2) Why did Bassanio and Antonio approach
Shylock? Was Shylock willing to give what
they asked? Why?
Answers
Explanation:
Bassanio needs money to woo Portia as his bride. Bassanio knows Antonio is a rich merchant and is very attached to him, so he asks him for a loan.
Unfortunately, all of Antonio's assets are tied up in three merchant ships that are out at sea, bringing in cargos that Antonio can sell at a handsome profit. But right now, he is illiquid or cash poor. He simply doesn't have the money at the moment to help his friend.
Therefore, he goes to Shylock, the moneylender, for a loan. Jews were the moneylenders in those days, as Christians were not allowed to charge interest on loans. Antonio knows Shylock resents him for insulting him (Shylock) for being a Jew, but Antonio needs money. When Shylock demands a pound of flesh if the repayment is not made on time, Antonio agrees. He reasons that there is very little chance that all three of his ships will be lost at sea. Therefore, he assumes he will have the cash to pay back the loan when the time comes.