Othello – Character development

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Show how Shakespeare develops the characters of Iago, Desdemona and Othello in Act One.

The three characters of Iago, Desdemona and Othello are gradually revealed to the audience as Act One unfolds. All three are linked to one another and talk to and about each other. Their characters unfold through their interaction with others and how they behave in isolation. The first impression formed of Iago comes from what Roderigo says. Being gullible, Roderigo has given Iago his purse. A character who accepts an offer like this is likely to be of doubtful reputation. The first words spoken by Iago are a strong oath. Already it is obvious that he has little respect for religion. Iago also sees little point in fighting purely in theory. He despises Cassio, partly because he has never fought physically. It becomes apparent that Iago is the dominant one in his “friendship” with Roderigo. He talks the most and has many opinions. Iago looks down upon those who serve others and explains that he is only serving Othello for his own gain:

“I follow him to serve my turn upon him” (1,1,42)

Insulting Othello, by referring to him solely by his race, Iago begins to show his machiavellian nature. When Othello is needed by Iago to fulfil his plans, he acts as though he is his friend. Iago has no qualms about his deceitful actions. In order to rile anger in Brabantio, he wakes him with the news that his daughter has married Othello:

“Rouse him, make after him, poison his delight” (1,1,69)

Iago proceeds to tell the news of Desdemona and Othello’s marriage to a shocked Brabantio. He uses offensive imagery, showing the extent to which he will go to win Brabantio’s support against Othello. While not in the company of either Othello or Brabantio, Iago debases the marriage between Othello and Desdemona. Again, Iago talks in terms of money, something which is very important to him:

“He tonight hath boarded a land carrack” (1,2,50)

Iago has no shame in talking in such vulgar terms if it is to help him achieve his aims. He has a disrespect for most things and cannot even be truthful to himself. He declares that Heaven will be his judge. This is unfortunate, taking into account the sort of curses he uses. Desdemona is described by others before the audience sees her speak for herself. Despite Iago’s coarse references, her father and husband describe her as being a gentle, loving woman. Even Iago dares not refer to Desdemona in anything other than glowing terms in the presence of her father. Brabantio’s assumption that she must have been drugged to fall in love with Othello stems not only from his racial bigotry, but also from his belief that his daughter is “tender, fair and happy” (1,2,66)

Desdemona’s reported sympathy and interest for Othello’s tales of bravery paint a picture of an ordinary, kind young woman. When she is summoned to support Othello’s story, she realises that her loyalties are divided. Her consideration for her father’s anger is shown by the way she asks not to live with him. Her reasoning is that he would then not be angered by her presence.

Both Desdemona and Othello are respectful towards the lords while explaining their story of love. Perhaps this is simply their polite manner. However, their way of dealing with a tricky situation is clever. Flattering the lords and showing all due respect is destined to win them support and it is likely that the couple know that. Othello is another character that is discussed before appearing in person. However, the references made are less flattering.

Othello is victim to racial abuse and is assumed to take part in black magic to win the heart of Desdemona. He first appears when Iago is professing to be his friend, telling of the danger of the angered Brabantio. Othello remains dignified and calm at all times. He recognises his own qualities, but does not boast falsely as Iago is prone to do.

In contrast to what the audience learns about Iago’s crude thoughts, Othello declares that he would rather be married to Desdemona than not. He describes his wife as “gentle” and has much respect for her. Paradoxically, Iago sees all women as lesser creatures. Othello is always civilised, even if the face of adversity. Even when Brabantio is trying to fight him, he shows respect for his new father-in-law:

“You shall more command with years
Than with your weapons” (1,2,60)

In spite of further racial abuse from Brabantio, Othello remains the calm peacemaker, winning him respect from the audience. These acts of composed response show the level-headed respectful character that Othello is. His bravery in the battlefield wins Othello respect. The lack of respect from Iago on this matter speaks volumes about Iago’s character as he is supposedly someone who admires these kinds of acts.

The way in which Othello speaks to the dukes shows respect for their power and authority. The vocabulary that he uses poetic and he mentions little of war. He openly admits to marrying Desdemona, showing his honest character. Once more, though, Othello is being cleverer than his words let on. By admitting to the marriage straight away, the dukes are likely to think that he will not lie to them at all.

One downfall in Othello’s so far clever, honest character is his trust. He foolishly entrusts his new bride to Iago. Iago has already been depicted as an untrustworthy, scheming character and it is quite possible that he will take advantage of the new situation.

Iago is straight away introduced as a dubious character. Having his fingers in Roderigo’s purse show his interest in money. The language that he uses is vulgar and rude and he has no shame in his deceitful actions. In order to get what he wants, Iago will do anything. This includes insulting Desdemona, an innocent young woman who does not intend to harm anyone. Her sorrow at her divided loyalties shows this. Like her husband, Desdemona deals with situations carefully. Othello is the opposite of Iago in that he does not pride himself on killing people. It may be his strong point, but he feels that it should not be bragged about, especially in noble company.

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