Š It could be argued that his ludicrous antics make Roderigo more a comic caricature, a one- dimensional love-sick failure, than a fully rounded character. He is so weak and inept that Iago sees him simply as a pathetic figure of fun, ‘my sick fool’. Occasionally, Roderigo is even aware of his own overwhelming hopelessness, complaining at one point about being ‘exceedingly well cudgelled’. Predictably, as soon as he has outlived his usefulness, Roderigo is literally stabbed in the back by Iago, who tries
Othello
to blame everything on the hapless young nobleman.
Š As much a villain as a victim, Roderigo’s major dramatic function is to highlight the true character of his devious mentor, Iago. He also provides an interesting parallel to Othello. Both men are subject to irrational jealousy while being completely unaware of Iago’s deception. However, despite Roderigo’s miserable life and unfortunate death, it is hardly surprising that audiences tend to have little sympathy for him.
