Antonio's Love in the Shadows

         Homosexual marriage is a topic of modern debate, however in the sixteenth century, homosexuality was simply not accepted by any faction of society. In Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice, Antonio struggles with his homosexual feelings for his friend Bassanio. 

         The play begins with Antonio moping around, unsure of why he is feeling so glum. Solarino and Solanio mention reasons about why he may be so depressed. The explanation that seems to make Antonio feel uncomfortable is the idea that he might be in love. He brushes off that idea, but later says that the world is a "stage where every man must play a part,/ And mine a sad one" (1.1.82-3). This shows that Antonio recognizes he has been dealt a difficult lot in life. Although he is wealthy, well liked, and prosperous in Venice, Antonio is not content. Antonio considers his life to be sad, demonstrating that there is something in life he knows he cannot achieve, which is a loving relationship with Bassanio. 

     When Bassanio comes to Antonio looking for a loan, he toys with Antonio's feelings to achieve his goal. Bassanio begins his plea by saying that he has no money, but that he will be forever indebted to Antonio. His words are, "To you, Antonio,/ I owe the most in money and in love" (1.1.137-8). In a time when Antonio thinks he can never be with the one he loves, Bassanio manipulatively tempts him by promising to love him forever if he will lend the money. This awakens Antonio's hope, and thus he replies that "My purse, my person, my extremest means/Lie all unlocked to your occasions" (1.1.145-6). At this point in the play, Antonio has not entered into the life-threatening contract with Shylock, so then why does he mention that his person is unlocked to Bassanio's occasions? Antonio's use of 'person' laces his offer with sexual undertones. Antonio cares for Bassanio romantically, and Bassanio encourages these feelings. 

       Antonio becomes more aggressive with his desire to be with Bassanio as the play progresses. When Antonio realizes that Shylock is greedy for his flesh he says, "Pray God Bassanio come/... then I care not" (3.4.38-9). Antonio is expecting to die, and the last person he wants to see before he perishes is Bassanio. Then he will be at peace in his heart. Bassanio does return, and with twice the amount of the bond. This encourages Antonio's feelings for Bassanio because he considers these gestures signs of loyalty, faithfulness, and love in their relationship. When the good doctor rescues Antonio from Shylock's blade, they request Bassanio's wedding ring as payment. At first Bassanio is reluctant to potentially damage his relationship with Portia, but Antonio insists it is the respectable thing to do: "My Lord Bassanio, let him have the ring./ Let his deservings and my love withal/ Be valued 'gainst your wife's commandment" (4.2.467-9). Antonio is subtly asking Bassanio to choose him over his wife Portia; Antonio's love should be held to a higher respect than Portia's desires. By asking Bassanio to give away his ring, Antonio realizes that it could sever the relationship between Bassanio and Portia, but because Antonio is jealous of their relationship this is something he would enjoy. Antonio has fallen deeply in love with Bassanio and thrives upon that small hope that they may one day be together. "If you love something let it go, if it comes back then it was always yours."