Within both Othello and King Lear, the question of love for one's father is posed. Both Desdemona and Cordelia claim to love their father, but also reserve half that love for their husbands. There nature, through honest answers, are contrasted to the natures of those around them. Iago pledges loyalty and love for Othello to his face, yet secretly plots his master's demise. Cordelia's sisters give long, flowery speeches of the love they hold for their father, yet, in actuality, are hoping only for a greater inheritance, and a quicker transfer of power. Those who claim to give 100% of their love, are not giving half, or even 1%. Their true natures reveal the only person they truly love are themselves.
It is an interesting lesson Shakespeare is giving. He was a man known for his powerful verse and words, his love sonnets are still used today! And yet, his overall message is meant to convey how little meaning words have when the heart does not follow the tongue.
Also interesting to note, the commendable characters within both plays are women. In a time when women were seen to follow the path of Eve, leading men towards temptation and salvation, Cordelia and Desdemona provide an account of the honesty within women. And it is the failure of men to trust which leads to the tragic downfall within both plays. Shakespeare is offering a salvation through these women, not just for the characters of his plays, but for the readers, the audience, and the generations to follow.
Mallory Braus
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