This document is an in-depth and detailed plan for the essay question: ‘ Explore how Shakespeare presents the theme of deception and treachery in Othello’. In this essay plan It contains a plan for three paragraphs which cover all the assessment objectives and insured that I got an A in my A-le...
Explore how Shakespeare presents deception and treachery in
‘Othello’
PARAGRAPH 1:
Financial exploitation: [A01] Shakespeare explores the theme of financial
exploitation in the relationship between Iago and Rodrigo, revealing the
extent of Iago greed and Rodrigos desperation for love.
Iago capitalises on Roderigo’s wealth, by convincing him to fund his
schemes, highlighting his willingness to exploit others for personal gain.
Repetition of "put money in the pass"... "it cannot be that Desimon should
long continue her love to the moor"- act 1 scene 3
[A02] Repetition: The phrase "put money in thy purse" is repeated
multiple times by Iago throughout the play. This repetition emphasises
Iago's mercenary nature and his manipulation of Roderigo.
Foreshadows the tragic events that will occur later in the play. It also
reflects [A02] dramatic irony because the audience is aware of Iago’s
deceit and manipulation, whereas Othello and Desdemona are not. This
statement sows the seeds of doubt and mistrust, setting up the tragic
trajectory of the plot.
Roderigo response: "I’ll sell all my land"
Rodrigo willingness to part with his money in hopes of winning Desimon
affection, exposes his vulnerability and desperation for love and
acceptance.
"I do make my phone my purse... for my sport and profit" - end of act 1
scene 3
[A02] Metaphor: The phrase "I do make my fool my purse" uses metaphor
to describe how Iago views Roderigo. By calling Roderigo his "fool," Iago
reveals his contempt and manipulative intentions. Roderigo is not just a
tool but a source of amusement ("sport") and financial gain ("profit") for
Iago. This metaphor highlights the extent of Iago's deceit and the pleasure
he derives from his manipulations.
Structure: The quote comes from his soliloquy - by revealing Iago’s plans
to the audience it creates dramatic irony, and this our impression of the
tragedy of the play as we watch the inevitable play out.
[A03] Context: Iago as a classic Machiavellian character.
[A05] Critic: "Roderigo activates poisonous impulses in Iago" - (E.A.J
Honigmann: Roderigo's role):
Agreeing with Honigmann, Roderigo indeed serves as a catalyst for Iago's
malicious intentions in "Othello." Roderigo's blind devotion to Desdemona
and his willingness to do anything for her unwittingly fuels Iago's
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