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Year 9 - English

Exploring the characterisation of Desdemona in 'Othello'

'Othello'

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils explore Shakespeare's 'Othello'. They start by learning about Aristotelian tragedy and how Shakespeare adapted it. They read long extracts from across the play, and consider the presentation of Othello, Iago and Desdemona. Finally, they look at key themes, such as jealousy.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explore how Desdemona is characterised, in relation to the role of Jacobean women.

Key Notes

  • In Act 1, Desdemona is brave and adventurous, proclaiming her love for Othello and following him to the battleground.
  • Othello greets her as "my fair warrior" in Act 2, highlighting her strength.
  • Many argue that Desdemona is a submissive character by the end of the play.
  • Desdemona's name in Greek means 'ill-fated' or 'unfortunate', suggesting that she is a tragic victim.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Misogynistic: Strongly prejudiced against women.
  • Submissive: Ready to conform to the authority or will of others.
  • Chaste: To be chaste can mean not having any sexual desire or intentions.
  • Resigned: Having accepted something unpleasant that one cannot do anything about.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Desdemona conforms to Jacobean stereotypes throughout the play.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain this English learning goal in two key points.

In Act 1, Desdemona is brave and adventurous, proclaiming her love for Othello and following him to the battleground. Othello greets her as "my fair warrior" in Act 2, highlighting her strength.

2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'Misogynistic'

Strongly prejudiced against women.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: Desdemona conforms to Jacobean stereotypes throughout the play. Correction: Desdemona's character changes throughout the play - it is only at the end that she seems to conform.

More Lessons In This Unit

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