Shakespearean Politics in the Sri Lankan Context: Julius Caesar and Macbeth in 2015 Presidential Election

Abstract

The objective of this study is to investigate the parallels between Shakespearean politics with regard to Julius Caesar and Macbeth and the political backdrop of the 2015 Presidential Election in Sri Lanka. In order to assert how history repeats regardless of time, place and culture, this study examines the similarities between the events and characters in terms of the themes of betrayal and astrology. Reading modern politics in the light of Shakespeare's plays has been limited to the international literati. Although in the Sri Lankan context people have referred to Shakespearean politics in isolated articles, no research has been conducted with regard to the scope of our study. Our study has conducted a qualitative investigation which is more historical. In analyzing information this study has used both content and textual analysis. In order to obtain more information our study has made references to academically approved published books, websites and newspaper articles. The findings of this study draw parallels between Brutus, Caesar and Cassius, the leading characters of Julius Caesar and the leading political figures of 2015 Presidential Election. In conclusion this study asserts how politics is connected to literature and how the same beliefs, attitudes and characteristics remain unchanged through the centuries.