Bassanio`s request of Antonio Essay Example

Bassanio`s request of Antonio Paper We can interpret much about Portia from what Bassanio says. He brings in mention of Roman history when he says, her name is Portia, nothing undervalued To Catos daughter, Brutus Portia. This is very revealing as to the character of Portia. The reason I say this is because the Portia who Bassanio is describing at this point was a lady who was well known for her wisdom, learning, courage and her love for her husband. These are characteristics that we read about later on in the play about Portia which are true to Bassanios description. Another interesting link to the past is the link that Bassanio makes to Greek mythology when he mentions the fact that many Jasons come in quest of her. This shows the linkage to the quest for the Golden Fleece by Jason to give to Zeus. I interpreted this image as Bassanio describing Portia as the golden fleece, an object of unimaginable value and something (someone) who has gained the admiration of men far and wide who have come to try and claim her. The character of Bassanio is revealed in many ways throughout this extract. We first read of him when he is describing to us the story of his school-days, the childhood proof of his story and how he like a wilful youth owes Antonio a great deal of money. This shows us the childlike character of Bassanio as much of what he says in linked to childhood and past experiences in his childhood. This depicted to me how he has not really grown up and how he still has the mindset that he had as a child. We will write a custom essay sample on Bassanio`s request of Antonio specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Bassanio`s request of Antonio specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Bassanio`s request of Antonio specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Another link to this childlike character of his is the fact that he doesnt directly tell Antonio his request, but like a child goes off on a tangent before getting to the point. He does this by telling Antonio the story of the arrows when he was a child and how when I had lost one shaft, I shot his fellow of the self-same flight with more advised watch and I oft found both. This, to me, showed how Bassanio doesnt want to go directly to the main point and request but like a child, creates an elaborate story in order to cover up the seriousness of what he wants and the situation. This could also be seen as Bassanio trying to diverge from his true purpose of asking the question because of the fact that he may be uncertain or even embarrassed of asking Antonio of such a thing. He could be trying to break the news to Antonio more gently in order to try and protect his friendship with him, as he may be uncertain of Antonios response. Another characteristic of Bassanio that I read about was the fact that he is a man who takes chances and risks with OTHER peoples assets, in this case Antonios money. I say this because he is under the impression that had I but the means to stand among the ranks of all the other men who were after Portias hand in marriage, he would questionless be fortunate. For a man who has nothing, he is extremely confident that if he had the money of others, he could do better than anyone else. This showed me how he is dependant on Antonio for more than just his friendship, but also his financial assistance and also his support. It also can be seen as his way of subtly asking Antonio for the financial assistance without actually referring to the borrowing of money. I also read about how Bassanio is a person who takes risks and is willing to make the same mistake twice in order to accomplish something. I say this because he tells us of the story of the arrow and how he would fire a second one in the same manner in order to determine where the first one went. This can be looked at as both a flaw and a virtue in his character. I say this because, it could mean that he has learnt what he did wrong and knows how to fix it, or it could mean that he is just taking his chances and gambling on success to come his way. We also read and interpret his love of money. Not only does he use Antonio for his money but he is using Antonios money in order to get at Portia who is the main monetary prize. Antonio is a stepping-stone towards the main ocean of wealth. This is portrayed when the first thing that he mentions is that Portia is a lady richly left this showed how his main attraction to Portia was her wealth and not her character and personality like it should be. I feel Shakespeare then wanted to cause some form of confusion within us as the reader with the immediate next phrase that Bassanio says OF wondrous virtue personally, I felt that this would create a clash and confusion of opinions created of Bassanio. At first we may think that he likes Portia for nothing more than her money however we then read about how he makes reference to her virtues and good qualities. As reading it the first time it causes us to be uncertain of whether or not he has true feelings towards Portia or not.