Othello 5

Othello is a dynamic character whose personality drastically changes in Act four Scene one of Othello. In the first three Acts, Othello is characterized as an eloquent, intelligent member of the upper class. Through his advance diction and respectful relationships with Venetian socialites, Othello solidifies his place among the aristocrats. However, in Cyprus, Othello's actions are very different. Because of Iago's deception, Othello is convinced that Desdemona is an adulterer. Othello's speech changes from eloquence to harsh hateful commentary. His demeanor is no longer of an upstanding general, but of a menacing child. When an envoy from Venice comes to visit Othello, he is very surprised by Othello's changed personality. The envoy remarks, "My lord, this would not be believed in Venice, Though I should swear I saw 't" (IV.i.270-1). Othello's actions to his wife are shocking to the messenger. The past views of Othello are so drastically different than the new Othello that the messenger cannot believe what he is seeing. The characterization of Othello quickly changes from an honorable general to a distressed man all because of Iago's deception and trickery.