In Othello many character advocate that free will is the only force present. All people have the power to control their destiny. Life if filled with choices and we are free to pick any of the innumerable paths in front of us. Iago explains to Rodrigo, “Virtue! a fig! 'tis in ourselves that we are thus or thus. Our bodies are our gardens, to the which our wills are gardeners” (1.3 361-3). The quote illustrates that you reap what you sow. Everything that happens to you is because of free will. Iago later says, “when this advice is free I give and honest, probable to thinking and indeed the course to win the Moor again” (2.3.357-9). The people Iago councils have the choice to follow his advice or not. He gives good advice about what the best course of action would be but only intends to ensnare the victims who chose to follow it. Despite his Free will, Iago fails to succeed in the end.
In Othello is seems that many of the actions are a result of environmental influences that are working independently from free will. Iago warns Othello, “Beware, my lord, of jealousy! It is the green eyed Monster…” (3.3.195-96). This suggests that the genetic inclination towards jealousy influences characters like Othello. Othello is overcome by jealousy and can’t control himself. Othello had the free will not to fall prey to these outside forces but it was inevitable. The path was already laid out for Othello and he was helpless not to follow it. Iago also says, “When devils will, the blackest sins put on, they do suggest at first with heavenly shows” (2.3.370-71). This also shows that environmental influences can be subtle and appear good, but they can lead you down the wrong pay. Othello was lead down the pay he believed fate destined for him.
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