Desdemona character context + analysis

Question 1

Analyse the quote “i do perceive her a divided duty” A1 S2

Answer 1

Pragmatism
Internal conflict - articulate, sophisticated and cultivated speech - aware of gendered roles in a Jacobean society
Subtly subversive/transgressive daughter
Mirrors Othello in intelligence & articulacy

Question 2

Analyse the quote “the moor my lord” A1 S2

Answer 2

Balanced , logical & measured speech - aligns herself with B’s diction whilst still respecting Othello - reverence in her diction
Asserts her voice - divergent to the paragon of virtue that will “blush” at her own movements depicted by Iago
Traps Othello between two identities ‘the other’ & the romantic hero - the source of his tragedy

Question 3

Analyse the quote “let me go with him” A2 S2

Answer 3

Imperative contrasts “moth of peace” duality in her personality fragility v tough
Atypically demanding - subtype subversive - emboldened by her love
Their love is a crutch for her - able to escape the restrictions of the domestic sphere
Seperation distress = distance is unbearable
Exchanges are equal both parties holding power & stage time
Beneath courtly gentle exterior she is a passionate creature - embeds a suggestion of sensuality