English, asked by Riyaorsana, 1 year ago

compare and contrast Antonio's situation in signing the agreement with Shylock, with Portia's situation of being held bound to her father's will.

Answers

Answered by Wafabhatt
151
This question is taken from William Shakespeare's play, "The Merchant of Venice". This is the story full of love, resentment and revenge. 

In the play, Antonio has to sign a bond with Shylock while Shylock lended money to Bassanio on the credit of Antonio. The bond says that if Antonio is unable to pay the debt in time, Shylock would cut off a pound of flesh near the chest of Antonio. 

Whereas, the will left by Portia's father is that she has to marry anyone who is successful in finding her picture from any of the three caskets. 

Both, Portia and Antonio are bound to follow in the love of their dear ones. Antonio is bound to do so for the love of his dear friend, Bassanio. While Portia is obligated to do so because of his deceased father. 

Both rely on luck, as no one knows how it may end up. They are unsure what the bond and the will would bring to them. Antonio fails to pay the debt in time and is trialed in the Venetian courts. However, Portia has to encounter suitors from across the world whom she does not want to marry. 

Yet, at the end Portia marries the person she loves, Bassanio as he is the only one who is successful in finding her picture. Whereas, Shylock fails to sliver off a pound of flesh as his demand is unjust and Portia proves as a good lawyer. 

As a whole, despite being in different scenarios Portia and Antonio experience similar emotions. 
Similar questions