Othello Acts I-III

In third scene of act three of Othello by William Shakespeare, the handkerchief is introduced. The handkerchief is the love of Othello and Desdemona. He first gave it to her as a keepsake for their love: "This was her first remembrance from the Moor." (III.iii.301). Emilia gives the handkerchief to Iago and it will become his tool for evidence. The love that Othello and Desdemona have for each other is symbolized by that handkerchief. When she uses it on him, she is giving him her love. Othello believes that her love is two small and drops it, showing that he has no more love for her. Now that Iago has it, he holds the power of their love in his hand (symbolically). By using it to continue to corrupt Othello, Iago will obtain Othello's position. Iago's maniacal plan seems to be unstoppable. Maybe he is the greatest villain ever created.