ons could waste Othello’s arms suggests that female sexuality (represented by the lunar menstrual cycle) can undermine Othello’s masculinity (represented by the arms that carry his weapons). Othello begins describing his relationship with Desdemona that her aura creates a continued sense of helplessness for Othello. In the beginning of the play, Othello begins to realize Desdemona’s threat towards him and his behavior by stating that he feels weakened by her presence.In addition to his fear of domination by a women, Othello fears domination by his own feelings towards her. As stated by Martha Ronk "The consequent state of chaos, jealousy and sexual fantasy into which Othello plunges, literally undoes him as he falls to the ground in a trance." Othello’s jealousy causes the decadence of his self-control and his conduct. He becomes enthrall with Desdemona’s behavior which is slowly causing his self-destruction with his feelings being control by Desdemona. Furthermore, Othello’s assurances to the senate that this will not happen "the young affects/In me defunct" sounds as if he is trying to convince himself more than the lords. Othello fears that the awakening of his sexual desires for Desdemona may draw potency from his martial prowess. Also importantly, Othello says about his marriage "If it were now to die,/’Twere now to be most happy." Othello acknowledges that the contamination of his masculine power by female sexuality is preventative to his happiness. Othello’s character shortcomings reveals that he is helpless among the presence of Desdemona.Othello must confront both aspects of Desdemona’s sexuality, first, through the consummation of their marriage, and with the possibility that she is having an affair. In realizing the situation, Othello cries out:What sense had I of her stol’n hours of lust? Farewell the plumed troop, and the big wars That make ambition virt...
