beast with two backs embroided on chest

The handkerchief is an recurring motif within drama tradition. It holds a key function as a token of affection (e.g. Intrigue and Love – Schiller ; Othello – Shakespeare) and becomes a symbol for sexual intercourse. “The beast with two backs” is an allusion refering to the act of making love used by the vicious character Yago who is trying to denunciate Othello. The idea of embroidery is intrinsic in Nathaniel Hawthornes “The Scarlet Letter”, which  deals with the themes of adultry, social conformity and public shame.