Loyalty is important in all relationships. As I get older, and after having a baby, I have come to realize how important it is to be trusted. There are many things that can go wrong in a relationship, and not being able to trust your partner or friend can lead to the demise of your relationship or friendship. In Othello, Iago manipulates his trusting friends in hopes of improving his position. Three ways Iago manipulates his friends are: he leads Othello into believing Desdemona has been unfaithful to him, he makes Roderigo believe Desdemona is in love with Cassio, and has his wife "who is Desdemona's servant "steal a scarf Othello gave her.
"Honest- Iago manipulates Othello into believing that the lovely Desdemona is cheating on him. He uses the trust Othello puts in him to turn Othello against his wife. Iago is the primary reason there is any conflict in the play. He is a great judge of people and their characters and uses this to his benefit. Iago says to Othello, "I speak not yet of proof. Look to your wife; observe her well with Cassio; Wear your eye thus, not jealous nor secure: I would not have your free and noble nature, out of self bounty, be abused; look to't:-(3. 3. 196-200). It is after this quote, that Othello begins to wonder about his wife, and starts to look everywhere to find out the truth. Othello should have had faith in his wife. I feel that when you are in a relationship you should be totally committed and trusting of your partner, otherwise it probably won't work out. Due to the many problems that can surface in a relationship you need to be able to count on your friends. Some people will do whatever it takes to get to the top, and like in the play, it could be your closest friend.