Exploring the characterisation of Desdemona in ‘Othello’
I can explore how Desdemona is characterised, in relation to the role of Jacobean women.
Exploring the characterisation of Desdemona in ‘Othello’
I can explore how Desdemona is characterised, in relation to the role of Jacobean women.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- In Act 1, Desdemona is brave and adventurous, proclaiming her love for Othello and following him to the battleground.
- Othello greets her as "my fair warrior" in Act 2, highlighting her strength.
- Many argue that Desdemona is a submissive character by the end of the play.
- Desdemona's name in Greek means 'ill-fated' or 'unfortunate', suggesting that she is a tragic victim.
Keywords
Misogynistic - Strongly prejudiced against women.
Submissive - Ready to conform to the authority or will of others.
Chaste - To be chaste can mean not having any sexual desire or intentions.
Resigned - Having accepted something unpleasant that one cannot do anything about.
Common misconception
Desdemona conforms to Jacobean stereotypes throughout the play.
Desdemona's character changes throughout the play - it is only at the end that she seems to conform.
Equipment
You will need a copy of Shakespeare's 'Othello' for this lesson.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
- Depiction or discussion of sexual violence
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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