In Othello, the opening passage by Iago gives us some vital information about not only the play and what might unfold, but about Iago himself and his very intricate character. We see in this opening passage Iago confessing his hatred of Othello to Roderigo because he was not chosen to be lieutenant. Iago starts off by giving one of a few reasons why he should have been chosen . He says, “Three great ones of the city, In personal suit to make me his lieutenant, Off-capp’d to him.” (Act 1. Scene 1. Lines 8-10). According to Iago, “Three great ones of the city” were personally backing him for this position. Although we don’t know who these people are, we can assume that they are well respected individuals whose opinion carry some weight with it. Now upon giving such recommendation, they also off-capp’d (took off their caps) to Othello which is a sign of respect and humility from one individual to another. This type of behavior would only help to prove Iago’s eligibility for this position because such behavior would also be expected of Iago. However as we know, Iago didn’t receive this position but instead Michael Cassio did, who Iago feels was completely undeserving of this title. Iago says, “says he, ‘I have already chose my officer.’ And what was he? Forsooth, a great arithmetician, One Michael Cassio, a Florentine” (Act 1. Scene 1. Lines 16-20). Iago starts of by proving Cassio’s unworthiness of the job of lieutenant by defining him as an arithmetician, which is someone who has the knowledge of war but has never had any actual experience in battle. He also defines him as a “Florentine” which in this context is someone who is clearly not a native to Venice, the setting of the play. So all in all, an inexperienced foreigner was chosen instead of Iago despite the recommendations and military experience he had. This is the core of Iago’s hatred towards Othello and it is important to note this because it gives us some insight into his motives to seek revenge against him. One last interesting thing from this passage is how Iago ends it. He says “And I -God bless the mark!- his Moorship’s ancient.” (Act 1. Scene 1. Line 33). What is interesting is how he doesn’t refer to Othello by name, but instead calls him a moor which is an offensive word to define someone of color. We know that Iago hates Othello, but this line gives his hatred some meaning and intensity because he uses that word with passion. He truly has no respect for Othello.