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Scene one also depicts the cunning Iago manipulates Roderigo into disliking the moor in the same way Iago jealously hates him. The ease with which Iago has exercised his great power of manipulation shows just how significant he is. Subjected to Iagos demeanour, Roderigos weak character reflects the human frailty which leads to self destruction of the other characters to come, giving the audience a brief insight into the tragic nature if the play. As a self-defined villain who takes pride in telling others about his masterful plan in an attempt to boost his pride and arrogance which could be a sign of how even the most intelligent and assertive characters have human faults, which can bring about their downfall through their undiscovered mistakes. This leaves little to the imagination of the audience as they witness a strong character like Iago with imperfections, suggesting when it comes to a more innocent and nave character such as Othello, his demise is inevitable when he encounters Iago.
Iago is truly a troubled character driven by his own insecurity, displayed in his yearning for a higher military status, which enables him to feel superior to those of smaller intellect and wit. This reveals that Iago is a character who embodies humane flaws found in the characters of others, which gives the audience the impression that Iago has the ability to use his overpowering charm to mesmerize and control the characters because he understands what their weaknesses are, as he encompasses some of them himself. It is just unfortunate for the other characters that Iago is more intellectual, enabling him to conceal his own insecurities and exploit those of others. This is apparent in the way he enjoys playing mind games because it gives him a chance to utilize his real power, his mind. He admits to himself doing this, quoting "thus ever do I make my fool a purse,"" suggesting he is using people to his own advantage potentially destroying them in the process.