In Act 2 scene 3, I don't understand why Cassio doesn't man up and ask Othello directly for forgiveness. Is it because he's too ashamed of stabbing Montano? Why does he listen to Iago's advice? After all, doesn't Cassio believe he's better than Iago?
Being ashamed of his drunken behavior could definitely be a reason why. I think he listened to Iago solely because he was drunk when Iago told him what to do. Cassio was ashamed and embarassed and a mess and drunk; all of these things make someone an easy target for manipulation. And Cassio believes he's better than Iago when he's sober, I think that Iago held the upper hand in their conversation, making Cassio the student and Iago the teacher.
ReplyDeleteI don’t think it occurs to Cassio to go to Othello directly. After Othello leaves, Cassio whines to Iago about losing his reputation but not about losing his job. When Iago gives him a plan to gain back his reputation and to get back on Othello’s good side, Cassio is too drunk to think twice about Iago’s trustworthiness, or to come up with a better plan that involves going directly to Othello.
ReplyDeleteI guess there's nothing easier than to tell someone who has messed up what to do. Maybe it's much hard than to do so yourself, especially if it involves saying you're sorry and begging forgiveness. Note how often Iago will reverse his role with people on stage. He is of a lower rank, but he will take charge often and even become the "general's general," as he calls Desdemona!
ReplyDeleteI think one of the main reasons why Cassio listens to Iago's advice is that Iago is convincing. Iago is talented at making people do something even if it is not in their best interest. In addition, Cassio is more vulnerable while emotional so it is easier for him to be manipulated by Iago.
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