Othello Lesson Plan

Consider Iago's stated reasons for manipulating and deceiving people. Are the reasons that he reveals in Act II convincing?

Iago claims to be acting on his own self-interest in two ways: 1) getting Cassio fired so that Iago can take over his position as lieutenant; and 2) getting revenge on Othello because Iago believes that Othello and Emilia have had an affair. These might be convincing reasons for Iago's actions, but as his manipulations become more and more elaborate and begin to ruin lives, it might seem to some readers that Iago has merely concocted excuses for his cruel impulses.

How does Cassio treat and speak about women in this act? Compare this to the ideas...