Critical interpretations: Deception

Question 1

Samuel Johnson

Answer 1

The cool malignity of Iago, silent in his resentment, subtle in his designs.

Question 2

S.T Coleridge

Answer 2

Iago is a being next to the devil only not quite devil.

Question 3

Kiernan Ryan

Answer 3

Iago’s devious stratagem works so well because it reflects his victim’s own beliefs, confirms their suspicions and fulfils their expectations.

Question 4

Alexandra Melville

Answer 4

Iago’s success lies in his ability to distort and pervert what should be other characters’ most positive traits.

Question 5

William Hazlitt

Answer 5

Iago is an example of the typical stage Machiavel who personifies rationality, self-interest, hypocrisy, cunning, expediency and efficient ‘policie’,