Iago Convinces Othello

1. Claims Desdemona is a liar

1.1. "She that, so young, could give out such a seeming, To seel her father’s eyes up close as oak, He thought ’twas witchcraft."

2. Suggests Othello isn't familiar with Venetian society

2.1. "In Venice they do let God see the pranks They dare not show their husbands."

3. Acts as if something is bothering him

3.1. “Hah! I like not that!”

3.2. “Utter my thoughts? Why say, they are vile and false?“

4. Suggests Cassio acting in a guilty manner and should not be trusted

4.1. "I cannot think it That he would steal away so guilty-like Seeing you coming."

4.2. "Did Michael Cassio, when you wooed my lady, Know of your love?"

5. Offers personal experience of Cassio to back up allegation

5.1. "In sleep I heard him say 'Sweet Desdemona, Let us be wary, let us hide our loves.'"

6. Offers 'proof' in way of the handkerchief

6.1. "I know not that, but such a handkerchief— I am sure it was your wife’s—did I today See Cassio wipe his beard with."

7. Appeals to Othello's internalised racist attitudes

7.1. "As, to be bold with you, Not to affect many proposèd matches Of her own clime, complexion, and degree"

7.2. "One may smell in such a will most rank, Foul disproportions, thoughts unnatural."

8. Allowed Othello to imagine the worst and panic

8.1. "You cannot, if my heart were in your hand, Nor shall not, whilst ’tis in my custody."

9. Introduces the idea of jealousy

9.1. "Oh, beware, my lord, of jealousy! It is the green-eyed monster which doth mock The meat it feeds on."