Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Foil Characters: Emilia and Desdemona

"For if she be not honest, chaste, and true, There's no man happy, the purest of their wives Is foul as slander." - Emilia (IV.ii.17-19)

Since Desdemona and Emilia are best friends 
until the day they die, I thought this picture was appropriate. 
I think Desdemona is the dog and Emilia is the cat. 


Throughout the first 3 acts of Othello Desdemona was outspoken and defended Emilia from Iago's rude remarks. Emilia didn't speak out very much, and when she did she was very timid. The two women were contrasted in that way. However, Emilia began to gain confidence by act IV. I think once Desdemona was in trouble, Emilia knew she had to stick up for her. Emilia was offended by Iago and Othello's allegations of Desdemona's unfaithfulness, so she fought back finally. In the end of act V, Desdemona reiterates her faithfulness to Othello, even if he won't ever believe her. She swears she'd never cheat on him, no matter what the circumstances. Emilia, however, says that she wouldn't mind cheating on Iago. Of course, Iago is much less respectable and loving that Othello. This is another area where the two women contrast in personality.

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