Act 2 Scene 1
What sort of person is Cassio?
Cassio is tactile and open. although he is the person Iago uses in his plan to usurp power Cassio remains honest and truthful through the play at times seeming as though he may be the true victim of the story. He values honesty and trust 'give us truth'. he works well as a lieutenant as he understands what it means to follow orders and show respect 'valiant of this warlike isle, that so approve the moor!' he treats women with a level of respect not seen by many of the other men in the play 'hail to thee lady' this all plays into the idea of him being a respectful man but also fit with the idea of him being in some way different from the people of Venice,as he much like Othello is from somewhere else and even though its only Florence it still creates a difference.
How does Iago plan to use Cassio’s character traits to usurp and ensnare both Cassio and Othello?
Iago plans to use his power's of manipulation to prey on Othello's trusting nature and Cassio's friendly attitude as a way of gaining the ranking he feels he deserves he will do this by planting the seed of doubt in Othello's mind that his new wife, whom he loves so muck but who everyone else still maintains does not love him, is having and affair with Cassio a man which he claims to trust more than anyone else. Iago plans to exploit Cassios attempt to welcome Desdemona and make her feel welcome in Cyprus and instead make it appear like he is trying to seduce her 'better you had not kissed your three fingers' 'such tricks as this strip you out of your lieutenancy'. Iago believes that as a reward for showing Othello what's happening between Desdemona and Cassio Othello will reward him with cassios status 'make the moor thank me, love me, reward me'.
What does Iago tell Roderigo to do, and why does Iago say it will help Roderigo to win Desdemona’s heart?
Iago tells Roderigo to anger Cassio while he is drunk 'find some occasion to anger Cassio, either by speaking too loud, or tainting his discipline' because if Cassio fights in a physical confrontation he will be stripped of his lieutenancy and Iago already knows by reputation his Cassio gets aggressive when drunk ''he's rash and sudden in choler'. Iago persuades Roderigo to partake in this plan by suggesting that with Cassio out of the way it will be easier for Roderigo to win the heart of Desdemona and finally get what he wants 'so shall you have a shorter journey to your desires'.
