Obtainment of Antonio's Flesh Grants Shylock an Emotional Triumph That Cannot be Attained By Money

“If every ducat in six thousand ducats Were in six parts, and every part a ducat, I would not draw them; I would have my bond” (IV.i.85-87).

Not only is Shylock’s desire for revenge fueling his refusal for money as compensation instead of Antonio’s flesh, but he also is driven to “have [his] bond” by his fear of losing something as tangible as money.  Yes, the pound of flesh is tangible; however, it represents the hatred Shylock has for Antonio. Shylock’s obtainment of that pound of flesh would symbolize Shylock’s ultimate triumph over Antonio and the Christians in general.  While money is clearly of some value to Shylock as he is a usurer, it is also a tangible object that can be taken away.  His fear of losing money stems from the Christians’ trickery that enables Jessica to escape and steal his jewels.  This fear supports the notion that money will not grant Shylock triumph over the Christians as it is something that be taken away.  A pound of Antonio’s flesh and the emotional victory that comes with it cannot be taken away. While revenge is the overriding reason for Shylock’s determination to “have [his] bond,” the fear of losing money and not perpetually triumphing over Antonio underscores his desire to “have [his] bond.”