Why didn't it occur to Othello that Iago might be upset about being passed over for the promotion?

Question

The entire storyline of *Othello* is precipitated by Iago's resentment over being passed over for a promotion in favor of Cassio. That being said, why doesn't it seem to occur to Othello that Iago might have reacted this way?

Answer 1

Huh. I've never considered this.

I'm not aware of any indication in the text of an explanation for this, so there isn't a *right* answer. This would be an important question to consider if you were adapting or producing the play.

My instinct would be that this didn't occur to Othello. He's self-absorbed and emotionally unintelligent enough to not consider this. He promoted the person he thought was best; why should anyone be upset? Besides, Iago went out of his way to pretend he wasn't upset, and Iago's ability to manipulate Othello is well established.