Final answer:
Iago's comparison of Othello to a canon suggests Othello's potential for might and destructiveness, embodying Iago's view of Othello as a force to be reckoned with and manipulated for his machinations.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Othello, when Iago compares Othello to a canon, it is likely that he is using it as a metaphor for Othello's powerful and destructive potential, similar to that of a large cannon of the time which was capable of inflicting significant damage.
This comparison reflects Iago's manipulative nature as he sees Othello both as a strong warrior and a weapon that he can exploit for his own purposes. The canon/cannon homophone here also plays to the theme of linguistic duality and misconception which is prevalent throughout the play.
In the play Othello, Iago compares Othello to a canon to indicate that Othello is considered a significant figure in the literary canon, or collection of works that are considered to be important and influential in literature.
By comparing Othello to a canon, Iago suggests that Othello is a work of literature that holds great value and should be studied and respected.