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Othello's Handkerchief: Symbol of Sexuality and Virginity - Online Term Papers

Othello's Handkerchief: Symbol of Sexuality and Virginity

�Othello�s Handkerchief� Symbol of Sexuality and Virginity

In Othello by William Shakespeare, the Moore Othello is married to Desdemona. His wedding gift to her is a white square handkerchief embroidered with strawberries. Desdemona cherishes this small token of love that leads to a tragic ending in Shakespeare�s play. How could Shakespeare�s use of such a small trivial gift be able to hold such enormous value? Othello and Othello�s Handkerchief:�The Recognizance and pledge of Love� by Lynda E. Boose explain this strong symbolic association of sexuality and virginity in this small piece of linen and how it could lead to such a tragedy.
In Othello Shakespeare uses the handkerchief as ...

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Emilia�s husband, Iago, knows the strong symbolic value of fidelity Othello places on this napkin. Iago, in his villainous ploy, uses this napkin as �Ocular proof� (3.3.361) for Othello to believe his lies of Desdemona�s infidelity with Cassio. �Trifles light as air are to the jealous confirmations strong as proofs of holy writ� (3.3.323-25). Here Shakespeare uses reference to the Bible in how strong a symbolic value this handkerchief holds. Even Iago believes that his possession of this napkin will be the only evidence he will need. Othello�s symbolic hold on this handkerchief is so strong he not only believes Iago�s lies but becomes possessed in wanting to kill his beloved wife. �Ay, let her rot and perish and be damned tonight. / for she shall not live! No, my heart is turned to stone� (4.1.176-78). Othello not only plans to kill Desdemona, but also makes plans with Iago to kill Cassio. Othello�s connection of virginity and sexuality to the handkerchief is apparent. Othello, ...

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Othello's Handkerchief: Symbol of Sexuality and Virginity. (2011, March 30). Retrieved November 30, 2024, from http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Othellos-Handkerchief-Symbol-of-Sexuality-Virginity/97164

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"Othello's Handkerchief: Symbol of Sexuality and Virginity." Essayworld.com. March 30, 2011. Accessed November 30, 2024. http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Othellos-Handkerchief-Symbol-of-Sexuality-Virginity/97164.

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PAPER DETAILS

Added: 3/30/2011 06:32:59 AM
Submitted By: Chelayne
Category: Shakespeare
Type: Premium Paper
Words: 1211
Pages: 5

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