antonio

Question 1

in sooth i know not why i am so sad

Answer 1

could be due to Bassanio’s love for Portia, suggests Antonio is in love with Bassanio

Suggests emotional repression — classic Renaissance masculinity: feels a lot, shows nothing.

Context: Men weren’t “supposed” to show emotion — this is subversive.

contrast between the straightforwardness of “I know not why” and the deep complexity of his emotions underscores internal conflict. He doesn’t understand why he feels sad - emotional ambiguity.

Iambic pentameter

Question 2

I am a tainted wether of the flock

Answer 2

Biblical imagery — compares himself to a castrated sheep, useless and ready to die. Ties to Christian sacrifice – is he a Christ figure?

“Tainted” implies he’s flawed or impure — links to his guilt, self-hatred, and possibly internalised feelings.

Question 3

“The pound of flesh, which I demand of him, / Is dearly bought; ‘tis mine and I will have it.”

Answer 3

While this is Shylock speaking, Antonio’s willingness to suffer makes him the “pound of flesh” in this metaphor.

Question 4

“I would not change this bond

Answer 4

• declarative sentence - Antonio’s statement is undeniably devotional. He values his bond with Bassanio more than anything — even his own life. (gaybo)
  This can be interpreted as romantic attachment: his willingness to sacrifice everything for Bassanio reflects a deep emotional connection that goes beyond mere friendship or loyalty.

Question 5

antonios love for bassanio

Answer 5

punishable - burn to stake - wont admit it
evidence - melancholy links to love in shakespearean times
my purse my person my extremest means lie unlocked to your occasion bassanio - Antonio lists three escalating sacrifices: his money, his body/self, and his resources — showing the depth of his devotion.’ - sexual
antonio has already lent money to bassanio and is a smart business man but still lends money to bassanio