Write about the friendship between antonio and bassanio with regard to the bond and trust
Answers
The male relationships seem more important in Venice where the language is of trade and where patriarchy is more dominant. This balance is redressed in Belmont where love triumphs. It seems to me that Antonio ends up alone because he does not conform to the economy of Belmont or Venice. He seems to expect love in return for lending and hovers somewhere between the two realms. The relationship between the two men appears to be one of unrequited or unequal love. This may be the reason for Antonio's mysterious sadness at the opening of the play. It is easy to see that Antonio is in love with Bassanio. At every possible point he intervenes in his relationship with Portia, even a letter manages to separate them for a short while. His willingness to give up his body for his debts is reflective of a sexual or at least sensual exchange. Ultimately, though, Bassanio takes from Antonio and gives nothing in return and this inequality of exchange seems to be the biggest factor in their relationship.