A symbol gives something or someone a more in depth meaning in a book, play, or any piece of work. Symbols can and most often have a hidden meaning in a body of work. It is something the author uses to give meaning to an object or thing while the reader has to really think about what it could mean. In Othello, the most important symbol used is a measly handkerchief. This handkerchief has different meanings and importance for each of the characters in the play.
Othello, an important character in this play, started out with the handkerchief in his possession. He received it from his mother and she was given it by an Egyptian charmer. “Twould make her amiable and subdue my father Entirely to her love, but if she lost it Or made gift of it, my father’s eye Should hold her loathed and his spirits should hunt After new fancies;” (Act III, Scene IV, Page 56). This quote in Othello was said by Othello to Desdemona. It explains the significance that the handkerchief has to Othello. He thinks the handkerchief has some sort of magical powers that keeps Desdemona loyal and faithful to him for as long as she has it. The handkerchief
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He is the puppet master behind the scenes that causes everything that happens. Lago uses the handkerchief as the most important piece in his evil plan. He knows what the handkerchief means and symbolizes to Othello and Desdemona, so he uses that to destroy their relationship. “Look to your wife: observe her well with Cassio; Wear your eye thus, not jealous nor secure:” (Act III, Scene III, Page 46). This quote is Lago telling Othello to watch Desdemona with Cassio because he thinks she is cheating on Othello. Although, lago knows that he placed the handkerchief in Cassio’s possession to set him and Desdemona up to where it looks like they are having an affair. He then convinces Othello that Desdemona is cheating on him. Lago’s master plan would not have worked without the