Othello #2: Act 2, Scene 1

            In the play Othello by William Shakespeare, Iago continues to manipulate others for his own benefit; however, no one seems to know that Iago is being deceitful. When Desdemona asks Iago how he ‘praises’ different types of people, Iago describes each type in a clever, but somewhat cruel, way. Desdemona appears horrified by Iago’s classifications, so Cassio explains that Iago “speaks home” (II.i.180). ‘Speaking home’ means that Iago speaks bluntly and honestly about others; Iago is not the best speaker, but Iago speaks the truth. However, Iago is not truthful. Iago is trying to go behind Cassio’s back so that Iago can be promoted to the position of Lieutenant. Iago reveals the plan to get Cassio demoted to Roderigo after Cassio and Desdemona leave the scene. The audience knows of Iago’s selfish intentions, but Iago continues to convince each person he talks to that he is acting in the person’s best interest. All in all, Iago cannot be trusted, for Iago is only looking to get revenge on Othello for choosing Cassio to be Lieutenant instead of Iago.