What kind of character is Desdemona?

Desdemona is a lady of spirit and intelligence. For all the claims of military straightforwardness of some other characters, Desdemona is the most direct and honest speaker in the play. Her speeches are not as lengthy as those of the men, but with Desdemona, every word counts.

What does Desdemona represent in the play Othello?

Desdemona was the faithful wife of Othello in Shakespeare’s play. She was kindhearted and wished for all to be well with the male characters, and it is her sympathy towards Cassio which made Iago’s lies more credible. It is her naïve nature that made her an easy target for the antagonist in the play.

How is Desdemona presented?

Desdemona, initially presented as the embodiment of a “tender, fair and happy maid”, ultimately epitomises a Jacobean woman’s struggle for agency in a society which values her virginity above all else.

How does Desdemona’s character change?

In the beginning of the play, Desdemona was a strong woman who defied traditional Venetian beliefs, but as the story goes on, her strength is weakened, and her relationship with her husband diminishes. Her independence slowly shifts over to obedience.

How does Desdemona’s character develop?

Through the course of the play Othello, Desdemona’s character evolves and develops. In the beginning of the play, Desdemona was a strong woman who defied traditional Venetian beliefs, but as the story goes on, her strength is weakened, and her relationship with her husband diminishes.

Why is Desdemona a strong character?

Desdemona is a strong and independent woman. She spoke for her herself, refused to be crushed under the feet of patriarchy. However, her position as a woman made her vulnerable. Though she asserted her individual personality but under the impact of a male dominant society she could not exercise her freedom.

What is Desdemona’s weakness?

Othello’s weakness is towards Desdemona; Rodrigo’s weakness is towards his unconditional loved for Desdemona, while Desdemona’s weakness was her kindness and naivety that clouded her judgment towards Othello and his actions.

How does Desdemona change throughout the play?

Is Desdemona an unrealistic character?

Desdemona has been criticised as a two dimensional character who is simply too good to be true; a paragon of virtue who embodies everything that is pure and true in humanity.

How is Desdemona a feminist?