Letter: Yes, Mr Portillo, we're cynical - but only about politicians

WHEN Michael Portillo cites Shakespeare's Ulysses as a spokesman for hierarchy and respect for one's betters, I wonder if he is aware that later in Troilus and Cressida this same Ulysses is seen rigging an election and cynically manipulating the hierarchical structure of command for a short-term political purpose? Being a man of no morals but of sharp awareness, Ulysses also has some pertinent remarks to offer on the combined effects of arrogance and ignorance in eminent men.

Alec Yearling

Glasgow