The Merchant of Venice Blog 1

The relationship between Antonio and Bassanio is a close friendship. However, Antonio's feelings towards Bassanio are stronger than Bassanio's towards him, to the point where Antonio loves Bassanio. Bassanio has interest in a wealthy woman named Portia who is looking to marry. Bassanio needs money for his voyage so he asks Antonio for a loan. "You know me well, and herein spend but time/ To winnd about my love with circumstance;/ And out of doubt you do me now more wrong/ In making question of my uttermost/ Than if you had made waste of all I have./ Then do but say to me what I should do/ That in your knowledge may by me be done,/ And I am prest unto it" (1.1.160-167). Here Antonio shows his true feelings towards Bassanio. He responses to Bassanio's request by not only agreeing to lend him the money he desire, but also saying that it insults him that Bassanio doubts at all that Antonio would give him the money. So, what Antonio is saying is that he will do anything for Bassanio. This attitude and desire to please Bassanio will later cause Antonio to risk his life in a deal with Shylock so he can pay Bassanio the money he needs. Antonio goes out of his way and puts his life on the line for Bassanio. When someone endangers his/her life, it is for someone they love. This is because they care for their loved one more than they care for their life. They would rather throw their life away in hope of winning over the one they love than watch as the one they love moves on right infront of them. Antonio risks his life in hope of winning over Bassanio.