Othello - Love and Relationships

Brabantio: If she in chains of magic were not bound

Only when Brabantio discovers that Desdemona and Othello have eloped does his relationship with Othello alter. Brabantio and Othello's professional relationship is seemingly untainted by racism, however, the Elizabethan views regarding inter-race marriage and social hierarchy become apparent, as Brabantio does not want a 'Moor' marrying his daughter. This also acts as evidence of the possessive nature of men during this time, as the woman was often given no choice as to whom her marital partner was. In addition, the association that Shakespeare makes between a 'Moor' and witchcraft is significant as it evokes negative connotations between the two, forcing the audience to question their affiliation and created empathy with Othello's character.

Roderigo: I confess it is my shame to be so fond, but it is not in my virtue to amend it.

Rodrigo seems aware of the fact that he should not necessarily be in love with Desdemona, and can do nothing to change this, however, Roderigo's words reveal his weak natured character, which ultimately leads to his increased susceptibility of Iago's manipulation. Shakespeare uses Roderigo to show the power of love, as Rodrigo, not unlike Othello, suggested he would rather die than be without love. This is used as a warning to the audience of the blind following of love and rash decision making, and how it can be implement the lives of both your own, and others around you.

Brabantio: O foul thief, where hast thou stowed my daughter?

Shakespeare's choice of 'thief' and 'my' demonstrates the sense of possession and ownership that an Elizabethan man had. The constant objectification of Desdemona throughout Othello highlights the social hierarchy present at the time. Additionally, Brabantio accuses Othello of an unlawful fact. Shakespeare conveys to the audience the Elizabethan social belief that women were not able to make their own choices or have an opinion. Their only purpose was to provide a male heir.

Brabantio: Damned as thou art, thou hast enchanted her! For I'll refer me to all things of sense, If she in chains of magic were not bound, Whether a maid so tender, fair, and happy, So opposite to marriage that she shunned The wealthy curled darlings of our nation.

The lexicon of spiritual language suggests that Othello himself is involved in sorcery. This would have upset the contemporary audience who deeply feared the supernatural. Furthermore the correlation between Othello's race and his supposed supernatural abilities highlights the society's desire to hate those of a different racial background in order to maintain their own superiority. Brabantio exposes the inherent forgiveness within families. Although it was Desdemona's choice, he chooses to blame Othello rather than her. This is done both to maintain a family's reputation and also to preserve the 'purity' a white family had.