Othello by William Shakespeare

1. Othello by William Shakespeare How Militarism Affected the Characters and the Plot of the Story By Peter Canteros

2. What is Militarism? • Militarism is the belief or desire of a government or people that a country should maintain a strong military capability and be prepared to use it aggressively to defend or promote national interests • Militarism is also in association with fascism Reference: Wikipedia

3. Why is Militarism in Othello? • Shakespeare, living from 1564 until 1616, saw his share of national conflict around the world • The setting of Othello is during times of colonialism and conquest – specifically the Turks • Between 1572 and 1668, around twenty-eight bloody uprisings took place in Cyprus • Shakespeare's tragedies traditionally have militaristic backgrounds such as Romeo and Juliet

4. The Beginning of Militarism in Othello • The story’s protagonist is Othello but Iago creates the reason for Othello’s actions • Othello holds a significant title in the army • Iago is aiming to rise in power from a mere ensign to lieutenant

5. The Growth of Militarism Throughout the Play • Iago’s quest for lieutenancy • Iago is unsatisfied with Othello’s actions • European ships are headed towards Cyprus to engage in battle • The approaching war brings all the characters to the island of Cyprus including General Othello and Lieutenant Cassio

6. Cyprus

7. Militarism Cont’d • With all the characters on the island of Cyprus, Iago stirs up trouble and causes Othello to make some rash decisions • Othello does not give Iago the lieutenancy until both vow to kill Desdemona and Cassio • After receiving lieutenancy from Othello, Iago furthers his revenge against Othello • Every character suffers from Iago’s plans