THIS... IS.... WARRRRRRRR!

The first and foremost example of a warlike atmosphere in the play is in the first scene of act 1. Iago's disdain for Othello erupts when Othello chooses Cassio over Iago to be his second-in-command. Iago's first monologue is full of war-terms referring to the military or describing those in (or in Cassio's case, not in) the military, i.e. "epithets of war," "lieutenant," "squadron in the field," "battle," "soldiership." Although these snippets do not refer to the war that takes place between the characters, I think it is significant that Iago weaves his web of turmoil because he is not chosen to be in a high position of war.

Iago obviously creates the warlike atmosphere, and that is why he is the most active participant in the war. In his mind Othello is the enemy, and he must do anything and everything to bring Othello down. Once Iago begins to weave his web, there is no way to stop him. He becomes obsessed with the idea of bringing Othello down, so he manipulates everyone into his personal war. Iago easily manipulates Roderigo, who will do anything for his love. Roderigo eventually becomes obsessed (or as obsessed as a man can get who is not totally with it) with the idea of winning Desdemona's love through Iago. To Roderigo, Iago is actually capable of winning Desdemona's love for Roderigo. Therefore he devotes his time and efforts to Iago to win the woman he loves.