What is the Importance of Handkerchief in Othello by Shakespeare?
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Lucifer
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.