Keep up your bright swords, for the dew will rust them.
Good signior, you shall more command with years
Than with your weapons.
– William Shakespeare
Othello, Act 1, Scene 2. Othello cuts a dignified and authoritative figure when faced with the threat of violence by an armed Brabantio and his men. The experienced general manages to lower the temperature with calming words. He tactfully reminds the Senator that he is old, adding that his years command more respect than his weapons. It is ironic that a military general, skilled at warfare and fighting, is the one to bring peace to a potentially violent situation.