Desdemona
Desdemona
Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 2012
Book Brief
Beta64
Play • Fiction
2012
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Desdemona, Toni Morrison reimagines Shakespeare's Othello from Desdemona's perspective, exploring themes of race, gender, and power. The narrative extends beyond Desdemona's death, allowing her to voice experiences and confrontations with key figures in her life. Through lyrical prose, Morrison crafts a dialogue about cultural intersections and the complexities of human relationships.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Emotional
Dark
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
1,156 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Desdemona by Toni Morrison is hailed for its lyrical prose and fresh take on Shakespeare's character. Critics appreciate Morrison's ability to give voice to the silenced, especially through rich dialogue and evocative imagery. However, some find its unconventional structure challenging. Overall, it's praised for reinvigorating a classic with contemporary depth and insight.
Who Should Read Desdemona?
Readers who enjoy Desdemona by Toni Morrison are typically drawn to lyrical and evocative reimaginings of classic literature with themes of race, gender, and identity. Fans of Othello and those who appreciate narrative depth similar to Morrison’s Beloved or Jean Rhys’s Wide Sargasso Sea will find it compelling.
1,156 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
64
Play • Fiction
2012
Adult
18+ years
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