Othello Group
Question:
Review the words Othello uses to describe the sleeping Desdemona, such as "white" and "rose."
How do these contrast with what he intends to do?
Answers:
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kwoo1213 Teacher
College - FreshmanPosted by kwoo1213 on Monday April 28, 2008 at 6:14 PMOthello uses these words because they represent purity and beauty; however, Othello is killing her because he believes that she has not been faithful to him when in fact she has. The reader can tell Othello is torn about killing Desdemona, but feels he has no choice because of her rumored infidelity. To Othello, she has lost her purity and is now "stained" because of her supposed affair with Cassio.
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gbeatty Teacher
College - FreshmanPosted by gbeatty on Monday April 28, 2008 at 6:17 PMThere is definitely a contrast between these words, which represent purity and beauty, and with the stained condition he thinks now defines his wife. However, if you're asking about how they relate to his intention, one protects that which is clean and white. One values roses, and their beauty. Above all, one does not kill things that are so rare and lovely. Therefore, the words used are deeply ironic. They show the pain in his soul.