How The Characters In The Merc :: essays research papers

People&8217s rewards are determined based on their actions. The fact that Shylock is not merciful to Antonio and that he is hateful towards the Christians, has resulted in him losing his possessions. Bassanio not only helps Antonio, but is also wise and being wed to Portia is his reward. Antonio gives money to Bassanio and is willing to die for his friend and his reward is his life. The particular actions and decisions made by Shylock, Antonio and Bassanio causes them to reap the benefits or misfortunes of their behavior.Shylock is one of the more evil characters, who shows no mercy and is robbed of his possessions for these deeds. Shylock is not merciful towards Antonio&8217s situation and he does not care for his life. When Shylock is well-nigh to take a pound of flesh from Antonio, Portia asks for a doctor to help Antonio with his wound. All Shylock can say about this is, &8220I cannot find it &8216tis not in the bond. (IV i 260). He does not care for Antonio&8217s life. Not only does Shylock hate Antonio, but he also hates all Christians. He shows this when he says, &8220I hate him for he is Christian(I iii 39). He is almost basing his whole dislike for Antonio on his religion. Shylock&8217s rigor causes him to be punished. Portia tells him, &8220Thou hast contrived against the very life / Of the defendant and thou hast incurred / The danger formally by me rehearsed(IV i 358). Shylock&8217s cruelty towards Antonio and his prejudice against Christians results in his punishment by the law. Bassanio uses his wisdom to wed Portia and he courageously helps Antonio. His reward is having Portia&8217s hand in marriage. Bassanio is willing to give up his life for Antonio. When he says &8220Good cheer, Antonio What, man, courage yet / The Jew shall have my flesh, blood, bones, and all, / Ere thou shalt lose for me one drop of blood. (IV i 111) He is saying he appreciates Antonio&8217s courage for him, but he also says Shylock will have to take his flesh, blood, bon es and all before he can get at Antonio. Bassanio&8217s love for his wife is shown by his reluctance to give up his wedding ring. When Bassanio says, &8220Good sir, this ring was given me by my wife, / And when she put it on, she made me profane swearing / That I should neither sell nor give nor lose it.