V-I-Sem-I. Division A. Roll No.-2. Mobile no.- 9137578934.

CONFLICT BETWEEN ANTONIO AND SHYLOCK

The conflict between Antonio and Shylock arises partly from religion and partly from economic
causes. Antonio wanted to borrow money from Shylock, a moneylender. Shylock is Jewish, and
Antonio is Christian, and he had a history of being anti-semitic to Shylock. Shylock believes he
has handled this abuse with patience, but he has festered a deep hatred for Antonio since he
cursed Shylock and even spat on him because Shylock lends out money that belongs to him.
However, Antonio now needs money from Shylock, which causes their conflict to become even
more bitter. At the trial, when the duke asks says that he thinks Shylock will eventually have
mercy on Antonio, he clearly declines and says he never intends to do that, he hates him with a
passion. When Bassanio offers six thousand ducats instead of three he still declines, his only
desire in ending Antonio’s life for all the humiliation and abuse he has put Shylock through.
Later, when Portia arrives disguised as Balthazar and tries to explain Shylock about the quality
of mercy, he still remains adamant on his decision and asks for the fulfilment of the contract no
matter what. Eventually, Portia manages to find a loophole in his contract stating that he can
have Antonio’s pound of flesh but he can’t spill a single drop of blood and that it has to be an
exact pound, if it is more or less even by the tiniest fraction, Shylock shall die and all his
property will be confiscated. She also states he cannot even take the original three thousand
ducats in place of the pound of flesh, he even drops the case, but Portia reminds him of the
penalty that non venetian citizens face when they threaten the life of a Venetian. In such a case,
half of Shylock’s property would go to the state, while the other half would go to Antonio. Portia
orders Shylock to beg for the duke’s mercy. The duke declares that he will show mercy and
spares Shylock’s life and demands only a fine, rather than half of the Shylock’s estate. Shylock
claims that they may as well take his life, as he is worthless without his estate. Antonio offers to
return his share of Shylock’s estate, on one condition, Shylock convert to Christianity and
bequeath all his goods to Jessica (his daughter) and Lorenzo upon his death. Shylock consents
and departs, saying simply, “I am not well”. Even though the duke spares his life, he now has lost
the ability to practice his profession as well as religion. Shylock has lost his servant, his
daughter, his fortune, and a treasured ring given to him by his dead wife. As stated earlier, his
conflict with Antonio was rooted in religion and economic causes, but Shylock was not the only
victim her, he had clearly stated “I hate him for he is a Christian”. Both Antonio and Shylock
were extremely malicious towards each other, Antonio abused Shylock in front of everyone,
mocked his religion and profession and Shylock was so disturbed by the abuse he wanted to end
Antonio’s life. There wasn’t just a singular victim in their case which is why Shylock’s entire life
getting ruined by the end while Antonio continues to live a long happy life has always troubled
some readers. Everyone has a different and polarizing perspective on their conflict and all the
sides need to be heard and understood.
Thank you.
Aastha Kadam.