Question

give a brief character sketch of Antonio with special reference to his melancholy in the opening scene​

Answer 1

• Antonio is always ready to help his friend Bassanio.

• Antonio is honest merchant and a business man although he is wealthy merchant which makes him a cautious merchant.

• His melancholy is a contrast to the gaiety of his friends. Antonio's generosity is highlighted by the fact that he lends his credit-standing to Bassanio to go Belmont, in spite of not having any cash at hand .