Some critics argue that the women are in the play are represented by Shakespeare as proto-feminist, but this is proven not true when the women feel the need to rationalize all their decisions. This is shown when Desdemona raises her voice to back to Othello. It was stated that “women who raised their voices in public were considered to draw attention to themselves and make themselves sexually available” (Corporaal 99). Although Desdemona did fight back and speak her mind, Othello still punishes her by slapping her across the face. “Othello’s behaviour [is] “typical,” that is, as normal husbandly, manly behaviour” (Vanita 342), as no one knows any different. Emilia, who is less naïve than Desdemona, also knows her role in her relationship. When Emilia reveals Iago’s plan of revenge on Othello she says “’Tis proper I obey him, but not now” (5.2.203).
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She has her own ideals and views and is not as afraid to express them. Since she went against the traditional role of women in society, she feels the need to rationalize her reason for doing so. In other words, she feels guilty for going against her husband. It is clear to the audience what her motives are, but she still explains to the other characters that Iago had lied and deceived many friends for his own
She has her own ideals and views and is not as afraid to express them. Since she went against the traditional role of women in society, she feels the need to rationalize her reason for doing so. In other words, she feels guilty for going against her husband. It is clear to the audience what her motives are, but she still explains to the other characters that Iago had lied and deceived many friends for his own