Character Analysis: Iago An antagonist, who opposes and contends against the other characters, is an important element in any tragic play. This idea is certainly well portrayed in William Shakespeare's infamous play Othello. Antagonism is the main focus of the play since Iago, Othello's ancient, betrays his those who are closest to him. Iago is manipulative, hypocritical and deceptive while spinning his elaborate web of lies. To begin with, Iago is incredibly manipulative. He seems …showed first 75 words of 954 total…

…showed last 75 words of 954 total…of his elaborate schemes, Iago happens to be a truly devious man. Certainly, Iago is the antagonist in the tragedy of Othello, since he is manipulative, hypocritical and devious. He betrays his closest friends and lies about their true intentions, which ultimately leads to the deaths of many. Antagonism is an important element in the development and conclusion of a tragic play, since it is the cause of the controversy that the play focuses on.