Question

Dwell on antonio and shylock enmity and
explore the ways in which Shakespeare portrays the two characters to show their differences and
similarities.

Answer 1

Answer:

Shylock and Antonio do not particularly like and respect each other, and much of it is due to Shylock’s beliefs and assumptions. He reveals his hatred to Antonio in an aside in the play:

I hate him for he is a Christian,

But more for that in low simplicity

He lends out money gratis and brings down

The rate of usance here with us in Venice.

If I can catch him once upon the hip,

I will feed fat the ancient grudge

Explanation:

bear him.

He hates our sacred nation, and he rails,

Even there where merchants most do congregate,

on me, my bargains and my well-won thrift,

which he calls interest. Cursed be my tribe,

if I forgive him! (I.iii.37–47)

So, Christianity is the first reason for Shylock’s hatred toward Antonio. The second reason is that he lends out money with no profit and hurts Shylock’s business. There is a third reason, as well.

Learn more about approaching Shakespeare-the scene begins.