unafraid to what he may do and is undeterred by Brabantio’s malevolence. Just like Othello, Iago is also fearless and audacious when he advises Othello to “Demand [him] nothing. What [he] know[s], [he] know[s]./From this time forth [he] never will speak word” (V.ii.303-304).
Othello is passionate, sensual, and honest, while Iago is cynical, devious, and evil. Iago’s twisted self ironically warns Othello about jealousy: “O, beware, my lord, of jealousy;/It is the green-eyed monster, which doth mock/The meat it feeds on./That cuckold lives in bliss” (III.iii.165-167). It is ironic since the green-eyed monster is exactly what Iago is trying to promote in Othello’s heart and mind. Othello on the other hand is a confident and honest