Othello #5

Iago is extremely manipulative in Act 4 Scene 1. He fools Othello into believing that Cassio has slept with Desdemona and Othello is completely overwhelmed with emotion, so much so that he passes out. This over emotional reaction could be associated with his North African heritage. Moors are considered to be emotional and less controlled by reason. Or Othello's response could just demonstrate how much he truly loves Desdemona and how upset he is by her "unfaithfulness". Despite Iago's manipulation, Othello still does not suspect him of any wrong-doing. Iago's revenge plan far exceeds the initial injustice that was done to him. It leaves the audience wondering why Iago wishes to bring misery into Othello's life. Othello seems to be a very kind, respectful and modest gentleman. Yet, Iago's actions make the reader think otherwise. Does Othello really portray the man he is on the inside? Or is Iago just overreacting and overcome with jealousy? Othello still trusts Iago and he will until Iago's plans have been exposed. As Othello is beating Desdemona in public, it demonstrates his fiery emotion. He responds rapidly without actually figuring out the whole story. His calm, reasonable demeanor has been lost. His wild reaction completely contrasts the Othello that was previously showering Desdemona with compliments in the previous act. Iago's lies have completely changed how Venice views Othello. The once celebrated general is now a wild and irrational moor.