Desdemona Quotes/ Character analysis Flashcards
(5 cards)
“I do perceive here a divided duty”- Desdemona (1.3.)
Desdemona says this when she is torn between her father and her new husband. At this time, a woman was expected to show total obedience to the male authority in her life, but Desdemona is now transitioning from loyalty to her father to loyalty to her husband. The quote reveals that Desdemona is very aware of, and eager to honor social expectations of showing loyalty to her husband. This loyalty will soon endanger her however as she does not challenge Othello’s authority at all even when her life is in danger
“Do not doubt, Cassio, But I will have my lord and you again as friendly as you are”- Desdemona (3.3)
Here, Desdemona reassures Cassio that she will bring reconciliation between him and Othello. The quote shows at this point Desdemona feels confident in her relationship and sure that she can persuade her husband to share her perspective, this quote is an example of dramatic irony as Desdemona thinks she’s being kind and helpful whereas in reality she is completely unaware that she has fallen into the trap Iago has set for her.
” I think the sun is where he was born
Drew all such rumors from him”- Desdemona (3.4)
Desdemona insists to Emilia that Othello is not a jealous man, she makes a playful reference to Othello’s origin, stating that the sun in his native land made him impervious to jealousy and therefore he is an exception to the typical venetian tendency to be suspicious of women’s behavior. This quote depicts Desdemona’s naïve and trusting nature, since she is blind to how capable her husband is of being jealous
” His unkindness may defeat my life, but never taint my love”- Desdemona (4.2)
Desdemona is saying this line to Emilia and Iago and she is going to remain faithful and loving to Othello even if he insists on accusing her of adultery. Desdemona swears she will love him even if his mistreatment of her is responsible for her death, but we don’t know how seriously she takes this possibility. It seems most likely that she still clings onto the belief of being able to persuade Othello of her innocence, and does not yet understand how much danger she is in.
” Beshrew me if I would do such a wrong
for the whole word”- Desdemona (4.3)
Desdemona explains to Emilia that she would never consider being unfaithful, no matter the circumstance. This quote shows that Desdemona is so virtuous she cant even understand why a woman would betray her husband. Desdemona’s innocence is a major key in her undoing as she never stops and thinks about how her behavior would look from an outside perspective, instead she makes the assumption that everyone around her is already aware of her innocence and purity.
