In the play Othello, two major themes are Honesty and Honor. One way that Honesty is portrayed in Othello is through the usage of irony. Throughout Act 3 and 5, the basis of the story is that Othello doesn’t believe his wife, Desdemona, but instead believes Iago, the least honest character in the play. This displays irony since Iago, who uses dishonesty to manipulate Othello, is the most trusting person in the eyes of every single character. Whenever a character calls Iago, “Honest Iago,” this label is both complementary and patronizing for it is commonly used to pat inferiors on the head, with the inferior being Iago.This label can also serve as a symbol of trust because Othello is mainly the one that says this to Iago and he trusts him completely.
