Commentary on Iago's behaviour in Scene Three, Act Two

... Othello ACT TWO, SCENE THREE In this passage, the final parts of Iago's plot seem to come together, revealing to the audience both his easy manipulation of human nature and his innate understanding of the motivations of those around him. In the first four lines, he takes on a pose of honesty and innocence: professing that his advice is honest, open and, above all, an entirely reasonable course of action for Cassio to take. These lines demonstrate the necessary importance that Iago places on appearing innocent - he takes care to cover his tracks in order that he might continue his reputation of being 'honest Iago'. There is, however, a great deal of sarcasm between these lines: the audience knows how little appreciation he has for Cassio and hence that any 'free [...] honest' advice ultimately will serve as a double edged sword. Iago's perception of Desdemona also emerge in the following

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