Blessay in Merchant of Venice

William Shakespeare’s Merchant of Venice is full of many characters exploring love, friendship, money and revenge. Two characters that are obviously very different are Antonio and Shylock, but these characters have some similarities as well. Many of their similarities lie beneath but with some digging are apparent. Many of their differences are found on the surface. First, is their religion, Shylock being a Jew and of lower status in Elizabethan society is considered inferior by Antonio. This is apparent when of Antonio speaks of Shylock’s heart and how hard it is. He says, “…as seek to softer that—than which what’s harder?—his Jewish heart.”(pg. 26) Antonio is personally offended by Shylocks choice of religion but is especially against Shylock’s career as a creditor. Antonio is smug about his money and loans it out without interest hurting Shylock. Shylock expresses his views on Antonio saying, “How like a fawning publican he looks! I hate him for he is a Christian, but more for that he lends out money gratis and brings down the rate of usance here with us in Venice.” (pg.5) The hate between these two runs deep but similarities are equally important. First off, both men are business people, Antonio as an investor and Shylock a creditor. They are also, deeply religious, even though their religions are a reason of conflict. Another similarity is that both have given much to a person that they love. Shylock’s daughter runs away with most of his money, still Shylock finds a way to love his daughter. Also, at the end he gives half of all he has to her. Similarly, Antonio uses his credit against his better judgment, to make his friend Bassiano happy in love. Antonio’s life is spared at the last minute but he was willing to give his life for Bassanio. Although the conflict between Antonio and Shylock are what make The Merchant of Venice a great story and one worth telling, Their similarities are also important to the story and the harmony between the two of them.

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