he can to remain romantically sad.ANTONIO:I hold this world but as the world, Gratiano,A stage where every man must play a part,And mine a sad one (I.i.81-83).This quote quite bluntly states how Antonio feels it is his destiny, his dharma, to be depressed.So, if he is not a plot device with legs, what is Antonio?Although his love interests seem non-existent, Antonio seems to be the lover of the story; he is sensitive, doting, and generous (as well as single!) - all common characteristics of Shakespearean romantics. However, Bassanio, a worthier suitor (he seems to have a more positive look-out on life) takes this role. Antonio is not comic relief, since the Gobbos fill that. Any hatred the audience might feel is directed at Shylock, so the only thing Antonio can pull from the viewers is sympathy. It seems Antonio is there to supply the "dramatic relief." One can only take so much levity before it becomes nauseating! The Merchant of Venice is categorized as a comedyperhaps Shakespeare felt he needed to mix up the emotions. And this is trueAntonio's emotions, if examined, seem to be some of the truest of the play, although few investigate the subtext.His amity with Bassanio is a close one, worthy of words like 'love': "BASSANIO: To you, Antonio / I owe the most in money, and in love (I.i.137-138)." This shows fairly obviously how Bassanio is indebted to Antonio not only in borrowed money, but also in love. Antonio concurs with this a few lines later, saying "My purse, my person, my extremest means / Lie all unlocked to your occasions [needs] (I.i.145-146)," reminding his friend that his money, help, love and help are available to him. The phrasing is interesting though. Saying that his offerings are "unlocked" to him implies that to everyone else, they are locked. Perhaps Bassanio alone can pierce through Antonio's fog of heavyheartedness. Most male friends, even those in Shakespeare, don't toss "love" around lightly. While some dismiss ...
