Iago monologue from Othello

Iago’s monologue

Thus do I ever make my fool my purse:

For I mine own gain'd knowledge should profane,

If I would time expend with such a snipe.

But for my sport and profit. I hate the Moor:

5And it is thought abroad, that 'twixt my sheets

He has done my office: I know not if't be true;

But I, for mere suspicion in that kind,

Will do as if for surety. He holds me well;

The better shall my purpose work on him.

10Cassio's a proper man: let me see now:

To get his place and to plume up my will

In double knavery—How, how? Let's see:—

After some time, to abuse Othello's ear

That he is too familiar with his wife.

15He hath a person and a smooth dispose

To be suspected, framed to make women false.

The Moor is of a free and open nature,

That thinks men honest that but seem to be so,

And will as tenderly be led by the nose As asses are.

20I have't. It is engender'd. Hell and night

Must bring this monstrous birth to the world's light.

Public domain text.