William Shakespeare
The handkerchief was first mentioned early in the play, and Othello later tells Iago why it is so important. It has a history in his family. Iago had told Othello that he saw Cassio with the handkerchief, and that was proof that Cassio and Desdemona have a relationship.
Iago mentions the handkerchief again at the beginning of Act IV. He tells Othello that if he, Iago, gives his wife something, like a handkerchief, it is hers to give away. Iago is trying to manipulate and anger Othello. Speaking of the handkerchief, Iago says, "Why, then, 'tis hers, my lord, and being hers, she may, I think, bestow't on any man." Othello replies, "She is protectoress of her honor too. May she give that?" (IV.i.12-15). Othello is reiterating the importance of the handkerchief and compares Desdemona's giving it away to giving away her honor. The handkerchief is very important to Othello and if he finds that another man has it, he will be furious.
When Iago brings up the handkerchief again, Othello says, "By Heavan, I would most gladly have forgot it. Thou said'st- oh it comes o'er my memory, as doth the raven o'er the infected house boding to all- he had my handkerchief" (IV.i.19-22). Here the handkerchief is compared to an evil omen. It will bring evil tidings to all (foreshadowing?). Othello is convinced that Cassio has the handkerchief, and therefore believes that Cassio is in a relationship with Desdemona.
Later in the first scene, Bianca storms in and yells about the handkerchief found in Cassio's house. It was Desdemona's. Iago suggests to Othello that Desdemona gave it Cassion, who then gave it to his whore. Othello is so hurt that he wants Desdemona dead
Just like with Othello's parents, the husband will no longer love the wife if she looses the handkerchief.
The prophecy has come true.
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