Relate Antonio's naturally melancholy disposition which is emphasized in the opening scene to his stoic acceptance of misfortune when be has to forfeit his bond?
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As the play, "The Merchant of Venice" opens in Venice, Antonio is seen tensed over something. He is joked to be 'in love' by Salerio and Salanio yet he ignores. He is worried for his ships gone for trade but does not share his concern with anyone.
When Bassanio arrives, he listens to his plea and does not mention about the burden he bore, despite being best of friends. He does not have enough finance to lend Bassanio, but he asks him to get a loan on his credit. Knowing that his ships might bring misfortune, Antonio still signs the bond with Shylock.
Similarly, when he wrote to Bassanio in Belmont, he does not mention about his grievance on his misfortune but only mentions his will to see his best friend before he offers himself to the Jew to sliver off a pound of flesh. He only wishes to see his dear friend, Bassanio
Both scenes show that Antonio neither fears financial loss nor death. He only cares for human relations. He respects his relationships more than money and trade.
When Bassanio arrives, he listens to his plea and does not mention about the burden he bore, despite being best of friends. He does not have enough finance to lend Bassanio, but he asks him to get a loan on his credit. Knowing that his ships might bring misfortune, Antonio still signs the bond with Shylock.
Similarly, when he wrote to Bassanio in Belmont, he does not mention about his grievance on his misfortune but only mentions his will to see his best friend before he offers himself to the Jew to sliver off a pound of flesh. He only wishes to see his dear friend, Bassanio
Both scenes show that Antonio neither fears financial loss nor death. He only cares for human relations. He respects his relationships more than money and trade.
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