In Othello, one of the most famous plays of William Shakespeare, Desdemona is the daughter of the senator Brabantio. She is that fair lady who preferred the qualities of a man to his mere appearance. That’s why she liked to hear Othello tell the stories of his adventures, of his recollections, and of battles and sieges. She was charmed by his valiant qualities, though he was black and a Moor, unlike those suitors who had the Venetian complexion and handsome features. She was so moved to pity for the Moor on hearing the stories of his suffering that she fell in love with that brave soldier; and therefore, she did not hesitate to marry him secretly in spite of her knowledge that she was deceiving her father who gave her liberty. Desdemona was so true to her love for Othello that she could not hesitate to support Othello amidst the senators. Even she had made it clear that she had the duty to care for her husband just as her mother had done for her husband. Such a noble lady was suspected by that man for whom she nourished her love in the true sense of the term. She liked Cassio, but it does not mean that she replaced Othello; rather it means that she was simply fond of the wonderful relaxation of the spirit of Cassio. She was so innocent that she gave the handkerchief which was given by the Moor as a token of love to Emilia, to Iago’s simple wife. It was that loss of handkerchief that became more significant than her devotion to Othello. When she heard her husband telling about her warm relationship with Cassio, she could not understand how she could convince her husband who was more acquainted with the warfare than human natures. Thus, she became the innocent victim of Othello’s suspicion and jealousy; and she was killed by her own husband mercilessly. Desdemona is indeed a tragic character for which every reader cannot help feel pity.
Also read: Why did Othello kill himself?
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