Othello is first introduced in the opening dialogue between Roderigo, Iago and Brabantio. His name is not used and he is referred to as `the Moor', `the thick lips' `the old black ram', `the devil', `Barbary Horse' and `lascivious Moor'. Iago describes him as `horribly stuffed with epithets of war' and `loving his own pride and purposes'. From these descriptions, the responder immediately understands that none of these characters like Othello. The extreme bias of their opinions has the effect of making the responder question them, and not immediately assume Othello is as he is described.

In addition to the derogatory statements made, Iago grudgingly praises Othello, further heightening the sense that Othello may not be as Iago sees him. Iago says `the state cannot with safety cast him' and even admits that `another of his fathom they have none'. Shakespeare uses a character who plainly does...