The surface, the exterior boundary of an object, the outward appearance or in the case of Iago the face he wanted people to see. The face everyone saw was one of loyalty, friendship and love. No one saw his action for what they truly where until it was too late.
‘For when my outward action doth demonstrate the native act and figure of my heart’ (Shakespeare, 2007). Here Iago is admitting that he is not who he says he is. Everyone around him seems to be taken in by his other side except Rodregio, he has moments of clarity which Iago clouds with his silver tongue. ‘I cannot believe that in her; she’s full of most blessed condition’ (Shakespeare, 2007). Here we see Rodregio going against Iago’s words and him showing some intelligence against the poison he is being feed. Then he falters and falls for Iago’s deceit.
Iago is a manipulator and a deceiver, nothing he does in the play shows any love for anyone other than himself. He says hates the Moor for many different reasons. One reason that seems to be over looked, ‘There is a suggestion that Othello may have had an affair with Iago’s wife, Emilia’ Read more: http://shakespeare-tragedies.suite101.com/article.cfm/character_analysis_of_iago#ixzz0V8v9ih8T(Markham, 2009). But again this accusation comes under his thinking and no real proof which seems to be how he gets everyone else in the play. He spoke of a possible affair with his wife but admits he cannot prove it but still insist it is part of his hate, ‘But I, for mere suspicion in that kind,’ (Shakespeare, 2007).
His hate for this man, Othello, seems to stem from many areas: The passing over of a certain position that was given to Cassio, the notion his wife cheated on him with Othello, monitary gain from playing Roderigo the fool and another; for the sport of it. ‘But for my sport and profit. I hate the Moor,’ (Shakespeare, 2007). Here he mentions that it isn’t just for the revenge, ambition or a personal gripe he has with the Moor, but...