Is it destined that we as a people will be brought to destruction by our own means? In the story of Othello, Iago tries to prove this point to everyone around him. Through manipulation and lies, the evil Iago shows how people can quickly come to distrust others and escalate situations to the point of death. Iago's hope is not only to cause destruction, but also to watch others bring it upon themselves. Playing the role of both trusted friend and cunning controller, Iago illustrates how one man's knowledge of human nature can direct the actions of those around him. Othello: Iago's influence on others begins in the right way by having a pre-established trust between Othello and himself. . It is evident from Act II that the Moor's trust in Iago is absolute. “What's going on, masters? / Honest Iago, who seems dead with grief, / Speaks. Who started all this? Of your love, I beg you” (II.iii.165-167). The confidence with which Othello is ready to believe Iago right away shows the power Iago truly holds over his master. Iago's observance and silent assumption of Othello both in battle and as a leader gave Iago the upper hand in realizing the Moor's weaknesses. AC Bradley, who studied Shakespeare's great tragedies, believes that “...Othello's mind, for all his poetry, is very simple. He is not an observer. Its nature tends towards the outside. He is quite free from introspection and is not given to reflection. Emotion excites his imagination, but confuses and clouds his intellect” (AC Bradley, Shakespearean Tragedy). Iago is well aware of Othello's "quickly trusting" mentality and uses this, along with the hero's passionate means in carrying out his affairs, to bring him down. The thought was once repeated enough to Othello that his s...... middle of paper...... themselves, but that he cannot destroy what is intrinsically good in them. End: In Act V Iago is discovered, with everyone around him injured or dead. He achieved his ultimate goal; bringing down those around him through his own flaws and tendencies. He states: “Don't ask me anything. What you know, you know. / From now on I will never speak again" (V. ii. 303-304). Iago was discovered by Emilia, but he proved his point. To send his message even further Iago swears not to speak never again; this The message of silence consolidates the idea that he tried to spread throughout the work. All those who live can see the evidence of the darkest side of human nature believe they are intrinsically good. When they are truly tested about their beliefs, they fall into the darkest depths under pressure.