Green-eyed monster
The green-eyed monster means jealousy, especially when it takes over someone's thoughts or behaviour; the phrase appears in Shakespeare's Othello. Today it can describe either fear of losing someone's love or envy of another person's success, possessions, or advantages.
Where it comes from
Jealousy in Othello
Iago describes jealousy as a green-eyed creature while pretending to warn Othello against it. His warning helps stir the very feeling he claims to oppose.
In Othello, Iago encourages Othello to suspect Desdemona and Cassio, although Desdemona has been faithful. Othello begins treating innocent behaviour as evidence against her.
In Othello by William Shakespeare
Jealousy and envy today
Today the phrase gives jealousy a creature's shape, as though it could take control of a person. It can sound playful about everyday envy, but it can also describe a destructive feeling.
In Little Women, Amy resents being left out of a theatre outing and burns Jo's manuscript in revenge. Her resentment offers a clear example of the feeling people now call the green-eyed monster.
In Little Women; Or, Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy by Louisa May Alcott
How to use Green-eyed monster
- Use the phrase for jealousy or envy.
- Show what the person fears losing or wishes to have.
- Choose a light or serious tone to suit the harm involved.
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Does the green-eyed monster mean jealousy or envy?
It can mean either jealousy or envy in everyday use. Jealousy usually involves fearing the loss of affection or attention, while envy means wanting what someone else has. In Othello, the phrase concerns jealousy about a supposedly unfaithful wife.
Is the green-eyed monster a real creature in Shakespeare?
No, it is an image of jealousy, not a creature that appears onstage. In Othello, Iago uses the image while manipulating Othello's fears about Desdemona. Calling the feeling a monster suggests that it can grow powerful and turn against the person feeling it.
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