Bassianus is a character in William Shakespeare's play, Titus Andronicus. He is the younger brother of Saturninus, the newly crowned emperor of Rome. Bassianus plays a significant role in the play as he becomes involved in a love triangle that leads to tragic consequences.
At the beginning of the play, Bassianus is portrayed as a noble and honorable character. He is deeply in love with Lavinia, the daughter of Titus Andronicus, and wishes to marry her. Despite the fact that Saturninus also desires Lavinia as his wife, Bassianus is determined to fight for his love.
When Saturninus is chosen as the new emperor, he tries to claim Lavinia as his own. However, Bassianus stands up to his brother and refuses to let him have her. This act of defiance sparks a conflict between the two brothers, as they both vie for Lavinia's hand in marriage.
During a hunting expedition, Bassianus and Lavinia attempt to elope together. They are discovered by Titus Andronicus, who is outraged by their actions. Titus, blinded by his anger, kills his own son, Mutius, for trying to stop him from pursuing Bassianus and Lavinia.
However, Bassianus manages to escape with Lavinia and they seek refuge in the forest. It is in the forest that they are eventually captured by Aaron the Moor, a villainous character in the play. Aaron takes them captive and is responsible for the brutal mutilation of Lavinia, which leaves her unable to speak or defend herself.
Despite his absence for a significant portion of the play, Bassianus's love for Lavinia and his desire to protect her is a driving force behind the actions of the other characters. His abduction of Lavinia sets off a chain of events that leads to the tragic climax of the play.
In conclusion, Bassianus is a pivotal character in Titus Andronicus. His unwavering love for Lavinia and his defiance of his brother Saturninus contribute to the dramatic tension and tragic events that unfold throughout the play.