“She loved me for the dangers I had passed, and I loved her that she did pity them.”
Othello – Act 1, Scene 3
Othello explains their romance as built on his stories and Desdemona’s compassion.
“The Moor, howbeit that I endure him not, is of a constant, loving, noble nature.”
Iago – Act 2, Scene 1
Even Iago admits Othello’s faithful and loving character, making his fall more tragic.
“I am bound to thee forever.”
Othello – Act 3, Scene 3
Othello declares absolute loyalty to Iago, tragically misplacing his trust.
“Haply, for I am black and have not those soft parts of conversation that chamberers have, or for I am declined into the vale of years.”
Othello – Act 3, Scene 3
Othello’s insecurity about his race, age and social polish feeds his fear of losing Desdemona’s love.
“She’s gone. I am abused; and my relief must be to loathe her.”
Othello – Act 3, Scene 3
Love flips into hatred as Othello decides rejecting Desdemona is the only way to cope.
“His unkindness may defeat my life but never taint my love.”
Desdemona – Act 4, Scene 2
Desdemona’s loyalty to Othello holds even when his cruelty threatens her life.
“But I do think it is their husbands’ faults if wives do fall.”
Emilia – Act 4, Scene 3
Emilia suggests loyalty in marriage is shared work, not solely the wife’s duty.
“I will speak as liberal as the north.”
Emilia – Act 5, Scene 2
Emilia shows fierce loyalty to truth and to Desdemona as she exposes Iago.
“Then must you speak of one that loved not wisely but too well.”
Othello – Act 5, Scene 2
Othello sums up his tragic flaw as excessive, unwise love.
“So come my soul to bliss, as I speak true.”
Emilia – Act 5, Scene 2
Emilia’s final loyalty is to truth; she stakes her salvation on telling what really happened.