In Shakespeare’s Othello a very unique and intriguing society is shown. A relationship between a man and a woman is described in detail, illustrating their inner emotions and passions. Desdemona is without a doubt an intelligent and understanding woman, who is determined to accomplish anything she sets up to do, conquering any obstacles that might be on the way.
At the beginning where an opinion is being formed about Desdemona, it is unclear because she seems unreasonable by disobeying her father but this view changes gradually judging by her actions. She realizes that for her to follow her passion and love, she must abandon everything—her life in the familiar place and her father. The fact that she decides to go through with this proves that she has given it lots of thought, weighing what her life would be like in both instances and then after much contemplation she chooses the outcome closest to her heart. The ability of Desdemona to make this hard decision shows strength of character. There are many things that a person in her position could fear: an unknown life with a man in a different setting that is not familiar, the anger of her father and his disrespect, even the risk of her abandonment. Any reasonable person in her place would consider all the possibilities and outcomes, so it is obvious that she must have done this and very effectively. She was able to analyze her feelings, look deep inside to understand what she really wants and what she will lose one way or the other. In reality this situation is very intense, as Desdemona is feeling love towards Othello and the wants to be with him, but at the same time she does not want to disappoint and sadden her father. She must have told herself that even if she leaves with Othello, it will not, in any way, decrease or affect her feelings towards her father. As she is a free human being she understands that it is her choice that matters in the end and she trusts herself in her decision. Her trust and understanding of own emotions is a trait of an intelligent person, who looks at the possible outcomes and the consequences and then makes the best decision based on mental contemplation. When she expresses her feelings to her father-Brabantio, in order to convince him of her love, she is able to make him understand. The way she talks to her father shows that she is a smart woman who knows what words, tone and phrases to use. Desdemona also knows herself and can express thoughts in a comprehensible manner. She tells Brabantio that she is thankful and has great respect for him and everything he has done for her. The way Desdemona expresses herself makes it evident that she knows what she wants to say very precisely and speaks eloquently. When Desdemona does leave with Othello, she fully devotes herself to the husband and their love. Othello has to go to war and she without any hesitation is ready to go with him. Such a selfless act, knowing the hardships and the atmosphere of a battle and the surrounding area, makes her strong character evident. Her determination is great and no matter what, she stays true to her own feelings, believing that her heart will show her the right path. Another example of Desdemona’s intelligence is when she agrees to help Cassio to get his job back. The mere fact that she decides to do that, help another person, is a sign of great kindness and respect for fellow human being. She also shows great skill when convincing Othello to take Cassio back. Not every person has the ability to influence other people and so, much intellect and comprehension of the issue at hand is required.
Up to this point Desdemona showed herself to be a strong woman, who understands her surroundings and the situation she might find herself in. She always found the best way to deal with the issue and did it without any back thoughts, which proves clarity of the mind and respect for the self. Unfortunately towards the end of the play the picture changes. All the gossip and provocations that are happening behind her back are unknown to her. Desdemona cannot understand why she is being treated so harshly by Othello. In her heart she knows that she is being true but there are no words or actions that could explain how she feels. Desdemona makes several attempts to convince Othello but unable to do that. This mental depression and fear get a hold of her and shake the usual determination and clear thinking. A person in a nervous state cannot think straight because the emotional pressure is so great, it blocks and confuses any directed thinking, making the person a victim of their own sorrow and sadness. There could have been other possible outcomes if she acted differently in the circumstances. For example if she had explained to Othello that she has lost his handkerchief before her husband allowed jealousy to get the better of him, the outcome of this conflict might be completely different. She was so panicked by the situation that fear of loss and disbelief blinded her reasoning. There was a chance, a possibility for her to find ways to explain herself, illustrate her actions and of people around her. Until the very last moment Desdemona was hoping that her love and innocence will save her. A person in a situation where the way out is impossible to see becomes shock stricken, seizing up the mental processes. She begins talking about dying and makes the last effort to understand the situation and the world around her. Her true innocence is seen when she asks if it is possible at all to cheat on a husband. But even in this hopeless time she still shows traces of wise thinking. She realizes what has happened. Her husband is so focused on his jealousy and disbelief that he will never trust her. This is one of the reasons she talks about death, sadly understanding that it will possibly end like this. Until the very last moment she stays true to herself and her principles. Her last words were to prove her innocence before Othello and another act of selflessness is when she forgives him in her heart and takes the blame onto herself. Only a self respecting and moral person would do such a thing.
Desdemona is a representation of goodness and love in the play. Throughout the story she stays true to her beliefs and moral code. The time when she became confused during the agony of suffering does not change the fact of who she is. This is once again proven through her last words. This play shows how often people are misunderstood and misinterpreted but one thing will always stay the same—respect for self and others.