What kind of relationship exists between Antonio and Bassanio?
Antonio and Bassanio have a very strong relationship, they are best friends who love one another (in a non-homosexual way). Bassanio, who likes a very wealthy woman Portian, asks for money from Antonio so he can compete with the rest of her suitors. Antonio always lets Bassanio borrow money but he doesn't have any more to spare for him but says that if he can find a decent loan then he will take care of it. This is where Shylock comes in. Shylock is a Jewish lender who agrees to give Antonio a loan, the twist is that if Antonio can not pay this loan off then he will owe him 1 pound of flesh...His heart.
Antonio - Content, in fait. I'll seal to such a bond, And say there is much kindness in the Jew. (pg. 36 lines 164-165)
Bassanio - You shall not seal such a bond for me! I'll rather dwell in my necessity.
(pg. 36 lines 166-167)
Even though Antonio is threatened with his life if he takes the bond, he decides to take it to help out his friend. This shows how close these two men are, Antonio is risking his life to help Bassanio.
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