Just as quick as the wind changes the sea, a man’s word can change another man’s direction just as rapidly. This fits quite well with the way Michael Cassio is portrayed throughout Shakespeare’s tragic play, Othello. Throughout the story, Cassio is shaped and explained by three things: his military service, his orderly personality, and his charisma with women. As people and things begin to manipulate Michael, things get a little complicated and threaten Michael’s position as Othello’s lieutenant. However, when he acts as he was taught in the military, everything turns out in his favor. Early on in the play, Michael is described as a trustworthy and educated soldier, earning Othello’s trust in him to be his lieutenant, or second in command.
