Emilia KQ Flashcards
(9 cards)
“You shall not write my praise”
Act 2 scene 1
A bold refusal to let Iago control her image. Emilia resists being defined by men — a rare, early assertion of female agency in love and reputation.
“They are all but stomachs, and we all but food; they eat us hungerly, and when they are full, They belch us.”
Act 3 scene 4
In this moment, Emilia cynically discusses how men often consume women’s affection and devotion only to discard them once they’ve satisfied their desires. She contrasts her own husband (Iago) with Cassio, suggesting a reflection on how men can take advantage of women without regard for their feelings or loyalty.
“They are not ever jealous for the cause, But jealous for they are jealous”
Act 3 scene 4
“I durst, my lord, to wager she is honest, Lay down my soul at stake.”
Act 4 scene 2
“But I do think it is their husbands faults if wives do fall”
Act 4 scene 3
Who would not make her husband a cuckold to make him a monarch?”
Act 4 Scene 3-
A morally grey line — Emilia would betray for power if the stakes were high. Love and loyalty are not sacred, but strategic and conditional in her eyes.
“If he says so, may his pernicious soul Rot half a grain a day! He lies to the heart.”
Act 5 scene 1
“I will not charm my Tounge, I am bound to speak”
Act 5 Scene 1-
She refuses to stay silent. A powerful stand for truth, love, and justice, even though it costs her life.
O, the more angel she, and you the blacker devil!”
Emilia contrasts Desdemona’s innocence with Othello’s brutality. Racial and moral imagery heightens the tragedy of corrupted love.
