Emilia (Othello)
Emilia is a character in the tragedy Othello by William Shakespeare. She is married to Othello's ensign Iago, and is a maidservant to Othello's wife, Desdemona.
Role in ''Othello''
Emilia first appears on stage in 2.1 when she arrives in Cyprus with Iago, Desdemona, and Roderigo. Iago resolves that Emilia should "move for Cassio to her mistress" at the end of 2.3.In 3.1, Cassio asks Emilia to allow him to privately confer with Desdemona, which she does. She finds Desdemona's handkerchief in 3.1 and gives it to Iago, who swears her to secrecy. Despite her involvement in the handkerchief's disappearance, she comforts Desdemona when Othello becomes enraged after discovering that it is missing in 3.4.
In 4.2 when questioned by Othello, she firmly states Desdemona's innocence. In 4.3 she later discusses with Desdemona their differing views on marriage and fidelity. Emilia states she would commit adultery if it gained her husband the world and also asserts that husbands are to blame, arguing for equality and mutual respect in marriage. She briefly appears in 5.1 where she verbally abuses Bianca after hearing of her supposed involvement in Cassio's attack. In 5.2 she informs Othello of Roderigo's death and the attempted murder of Cassio. She calls for help and Iago, Montano and Gratiano appear. Emilia having heard from Othello that Iago told him of Desdemona "cheating" on him with Cassio, accuses him of gross dishonesty leading to an unjust murder. When she hears about the handkerchief, she reveals her role and Iago threatens and then kills her at the first opportunity. She then dies singing Desdemona's song and speaking of her purity and love for Othello, lying alongside her mistress.