Desdemona: character analysis

Last updated: 15/11/2023
Contributor: Teachit Author
Desdemona: character analysis
Main Subject
Key stage
Category
English
Resource type
Complete lesson
Worksheet
Author
William Shakespeare
Title
Othello

Students explore Desdemona's character through a series of quotations about her character in a range of key scenes from William Shakespeare's play Othello. 

This classroom resource includes a grid for students to complete, exploring the portrayal of Desdemona and analysing the effect on the audience and other characters of each quotation. There are also discussion and writing activities to consolidate students' understanding of context and her presentation by Shakespeare. 

Example tasks from the classroom resource: 

Talking points: Discuss the following points with your partner or group.

Prepare to feedback to the class:

  1. What are your views of Desdemona’s character? Do you agree with any of the other characters from the play?
  2. Is Desdemona’s treatment in the play fair in your opinion? Why/why not? Use evidence to support your ideas.
  3. How would social media today judge Desdemona?
  4. Is there anyone in the public eye that is regarded in a similar way to Desdemona? How do you respond to this?

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