The Pseudo-Personification In Othello's The Handkerchief

The Handkerchief also goes through an almost pseudo-personification as it takes on a life of its own by acting as a sort of possessed object and rebelling against the audiences expectations by taking over the plot. When interrogating his wife about the missing handkerchief Othello explains its origin as a gift an “Egyptian to my mother give” so she could have the love of Othello’s father but this love would be lost if she ever lost it or gave it away (3.4.66). He also states that the woman who gave it to his mother was a “charmer” who “could almost read the thoughts of people” (3.4.66-69). This quote makes this woman seem like some sort of supernatural being or witch and the handkerchief a product of witchcraft. This is supported when