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Othello Monologues and Soliloquies
14
Analysis
Parts of this monologue reveal Iago's character.
- recognizes his supporting role to Othello
- source of plot?
- further evidence that he wants the best for himself
- portrays himself with connections to god(s)
Contrasting bible, exodus 3.14 "I am what I am"
shows values differing from 'normal' religious values
" I follow him to serve my turn upon him.
We cannot all be masters, nor all masters
can be truly followed. You shall mark
Many a duteous and knee-crooking knave
That, doting on his own obsequious bondage,
Wears out his time, much like his masters ass,
For naught but provender, but when he's old,
cashiered
Whip me such honest naves! Others there are
Who trimmed in forms of visages of duty,
Keep yet their hearts attending on themselves
And, throwing but shows of service on their lords,
Do well thrive by them; and when they have lined
their coats,
Do themselves homage. These fellows have some soul,
And such a one do I profess myself. For, sir,
It is as you are Roderigo,
Were I the moor I would not be Iago.
In following him, I follow but myself.
Heaven is my judge, not I for love and duty,
But seeming so for my peculiar end.
For when my outward action doth demonstrate
The native act of and figure of my heart
In complement extern, 'tis not long after
But I will wear my heart upon my sleeve
For daws to peck at. I am not what I am (I.i. 45-71)
Context
- Act I Scene I
- Iago monologue
- foreshadows plot
- characterizes Iago
Context and Background
- takes place on Greek island of Cyprus
- central conflict = Iago vs. Othello