Friday, December 20, 2013

What persuasive techniques does Iago use towards Roderigo, Othello & Brabantio?

In Othello, Iago uses logos, pathos,
and ethos to persuade characters.  At the beginning of the play, the audience learns
that Iago feels slighted by Othello because Othello offered a new position to Michael
Cassio instead of offering it to Iago.  Iago tells Roderigo that he will be handsomely
rewarded if he helps him inform Brabantio that his daughter has been secretly wed to
Othello.  Besides offering money, Iago also tells Roderigo about his loyalty to Othello,
and Roderigo is moved by the seeming betrayal.  When the two get Brabantio's attention,
Iago uses Othello's ethnic background to slander him and make him appear unworthy of
Desdemona.  As his scheme unfolds, Iago is also able to use these devices against
Othello by feigning his loyalty to work against Othello's ultimate
trust.

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