Protagonist/Antagonist

Throughout Othello, there are several examples that display Iago as the antagonist of the story. For example, in II.iii.300-326, Iago speaks to himself and announces how his plan to destroy Cassio is going accordingly. Iago puts on a happy face, and pretends to be on Othello and Cassio's side; however, Iago is plotting to bring them both down. The protagonist of the story (so far) is Cassio. It is a hard pick between Cassio and Othello, but in all reality, Iago is angry because he believes he deserves Cassio's position as lieutenant; therefore, there is more jealousy between Cassio and Iago. The different characteristics between the two can be seen in II.i.165-166 when Cassio treats the women with respect, but Iago is rude and disrespectful. "He speaks home, madam. You may relish him more in the soldier than in the scholar." Not only do they play the protagonist/antagonist roles, but they are also foils. Without their contrasting personality traits it would be difficult to see the conflict between the two. Also, it makes it easier to take sides between the villain and the hero. By seeing an evil side to Iago, we can tell that his motives for his actions are selfish, and derive from jealousy.