Emilia’s Perspective on Betrayal in Relationships in Shakespeare’s Othello

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Emilia’s Perspective on Betrayal in Relationships in Shakespeare’s Othello

In Othello, Act IV, scene ii and iii, Emilia, Iago’s wife, reveals her opinion about relationships to the reader as she attempts to comfort Desdemona. She indefinitely believes that many men, as well as women, are frequently guilty of deception and betrayal of their partner. By this part of the play, Othello’s suspicions of Desdemona’s unfaithfulness have greatly increased, and he begins to accuse her of cheating on him. When Desdemona persistently denies his accusations, Othello becomes enraged. He sarcastically asks for her pardon and claims that he took her to be the “cunning whore of Venice” (Act IV, scene ii, line 88). Desdemona is heartbroken by her husband’s mockery and seeks Emilia’s kind words.

Emilia insists that female innocence and chastity is overrated when Desdemona scolds herself for her unworthiness of Othello. Emilia subtly suggests that Desdemona should leave Othello and seek happiness elsewhere. Emilia states in Act IV, scene iii, lines 83-85, “...’tis a wrong in your own world, and ...

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