3.202-03), Othello readily believes him. Othello is also insecure in his relationship with Desdemona, because he significantly older than her, he struggles to see why she would love him and he constantly has to reassure himself of her love "For she had eyes, and chose me " (3.3.189). Throughout the play, seeds of doubt are planted in Othello's mind about Desdemona's faith and loyalty. In the beginning of the play, Brabantio tells Othello, "Look to her, Moor, if thou hast eyes to see: She has deceived her father. And may thee " (1.3.292-93) and throughout the play, Iago inundates Othello with manipulative comments, "Not to affect many proposed matches Of her own clime, complexion, and degree one may smell in such a will most rank " (3.3.230-33). These comments are constantly fed to him throughout the play, taking advantage of his insecurities and making him question Desdemona's love for him even more, "Haply, for I am black And have not those soft parts of conversation or for I am declined Into the vale of years She's gone " (3.3.263-67).
Pride is another of Othello's flaws that slowly destroys him and those around him. As a General in the Venetian army and having come from royalty, Othello holds a position of power in society and, despite his insecurities about his personal qualities, he places great importance on his reputation and is proud of his standing within the community. It is this strong sense of pride that causes Othello to react so radically when he believes that Desdemona has been unfaithful. Instead of confronting Desdemona about her infidelity, he keeps it to himself and lets the jealousy slowly consume him until he resolves to kill her "Ay, let her rot, and perish, and be damned I will chop her into messes! "(4.1.180-198). Othello's pride also stops him from believing Emilia and Desdemona when they tell him that she is loyal, "She says enough; yet she's a simple bawd That cannot say as much " (4.