Is it destiny that we, as a people, are brought to destruction by our own means? In the story of Othello, Iago seeks to prove this point to everyone around him. Through manipulation and lies, the villainous Iago shows how people can quickly distrust others and escalate situations to the point of death. Iago's hope is not only to cause destruction, but to watch others inflict it on themselves. By playing the role of both a trustworthy friend and a devious controller, Iago illustrates how a man's knowledge of human nature can direct the actions of those around him. Othello: Iago's influence on others begins well with a pre-established trust between Othello and himself. . It is evident from Act II that the Moor's trust in Iago is absolute. “What is it, masters?” / Honest Iago, who looks dead with grief, / Speaks. Who started this? I charge you with your love” (II.iii.165-167). The confidence with which Othello is ready to immediately believe Iago shows the power Iago truly holds over his master. Iago's observance and quiet taking of Othello in both battles and as leader gave Iago the advantage of realizing the Moor's weaknesses. AC Bradley, who has studied the great tragedies of Shakespeare, believes that “…the spirit of Othello, for all his poetry, is very simple. He is not an observer. Its nature is outward-looking. He is quite free from introspection and not very inclined to reflect. Emotion excites his imagination, but it disturbs and dulls his intellect” (AC Bradley, Shakespearean Tragedy). Iago is well aware of Othello's "quick to trust" mentality and uses it along with the hero's passionate means to carry out his affairs to break him. Once the idea was sufficiently repeated to Othello that his s...... middle of paper...... themselves, but that he cannot destroy what is good in them self. Ending: In Act V, Iago is discovered, along with everyone around him, injured or dead. He achieved his ultimate goal; bringing down those around him because of their own flaws and tendencies. He says: “Don’t ask me anything. What you know, you know. / From now on I will never speak words again" (V. ii. 303-304). Iago was discovered thanks to Emilia yes, but he proved his point. To send his message even further, Iago vows never to speak again; this message of silence solidifies the idea he has been trying to promote throughout the play. All who live can see evidence of the darker side of human nature in the. bodies of those who have died A person may believe that they are inherently good but when they are truly tested as to their beliefs, they fall to the darkest depths under pressure...