The Evil Genius

William Shakespeare created one of the most sly villains of all time in his story, Othello, the Moor of Venice.  The villain, Iago, has a public reputation that is nearly spotless, with every character introduced thinking he is an honest and loyal friend.  This reputation proves to be his greatest weapon, as he frequently uses his good standing to advance his plot.  He has very manipulative methods, and is able to anticipate a person's reaction to something and prepare for it.  His charisma also proves to be another weapon of his.  He is able to talk Othello into a jealous mindset in one conversation without any proof at all.  He then is able to make up a complete lie and have Othello accept it as complete reality.  When Othello finally confronted him about having real, visible proof, he said, "To be direct and honest is not safe.  I thank you for this profit, and from hence I'll love no friend, sith love breeds such offense," (Shakespeare, 1416).  When Othello comes at him in an accusing manner, Iago turns the conversation around so the Moor actually feels like the jerk.  This high level of social skill will only lead to more manipulations, and eventually the likely conclusion to Iago's master plan for revenge.