The scene surrounding this passage is Othello’s transformation from a reasonable person to being totally taken in by Iago’s lies and losing all trust in Desdemona. In his lie, Iago attempts to give Othello “a living reason” (3.3.466). After Iago’s tale, Othello is completely convinced. This scene brings into question reasonable sources of evidence. Is sleep talking evidence? Is someone’s account of an event reliable evidence? The play answers definitively no. Also ironic is Iago’s ability to seduce Othello with a tale whereas earlier in the play Othello was renowned for his story telling abilities. As Iago becomes more convincing with his words, Othello loses his voice.
Furthermore how does this scene bring homosociality to a crisis when the homoerotic comes into play? Here Iago describes a scene of homoerotic behavior, including kissing and mounting, without hesitation. Moreover the scene ends with the infamous “marriage” between Othello and Iago as they each exchange vows of devotion and loyalty. Is Othello jealous of Cassio because he is with Desdemona, or because Cassio is with Iago? Furthermore, this changes how we read Iago’s character and his motives; perhaps he is jealous of Desdemona.
Finally, Iago begins his tale saying he is “pricked to [tell it] by foolish honesty and love” (3.3.469). It is ironic because Othello is the one that is foolish in where he gives his trust and love. Also it is interesting to notice that even Iago describes himself as "honest," the one word most often and ironically attached to his name.
-Shayda Javadizadeh
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