Symbols in Othello

Symbols play a crucial role in Shakespeare's "Othello," adding depth and layers of meaning to the narrative. Let's dive into some of the most significant symbols and explore how they contribute to the themes and character development in the play.

The Handkerchief

The handkerchief is perhaps the most prominent and powerful symbol in "Othello." This small piece of fabric carries immense weight in the plot and serves multiple symbolic purposes.

Significance and Meanings:

1. Love and Fidelity: Othello explains that the handkerchief was given to his mother by an Egyptian sorceress, imbuing it with magical properties. It represents the love between Othello and Desdemona, and its loss symbolizes the breakdown of their relationship.

"That handkerchief Did an Egyptian to my mother give; She was a charmer, and could almost read The thoughts of people" (Act 3, Scene 4)

1. Othello's Heritage: The exotic origin of the handkerchief reflects Othello's own background as a Moor and outsider in Venetian society.
2. Jealousy and Deception: As Iago manipulates the handkerchief's whereabouts, it becomes a symbol of the jealousy consuming Othello and the deception at play.

The Black Ram and White Ewe

Iago uses animal imagery to describe Othello and Desdemona's relationship, particularly in Act 1, Scene 1:

"Even now, now, very now, an old black ram Is tupping your white ewe."

This crude symbolism represents:

1. Racial Prejudice: The contrast between black and white highlights the racial tensions in the play.
2. Bestial Nature: By comparing Othello to a ram, Iago attempts to portray him as animalistic and savage.
3. Purity vs. Corruption: The white ewe (Desdemona) symbolizes innocence being tainted by the black ram (Othello).