Emilia (Othello) nature in sharp contrast to Desdemona, who seems almost unable to believe that any woman could contemplate such an act. Throughout the play, Iago uses Emilia's close friendship with Desdemona to gain access to her and, in particular, asks her to steal Desdemona's handkerchief, which he subsequently drops in Cassio's house and later uses this as evidence to convince Othello that Cassio has been with Desdemona. Emilia does not agree to steal the handkerchief for Iago. Iago snatches it from her and all she can do is ask about what he'll do with it (III.iii.310–320). Iago is the one who
Emilia (Othello) is presumed his wife is present since Cinthio makes clear earlier in the tale that Desdemona often spent part of the day with the ensign's wife. However, his wife takes no part in the mischief. The next appearance of the ensign's wife in the tale occurs when Desdemona discusses her husband's troubling behaviour with her. Here, Cinthio makes clear the ensign's wife is aware of her husband's plotting, but remains silent in fear of him. She advises Desdemona not to give the Moor any cause for suspicion and to assure him of her love and loyalty. The last mention of