Desdemona v. Dezzie

It is quite interesting how movies often reflect, however indirectly, changes within society. One major difference between the play Othello and the film "O" that proves this idea is the focus on the inequality of women. There are various encounters with this inequality during the play, such as: Desdemona's lack of voice, criticism of women by Iago, Desdemona's duty to be loyal to her husband, etc. In contrast, the film "O" never implies this inequality, but rather hints at the power that a woman has gained at the time of the film. The scene that emphasizes this takes place in the coaches office and involves Oden, Coach, Des and her father. Des is confronted, although acting by her right to keep her business to her self, barely makes eye contact, refuses to discuss the matter, and continues to do as she pleases. This was so different from the scene in the play when Desdemona dutifully and outspokenly defends her husband, never acknowledging any idea of privacy. Obviously the movie and play are different when it comes to the rights of women, but why is this significant??

This difference in the film and play reflects the fact that the identity of the woman has changed over time. The greatest influence on identity is, without a doubt, society. This impact of society is reflected within the arts; various paintings, plays, novels, and films have revealed the way the identity of a woman has changed over time and how they are seen in society. The reflection that has been created by the arts is very important to understanding and developing history! Othello and "O" are one great comparison that enable the audience to recognize the developed power and status of a woman.