Blog #3

Othello by William Shakespeare

Thus far in act five, two murders and one injury have already occurred. Through the manipulation of Roderigo, Iago has managed to both injure Cassio and get Roderigo killed. Yet, Iago appears as innocent as ever. This is the first time though that Iago has personally inflicted physical pain himself, rather than through the use of others. Although no one knows it but the readers, Iago is the one who struck Cassio's leg, causing him his severe wound. Also in this act, readers see a change within Emilia. Once seen as a quiet and obedient woman, Emilia transforms into a loud and outspoken character who will be stepped on no more. Through these drastic changes, readers see Emilia becoming a dynamic character. During a heated conversation with Othello, Emilia states," Do thy worst. This deed of thine is no more worthy heaven than thou wast worthy her,"(V, ii, 170) and Thou hast not half that power to do me harm as I have to be hurt. O gull! O dolt! As ignorant as dirt! Thou hast done a deed—I care not for thy sword, I’ll make thee known,"(V, ii, 175). These bold remarks would seem entirely out character for Emilia just a few acts ago, but now she stands and fights for justice. She knows what Othello has done and what Iago has done. It appears as if Emilia is the only person in the play who realizes the truth.