"Othello" Act III scene 3 lines 192-205

Iago (to Othello):
I am glad of this; for now I shall have reason
To show the love and duty that I bear you
With franker spirit. Therefore, as I am bound,
Receive it from me. I speak not yet of proof.
Look to your wife; observe her well with Cassio;
Wear you eyes thus, not jealous nor secure.
I would not have your free and noble nature,
Out of self-bounty, be abused. Look to't.
I know our country disposition well:
In Venice they do not let God see the pranks
They dare not show their husbands; their best conscience
Is not to leave't undone, but keep't unknown.

In this passage Iago tries to convince Othello that Desdemona has been cheating on Othello. This shows a lot about Iago's character and ability to manipulate language. The order in which he speaks and tries to lead Othello’s mind is significant in Othello being convinced. By beginning with "love and duty" Othello rather than Desdemona, Iago makes his thoughts regarding her secondary and his duty to Othello most important. But the language is ambiguous if read closely. Iago says "the love and duty that I bear you" but never says how much that it, introducing the possibility that he bears very little. He then tells Othelllo to receive what Iago is bound to give, but Iago does not feel he owes Othello much or he would not be using him in this way. Iago mocks Othello while simultaneously manipulating him. When Iago speaks of his knowledge of Venetian women’s reputation, he goes a step further in talking down to Othello. Othello is reminded that he is not from the same geographical area as the others. Iago is able to manipulate this to make himself look good and to make Othello worry and feel his otherness. Iago is still asserting his superiority. This passage also shows betrayal and questions the power of military ranks and bonds.