Othello

In Othello Act 2 the Christian Mode is represented through the characters Cassio and Iago as they share with the audience their perspective on sinning and redemption with god. While Iago is highlighted as the main sinner in the play Cassio also plays a crucial role in betrayal. Both characters discus their sin and the consequences on page 583 as they go in depth with the roles god may have on their "punishment" if a god does exist. Cassio shares with Iago his perspective stating, "Well God's above all and there be souls must be saved, and there be souls must not be saved." (583) Cassio illustrates the Christian mode in this line by demonstrating his view point on heaven in hell in terms of who god chooses to redeem after they have sinned. While it probably could be interpreted as god saving anyone, regardless of if they have sinned I connected it to Cassio describing to Iago that although he has sin he has no control on whether he is a "chosen one" to be saved by their almighty god. As Iago agrees Cassio continues saying, "For mine own part-no offense to the general, nor any man of quality- I hope to be saved." (583) While the text gives us insight on how Cassio is referring the "no offense" comment to the doctrine of predestination belief that some individuals are doomed from the start he nevertheless hopes to be a saved soul in the end. The christian mode is a crucial part of this play because both characters are coming to terms with the realization of their actions, and having them share their fears and hopes of being saved or not allows us, the audience to feel empathy for them. Therefore at this point of the story are we as the reader suppose to understand Iago's perspective more and feel sympathy for him? Or are we suppose to feel for Othello, while he is the victim in this scheme, despite having the girl.