Othello

     In Othello by William Shakespeare Iago speaks in prose in some situations and then switches to poetry in other instances.  My theory as to way he changes is to show his multiple personalities.  Iago is two-faced and that is more distinct through the different ways that he speaks. After speaking with Roderigo, Iago switches to poetry and says that Othello "holds me well, The better shall my purpose work on him" (I.iii.370-371).  Iago is planning to hurt Othello and he makes this clear when he has time to speak by himself.  I think as the play moves forward it will become more clear as to why Iago switches.  As of now I am sticking to my theory that it is to show Iago's evil side as well as his honest side.  Hopefully it will turn on him, and he will be caught.  It was very smart of Shakespeare to use the style of writing as a way to further display the qualities of a character like Iago.  It adds to how crazy and evil Iago really is.