Iago's scheming nature and his manipulative way with words are evident from Act 1 scene i where he incites the poor Roderigo to tell Brabantia about Othello's and Desdemona's marriage.

Throughout the play his cleverly chosen words influence Roderigo, Cassio, Emilia and Desdemona. But it is in his conversations with Othello that he masterly uses words to get what he wants. It is also Othello, the outsider, who is most vulnerable to Iago's manipulative ways.

In Act 1 scene I Iago threatens that he would hurt Roderigo; making a false show of loyalty to Othello.

"I had thought to have, yerked him here under the ribs"

His duplicity is again exhibited in this scene as his tone swings from friendly to backbiting as soon as Othello steps away. Iago acted supportive of Othello's...