A truly evil character is someone who causes harm, misfortune, or destruction. In the play "Othello" by William Shakespeare, Iago inflicts all three of these concepys upon those around him. Iago portrays himself as an honest friend, but underneath his masquerade of lies, his true motive is to undo others. He knows what is most important to other people, who can be easily manipulated, and how to turn the tables to work in his favour. Iago's intelligence, his will to hurt innocent people, and improvisation skills all exaggerate his ability to manipulate those around him.
             Iago is a master of psychology. He uses the knowledge he has of one's strengths, weaknesses, and desires to get what he wants. For example, Iago is aware of the importance of Desdemona's loyalty to her father, especially in their society. He purposely places vile images of Othello, in Brabantio's mind of "an old black ram Tupping [his] white ewe" knowing it will enrage him (I.i.97-98). The news of Desdemona's elopement causes Brabantio to seek revenge on Othello, which is exactly what Iago wants. Clearly Iago knows how to take what people care about most and use it as a tool to manipulate them. Furthermore, Iago orders his wife Emilia to steal Desdemona and Othello's first gift; the handkerchief. Iago places it in Cassio's room to create the illusion that Desdemona and Cassio are having an affair. This not only provides Othello with ocular proof that Desdemona has been unfaithful, but causes the wound to burn to its outmost potential because it seems as though Desdemona has given away something so precious and meaningful to Cassio. It is clear that Iago uses his knowledge of others to make his plans most effective. Finally, Iago convinces Roderigo that "It Cannot be long that Desdemona should continue her Love to the moor" even though it is obvious Desdemona and Othello are happily married (I.iii.135-137). Iago says this...