The handkerchief is an object of immense emotional value to Othello as it is one of the last vestige of his mother. He presents it to Desdemona to show his love and devotion to her. The white colour and red embroidery on it, represent the chastity of a virgin blood. Therefore as long as she kept itRead more
The handkerchief is an object of immense emotional value to Othello as it is one of the last vestige of his mother. He presents it to Desdemona to show his love and devotion to her.
The white colour and red embroidery on it, represent the chastity of a virgin blood. Therefore as long as she kept it with her, symbolically she remained loyal and chaste, at least in the eyes of Othello.
When Emilia steals it on Iago’s behest and then Iago gives it to a prostitute to claim it as a gift from Cassio, it signifies the ultimate betrayal and humiliation for Othello. This leads his anger and jealousy overboard and he ends up smothering his wife to death.
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Handkerchief in Othello is the most significant object of interest. It belonged to Othello’s mother and he gifts it to Desdemona as an proof of his love and devotion. Iago knows that and asks his wife Emilia to steal it and then plants it on Cassio. Thus, the white handkerchief becomes the proof ofRead more
Handkerchief in Othello is the most significant object of interest. It belonged to Othello’s mother and he gifts it to Desdemona as an proof of his love and devotion.
Iago knows that and asks his wife Emilia to steal it and then plants it on Cassio. Thus, the white handkerchief becomes the proof of Desdemona’s chastity and fidelity.
When Othello learns that she had lost it and believes that she gave it to Cassio who handed it to a prostitute he visited, it breaks Othello’s resolve and trust. It becomes the evidence of Desdemona’s ultimate betrayal.