Desdemona 1


 

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                Desdemona is a symbol of absolute purity and honesty.  She is the daughter of the powerful senator Barbantio. She falls in love with the black general Othello, and they get married in secret. Othello’s suspicion was sparked by the words of her father, “Look to her, Moor, if thou hast eyes to see/ she has deceived her father, and may thee” (1.3.133-134). She plays the victim to her husband’s jealousy while Othello plays the victim to his ancient Iago. Desdemona gets included in Iago’s villainous plot to destroy Othello. Iago accuses Desdemona of cheating on her husband with Cassio, Othello’s lieutenant. Othello suffocates Desdemona after being convinced of her disloyalty. Her death is the result of Othello’s absolute trust being placed in his soldiers instead of his wife.

                Desdemona is the only character that remains pure throughout the entire play. Even on her deathbed she stayed loyal to her husband. Desdemona effected change in Othello without knowing it. By endorsing for Cassio to remain Othello’s lieutenant, she helped in convincing her husband that they were having an inappropriate relationship. She says “there’s fall’n between him and my lord/an unkind breach, but you shall make all well”, Othello responded, “Are you sure of that?” (4.1.246-248). Desdemona is closely associated with Cassio and Emilia, Iago’s wife who looked after her, during their time in Cyprus. Desdemona is the most vulnerable character in the play and she is taken advantage of by Iago when he convinces Othello of her infidelity. With Iago’s help, she becomes the main reason for Othello’s suspicion.