Ay, let her rot, and perish, and be damned to-night; for she shall not live: no, my heart is turned to stone; I strike it, and it hurts my hand. O, the world hath not a sweeter creature: she might lie by an emperor’s side and command him tasks.
– William Shakespeare
Othello, Act 4, Scene 1. Othello is losing control and his mind is filled with hatred and thoughts of violence at the idea of Desdemona cheating with Cassio. Using a metaphor he compares his heart to stone, since he has to harden it to be able to kill his wife. However, he is deeply conflicted about what he has to do. Despite his violent intent, he is a reluctant murderer. He still loves Desdemona, describing her as so sweet she could be the wife of an emperor who would obey her commands.