“I am not what I am” : Iago’s Self Doubt and Uncertainty

One of the most interesting characters and facets of Othello is its villain, Iago. Throughout the play, Iago makes himself out to be a very assured and controlled man. Yet, in reality, not only is he unsure of himself but he does not have much self-esteem either. He is, in fact, one of the only players in this play who is truly jealous. His self doubt and need to boost his ego is what leads …

…and set on revenge. He is not sure what the outcome of his plan will be, but his only purpose is to make Othello suffer through the same jealousy that he has felt. Iago is a very human man with human feelings. He has doubts and uncertainties about himself that he is not able to admit to. These uncertainties and doubts make him seem like more of a human being than a cold hearted villain.