Holcombe
Brian Holcombe
Mrs. Beverly Simpson
English 1102
9 December 2003
Three Plays—One Role
Oftentimes, masters of the pen and paper write a work of literature with a specific intention as to how the characters will be developed and how they will interact with one another. This remains true in Shakespeare’s Othello, Henrik Isben’s A Doll House, and Susan Glaspell’s Trifles. Except, in these three plays, there is one defining characteristic shines through all the asides and soliloquies. That characteristic is that the women in these three plays all maintain specific roles that are not too inherently different from each other. Their abilities are underestimated by their fellow characters and, in turn, the reader also. The defining elements of their characters are not fully displayed like those of their male counterparts. Instead, the women must reveal their true selves through a series of acts and conversations. Through analyzing each significant female character in the three plays, it will become apparent as to what sort of role they play in their respective play.
In The Tragedy of Othello, the Moor of Venice, Shakespeare creates the lead female character of Desdemona as versatile and multi-faceted. However versatile she appears, though, she maintains two opposite roles—one of a self-effacing, faithful wife and the other a bold and independent woman. The daughter of the Venetian senator Brabanzio, Desdemona is introduced into the play as having been secretly married to Othello before the story begins. The fact that the marriage occurred before the beginning of the play makes one question the validity and degree of Desdemona’s love for Othello. But with her first appearance in the story line, the reader deduces from her behavior and character that she is determined and self-possessed, capable of overcoming any challenge that may face her. With the progression of the story, the reader learns that she is much more than just a one-dimensional character which seemed the case when she first appears in the plot. The reader sees that she is a character who is full of passion and intensity and has a great and undying love for her husband and marriage. As a result of this passion, she will stop at nothing to defend herself, her reputation, and above all, her marriage to Othello. This fervor becomes apparent in her conversation with Iago in which she boldly defends herself and her marriage against his intrusive comments about her and her marriage. Her determination boldly shines through with dignity when she must face the incomprehensible jealousy of her husband Othello. Desdemona proves to be a truly unique character as she must reveal her own determination and validity as a female to her fellow characters and the reader alike.
