Exploring the characterisation of Desdemona in ‘Othello’

English

In 'Othello', pupils learn about the conventions of a tragic hero, which allows them to judge whether the protagonist is more a victim of his own hamartia or rather of external pressures and a racist society. In 'Macbeth: A Tragic  Hero', pupils evaluate whether Macbeth's downfall is caused by his own hubris or whether Lady Macbeth and wider society can be blamed. 

In 'The Language of Protest', pupils take inspiration from protest poetry and speeches, to write an opinion article. In 'Othello', pupils use their argumentative writing skills to compose letters in defense of Othello and to write speeches campaigning for racial equality. 

'Othello'

Historic or outdated representations of people that may portray inequality or injustice.

Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

Depiction or discussion of sexual or domestic abuse or violence, including  threats of or the aftermath of.

Depiction or discussion of sexual violence

How does Desdemona defy societal expectations at the beginning of 'Othello'? 

What does Othello accuse Desdemona of in Act 4 Scene 2 of 'Othello'?

It shows how she is resigned to her death

What is the significance of Desdemona's willow song in Act 4 Scene 3 of 'Othello'?

''It was his bidding. Therefore, good Emilia: Give me my nightly wearing, and adieu: We must not now displease him.'' How does Desdemona come across in this quote from Act 4 Scene 3 of 'Othello'?

conform to Jacobean expectations of women.

By the end of the play 'Othello', Desdemona seems to...

Desdemona's tragic fall at the end of 'Othello' seems firmly tied to...

What is revealed about Desdemona in Act 1 of 'Othello'?

She is respectful but boldly professes loyalty to Othello

She obeys her father to separate from Othello

How does Desdemona act towards her father in Act 1 Scene 3 of 'Othello' when he asks for her obedience?

What thought does Iago plant in Othello's mind about Desdemona in Act 3 of 'Othello'?

He asks for her to be able to tell her side of events

He makes her stay in Venice whilst he goes to Cyprus 

How does Othello show his respect for Desdemona in Act 1 Scene 3 of 'Othello'?

To be obedient to their father and husband

What was *not* an expectation of Jacobean women?

Which expectation of Jacobean women does Desdemona defy at the beginning of 'Othello'?

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

Depiction or discussion of sexual violence

Adult supervision required

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Exploring the characterisation of Desdemona in ‘Othello’

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.