Dynamic Emilia - Othello Acts 4 and 5

William Shakespeare’s play Othello is home to the development of many dynamic characters. However, one character in particular stands out when referencing great changes in personality and character. Emilia, Iago’s wife, was a quiet, reserved character for the majority of the play. Her quietness was brought forth by her husband’s treatment of her, as he called her names and disgraced her. In hopes to gain his favor, Emilia tried to be the perfect wife, a silent and simple woman, but it was not enough for Iago. However, in Acts 4 and 5 of Othello, Emilia finally has her moment to retire from being a push over and to stand up for herself and those she cares about instead. After Othello’s murder of Desdemona, Emilia is shocked that he would do such a thing. When Othello’s reasoning is explained, however, Emilia finally proves that her character was more than skin deep. Regardless of any possible consequences, Emilia’s incrimination of Iago is what finally reveals to the other characters exactly who was behind all of the madness in the play. She states, “Oh mistress, villainy hath made mocks with love! My husband say that she was false!” (Shakespeare,1454). This outburst from Emilia proves to Othello that Iago had been telling him lies about his wife, now directing the blame towards Iago. In the end, even though Iago killed her for it, Emilia died with more dignity than ever because of her final confession and realization.