A question about 'Desdemona'
Alright, so I've checked multiple sources for the meaning, all saying the same thing - ill-fated. No problem there.The problem is, my English literature prof explained it to the class as meaning 'gift of God', and then proceeded to explain her interpretation of this in the context of the play 'Othello', to give weight to the point she was trying to make about the relationship between Othello and Desdemona. I'm concerned that this may be important in any upcoming assignments or tests.My question (after a long-winded ramble) is, how do you suppose she obtained this meaning?
vote up1vote down

Replies

The meaning of the name Desdemona *is* relevant in the context of the play because of her relationship with Othello, but not because it means 'gift of God.'
Although it's unintentional, Desdemona's behaviour leads to her husband's downfall and her own subsequent murder. Therefore, the 'ill-fated' meaning is important to the plot of the play, but the idea that it could mean 'gift of God' wouldn't be relevant.
Hope that made sense!
vote up1vote down
'fraid your teach, being just human, erred :)
Even the Anagram Oracle agrees:
Desdemona = O, me! Sad end!
vote up1vote down
Oh, great, now I'll be laughing all day : )
vote up1vote down
The Ancient Greek words are doron ("gift") and theos ("god"), which are found in Theodora and Dorothea (for example). I can't see any way they could have been twisted to make Desdemona, though! Sorry I can't be of more help.
vote up1vote down