Shrewd and devious behaviour, especially for his own benefit is perpetuated by the manipulative and evil Iago throughout the Shakespearean tragedy Othello. Iago tampers with the truth and falsifies events in an attempt to secure power and seek revenge. In his quest for power no one is safe from his devious deeds. His lies and manipulative tales ultimately prove destructive to the other characters in the play. Iago appears to be without conscience, continuing to fabricate stories and initiate rumors. Iago is cynical; obsessed with his own personal gain. His manipulative and spiteful behaviour leads to the thirst for revenge, the betrayal of friendships, and the destruction of love.
             The hunger and quest for revenge, the result of jealousy leads to the downfall of a number of Shakespearean characters in the play, Othello. Iago is extremely manipulative and power oriented, yearning to be in control and exercise authority. When news of Cassio's promotion reaches him he is overcome with jealousy and vows to seek the ultimate revenge - Cassio's dismissal. Iago rants that he will "have our Michael Cassio on the hip, abuse him to the Moor in the rank garb - For I fear Cassio with my night-cap
             too" (37). At the dual celebration for Desdemona's and Othello's marriage and the end of the Turkish threat to Cyprus, Iago sets his plan in motion by persuading Cassio to indulge in too many cups of wine. Iago insists that Cassio have "but one cup" (39) "that would fain have measure to the health of black Othello" (39). With Cassio in this vulnerable state, Iago hopes a feud between Roderigo and Cassio will develop. His plan for revenge meets with great success. A fight occurs between Cassio and Montano. Othello hears the sudden commotion and immediately leaves his quarters and appears at the town square to strip Cassio of his noble title. Othello makes a point of if to assure Cassio that he does "love thee, but nevermore...