Iago

Othello

is representative of a new way of thinking about the world; cynical, discontent with class expectations ("tis in ourselves, that we are thus, or thus").

Marsh considers Iago in relation to his historical context. He suggests that Iago represents a new way of thinking about the world. Iago is a typical malcontent or Machiavel, a dissatisfied and cynical man who will not stay in his place. He wants to get his own back on a society that thwarts him. Marsh points to Iago's speech in Act 1 Scene 3, where he outlines his philosophy - "tis in ourselves, that we are thus, or thus" - as proof of his subversive qualities. By way of contrast, Othello 'often conjures the magnificence of a traditional, military order and medieval ideals, such as honour. His love for Desdemona has strong overtones of medieval courtly love where the woman's purity is worshipped and idolised.'

is representative of the magnificence of a traditional, military order and medieval ideals, such as honour, contrasted with a new cynicism and Machiavelianism at work in Iago's person.

Nicholas MarshThinkers

Nicholas Marsh