Thanks for the post. It's good to be reminded that people are still thinking about these questions and are actually reading Shakespeare. What struck me most in this essay was how strongly it echoes Coleridge’s insight into Iago, especially his remark about the “motive-hunting of motiveless malignity.” Reading your analysis took me back to my first encounters with Coleridge’s lectures on Shakespeare, where he tried to make sense of the same unsettling quality you describe so well: Iago’s evil isn’t grounded in any real motive. It seems to create itself out of contradiction.
There was something unexpectedly nostalgic about that. Coleridge understood that Iago disturbs us because he cannot be reduced to psychology or circumstance. He becomes a kind of pure force of corruption.
Oh, you’re going to have a blast with that one. His lectures played a major role in shaping how Shakespeare was interpreted in the nineteenth century. Especially the psychological dimension. Happy reading!
Thanks for the post. It's good to be reminded that people are still thinking about these questions and are actually reading Shakespeare. What struck me most in this essay was how strongly it echoes Coleridge’s insight into Iago, especially his remark about the “motive-hunting of motiveless malignity.” Reading your analysis took me back to my first encounters with Coleridge’s lectures on Shakespeare, where he tried to make sense of the same unsettling quality you describe so well: Iago’s evil isn’t grounded in any real motive. It seems to create itself out of contradiction.
There was something unexpectedly nostalgic about that. Coleridge understood that Iago disturbs us because he cannot be reduced to psychology or circumstance. He becomes a kind of pure force of corruption.
Very well said Maninder! I was unaware Coleridge lectured on Shakespeare. Will have to look into his insights 🙏
Oh, you’re going to have a blast with that one. His lectures played a major role in shaping how Shakespeare was interpreted in the nineteenth century. Especially the psychological dimension. Happy reading!
I don't have too much to add other than I loved reading this. Great topic, very well written. Iago has always been a favorite of mine.
Thanks Kelley! That means a lot 🙏
Really enjoyed this , thank you
Thanks Jake! I appreciate you reading 🙏