The handkerchief also takes on another meaning as it becomes as act metaphor for Othello’s flickering doubt while Desdemona’s life hangs in the balance and its symbolism of Desdemona’s fidelity. Whenever the handkerchief is either missing in action or suddenly appears Desdemona’s life is pushed closer to edge. After Othello learns that the handkerchief is missing he begins to act abnormally brash, distant and agitated. Later when the handkerchief reappears in Cassio’s possession he is thrown into a manic rage and is beyond all reasoning with at this point. He vows to kill both Cassio and Desdemona; his closest friend and beloved wife; when he states that “I would have him nine years-a-killing … [and] ay, let her rot and perish and be damned tonight, for she shall not live”(4.1.197-201). The night of Desdemona’s death Othello asks her for the handkerchief one more time all the while firmly believing that she truly gave the love token to Cassio. Ignoring her rebukes Othello smothers her to death.
