Commentary on Key Passage from Othello

... Othello Commentary Natasha Frost This passage is a crucial part of the play, not only because it helps the audience to understand Iago's relationship with Roderigo, but also because it provides a map for the rest of the play and offers some insight into Iago's character. Iago's brief soliloquy essentially exalts dishonesty and pretence, showing Iago's disregard for truth telling. This is particularly ironic when one bears in mind that Shakespeare often refers to the character as 'honest Iago', indicating his common preoccupation with appearance versus reality concept. In fact, in this passage, Iago is being truly honest with Roderigo, demonstrating his lack of respect for the character. It is almost as if, through telling him the truth, he is indicating his disdain for him and that he considers him to be below making up stories for. Iago also indicates his derision for the truth in his description of some servants:

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