Secondary Characters in Othello
Emilia: The Voice of Truth
Emilia, Iago's wife and Desdemona's attendant, serves as a crucial bridge between the play's main characters and represents a voice of reason and truth. Her character development is particularly significant as she transforms from a submissive wife to a bold truth-teller.
ExampleIn Act 4, Scene 3, Emilia delivers a powerful feminist monologue that challenges the patriarchal views of the time:
"But I do think it is their husbands' faults If wives do fall... Let husbands know Their wives have sense like them"Note
Emilia's death scene is particularly powerful as she exposes Iago's villainy, making her the catalyst for the truth finally coming to light.
Brabantio: The Protective Father
Desdemona's father represents the traditional Venetian society and its prejudices. His reaction to his daughter's marriage to Othello sets up the racial tensions that pervade the play.
ExampleHis famous line to Othello serves as an early warning:
"Look to her, Moor, if thou hast eyes to see: She has deceived her father, and may thee"
Roderigo: The Foolish Pawn
Roderigo serves multiple dramatic functions:
- He acts as Iago's primary dupe
- His unrequited love for Desdemona drives several plot points
- His presence allows Iago to reveal his true nature through their conversations
Pay attention to Roderigo's scenes with Iago - they often reveal Iago's manipulation tactics and true intentions.
