The Merchant of Venice: Characters

Key Characters in The Merchant of Venice

1. Shylock
2. Antonio
3. Portia
4. Bassanio
5. Jessica
6. Gratiano
7. Lorenzo

Shylock

Quote: "If you prick us, do we not bleed? If you tickle us, do we not laugh?"

Analysis: Shylock's famous speech highlights his humanity and the shared experiences of all people, regardless of religion or ethnicity. Shakespeare uses Shylock to challenge the audience's prejudices and to critique the inhumane treatment of Jews. This moment reveals the deep sense of injustice Shylock feels, contributing to his desire for revenge.

Quote: "The pound of flesh, which I demand of him, is dearly bought; 'tis mine and I will have it."

Analysis: Shylock's insistence on the pound of flesh symbolises his desire for justice and retribution against the Christian society that has wronged him. It shows the extent of his bitterness and how his pursuit of vengeance blinds him to mercy. Shakespeare portrays Shylock as both a victim and a villain, complicating the audience's perception of him.

Antonio

Quote: "The devil can cite Scripture for his purpose."

Analysis: Antonio's line reflects his deep-seated prejudice against Shylock, viewing him as inherently evil. This quote reveals Antonio's bias and sets the stage for the conflict between Christian mercy and Jewish justice, which is central to the play's themes.

Quote: "I am a tainted wether of the flock, meetest for death."

Analysis: Antonio's acceptance of his fate in the trial scene reveals his melancholic and self-sacrificial nature. He sees himself as expendable, showing a contrast between his willingness to suffer for others and Shylock's rigid demand for justice. This moment highlights the themes of mercy, sacrifice, and the complexity of human nature.

Portia

Quote: "The quality of mercy is not strained, it droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven."

Analysis: Portia's speech in the courtroom emphasises the importance of mercy over strict justice. Shakespeare uses Portia to articulate the Christian virtue of forgiveness, positioning mercy as a divine quality that elevates both the giver and the receiver. This moment is pivotal in resolving the play's central conflict and reflects the moral lesson of mercy triumphing over vengeance.

Quote: "I never did repent for doing good, nor shall not now."

Analysis: Portia's resolve to do what is right, even when it may be difficult, shows her moral strength and integrity. Shakespeare portrays her as a character who values justice tempered with compassion, a balance that ultimately saves Antonio and defeats Shylock.

Bassanio

Quote: "All that glisters is not gold."

Analysis: This line, found in the casket test, reflects the theme of appearance versus reality. Bassanio's ability to choose the correct casket shows his insight and wisdom, demonstrating that true value lies beyond outward appearances. This moment reinforces the play's message about the importance of inner worth over external show.

Quote: "The dearest friend to me, the kindest man."

Analysis: Bassanio's description of Antonio highlights the depth of their friendship and his loyalty. It also underscores the central role of friendship and bonds between men in the play, which often outweigh romantic relationships in importance.

Jessica

Quote: "I am a daughter to his blood, I am not to his manners."

Analysis: Jessica's rejection of Shylock's values shows her desire to break free from her father's influence and the Jewish faith, seeking a new identity with Lorenzo and the Christian community. Shakespeare uses Jessica to explore themes of identity, loyalty, and the struggle between familial duty and personal desire.

Quote: "But love is blind, and lovers cannot see the pretty follies that themselves commit."

Analysis: Jessica's reflection on love's blindness illustrates the theme of love as a force that can lead to both joy and irrationality. Her elopement with Lorenzo symbolises the transformative power of love but also raises questions about loyalty and the consequences of leaving one's heritage behind.

Gratiano

Quote: "Let me play the fool."

Analysis: Gratiano's self-description as a fool reflects his light-hearted and often irreverent nature. Shakespeare uses Gratiano to provide comic relief but also to comment on the absurdity of social conventions and the foolishness of those who take themselves too seriously.

Quote: "I am glad on't; I desire no more delight than to be under sail and gone tonight."

Analysis: Gratiano's eagerness to leave Venice for Belmont reflects the contrast between the two settings in the play—Venice as a place of commerce and conflict, and Belmont as a place of love and harmony. His character embodies the carefree, hedonistic side of life, in contrast to the serious concerns of other characters.

Lorenzo

Quote: "How sweet the moonlight sleeps upon this bank!"

Analysis: Lorenzo's poetic description of the night sky during his conversation with Jessica in Belmont showcases the romantic idealism of their love. Shakespeare uses this moment to contrast the harshness of the world in Venice with the serene beauty of Belmont, emphasising the theme of love as an escape from the troubles of the world.

Quote: "The man that hath no music in himself... is fit for treasons, stratagems, and spoils."

Analysis: Lorenzo's belief that a love of music is essential to a good character reflects the play's theme of harmony. Shakespeare uses Lorenzo to illustrate the idea that beauty, art, and music are integral to the human experience and moral goodness.