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There is no doubt in « Othello » as to the role Shakespeare has given Iago, he is the villain, masterful at deceit he generates most evil in the play. The clever soldier, his incredible acting allows him to be two or three completely different people. During most of the Act the audience finds itself constantly trying to find a motive for Iago’s actions but finds none that can justify what he is about to do. …

…for a « double knavery ». His opportunistic side is revealed here as he imagines a way of persuading Othello that his wife has been cheating on him with Cassio, the man who Othello chose over him. Shakespeare ends the scene very dramatically with « I have’t! It is engendered! Hell and night Must bring this monstrous birth to the world’s light ». The whole line has an evil feel to it and symbolizes Iago’s evil.