Importance Of Minor Characters In Othello

Even though it may not be obvious, minor characters are vital in story writing because they further the plot by working through main characters. This is the case of the character Bianca in Shakespeare’s Othello. Bianca is significant in Othello because she is used by Iago to convince Othello that his wife is unfaithful, moves the plot along by being in possession of Desdemona’s handkerchief, and reflects the theme of jealousy displayed by Othello’s character. Bianca’s role in Othello seems insignificant at first as she appears to be no more than Cassio’s prostitute on the island of Cyprus, however, Iago uses Bianca through his conversation with Cassio about their relationship to anger Othello. Iago tells Othello that he will get Cassio to talk about Desdemona while Othello hides. However, Iago actually jokes with Cassio about his prostitute Bianca because he knows that Cassio will laugh, which will infuriate Othello thinking Cassio is laughing about Desdemona. Iago jokes to Cassio saying, “I never knew a woman love man so,” and, “She gives out that you shall marry her. Do you intend it?” (IV.i.109, 114-115). Iago brings up Bianca in order to get Cassio to react in a joking manner for Othello to observe, and his plan is successful.

Jealousy is one other major tool in Iago’s plot to ruin Othello’s marriage. Bianca confronts Cassio saying, “This is some minx’s token, and I must take out the work? There! Give it your hobby-horse,” acting jealous thinking Cassio was in love with another woman (IV.i.144-146). Being provided with evidence of unfaithfulness, jealousy interferes and brings harm to both Bianca and Othello’s relationships. Bianca’s jealousy and assumptions are similar to Othello’s which further highlights the impacts of jealousy in the