A New War

In William Shakespeare's Othello, Othello is a great military hero. Othello even claims new military victories during the play. However, military engagements are not the only wars taking place. Throughout the play, Othello battles many things and people including his hatred for Cassio, his trust and distrust of Desdemona, and Iago's deceit (unknowingly). All of these issues prompt Othello to seek "victory" by killing Cassio and Desdemona. "How shall I murder her Iago?"(IV.i.159). Here, we see Othello consult Iago, his lieutenant, on how to best carry out his plan, just as he would do in actual military battle. Moreover, in Act V, we see Othello abandon sympathy for his wife just before killing her. "It is the cause, it is the cause, my soul"(V.i.1). Similarly, before a soldier enters battle, he must abandon his feelings and convictions in order to complete what he knows must be done. Othello eventually claims the "victory" sought after with Desdemona's death. Ironically, however, this one victory of his does not bring him good fortune, but rather a lead to his downfall.