A plague upon it when thieves cannot be true one to another!

A plague upon it when thieves cannot be true one to another!

In William Shakespeare's play, "Othello," the character Iago speaks the line, "A plague upon it when thieves cannot be true one to another!" This line is spoken in Act 1, Scene 3, as Iago is discussing his plan to manipulate Othello and those around him for his own gain.

The line reflects Iago's cynical view of human nature and his belief that even thieves, who are typically known for their deceitful and dishonest behavior, should be able to trust each other. Iago's statement highlights the idea that betrayal and deception are common themes in the play, as characters manipulate and deceive each other for personal gain.

Iago's character is one of the most complex and intriguing in all of Shakespeare's works. He is a master manipulator, using his cunning and deceitful nature to orchestrate the downfall of those around him. Throughout the play, Iago's motives are unclear, and his actions are driven by a deep-seated jealousy and desire for revenge.

The line, "A plague upon it when thieves cannot be true one to another!" also speaks to the idea of loyalty and trust among criminals. In a world where deceit and betrayal are commonplace, even thieves should be able to rely on each other for support and honesty. Iago's lamentation reflects his disillusionment with the world around him and his belief that true loyalty and trust are rare commodities.

Overall, this line from "Othello" serves as a powerful reminder of the destructive nature of deceit and betrayal. It highlights the consequences of manipulation and dishonesty, as characters like Iago use their cunning to manipulate and deceive those around them. Shakespeare's exploration of these themes in "Othello" continues to resonate with audiences today, as we grapple with questions of trust, loyalty, and the true nature of human relationships.