Iago pushes the idea of him being an honest man to the point where he brainwashes others into believing he is honest then uses it to his advantage. When plotting to break up a happy marriage or seeking revenge on others he uses phrases such as, "As honest as I am", "As I am an honest man", and "in the sincerity of love and honest kindness". None of these phrases portray the true feelings of Iago. In fact in Act I scene I he tells Roderigo of how only a fool acts honest and he suggests putting oneself before honesty, which is exactly what he does. Others begin to view Iago as an honest man, especially Othello. He is described by Othello as "a fellow of exceeding honesty", Cassio claims to never have met a Florentine so kind and honest. Desdemona tells Emily that Iago is an honest man and Othello feels that his honesty and love "doth mince" the matter of Cassio's being fired. In fact, Othello tells the governor that Iago is a man of honesty and trust and even puts his wife in Iago's hands while he is away. Iago uses this trust to his advantage. "He holds me well, the better shall my purpose work on him" (1.3, lines 391-392) Iago uses Othello's trust to exact revenge upon him for not giving him the job he wanted and sleeping with his wife, which was actually an unlikely rumor that hadn't been proved. Other characters in the play are not completely honest. Desdemona does not tell her father about her elopement with Othello, and Roderigo is always trying to steal Desdemona away from Othello. However, no one is as dishonest, amoral, and downright corrupt as Iago. Yet, oddly enough, Iago is praised for his honesty far more than any other character. Which shows the naivet? of the characters and the irony of the play....
