To what extent is Desdemona responsible for her tragedy?
Othello is a notable literary work by William Shakespeare. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Othello.
Answer
To what extent is Desdemona responsible for her tragedy? (2019)
Desdemona is one of the most innocent and loving heroines in Shakespeare’s (1564-1616) “Othello” (1622). Her tragedy is painful and sad. Though she is a victim of Iago’s plot, her own innocence, bold nature, and mistakes also contribute to her tragic death.
Innocent and Trusting Nature: Desdemona is too innocent to see evil in others. She fully trusts Iago and Othello. Her blind faith makes her weak before the cruel tricks of Iago. Even when Othello doubts her, she says softly,
“My noble Moor is true of mind.”
Her honesty and trust become her danger.
Bold and Defiant Spirit: Desdemona is not a silent woman. She boldly chooses Othello against her father’s wish, saying,
“But here’s my husband.”
This courage shows her strong love, but also her willingness to take a risk. In a society ruled by men, her open defiance of tradition creates trouble. Her boldness leads her into a world of jealousy and misunderstanding.
Too Much Faith in Cassio: Desdemona’s effort to help Cassio becomes a reason for Othello’s doubt. She repeatedly pleads for Cassio’s return, saying,
“Why then, tomorrow night, or Tuesday morning…”
This act, though kind, makes Othello think she loves Cassio. Her goodness thus becomes her greatest mistake.
Passive in Her Suffering: Even when Othello calls her a “strumpet,” she never protests. Her silence and submission increase his anger. She accepts death quietly and says,
“Commend me to my kind lord: O, farewell!”
Her purity brings pity, but her passivity makes her powerless.
In short, Desdemona’s tragedy is not entirely her fault. She is pure, loyal, and loving. Yet her innocence, boldness, and blind faith in love help fate destroy her. She dies a victim of goodness itself.