“But ships are but boars, sailors but men; there be land rats, and water rats, water thieves and land thieves – I mean pirates – and then there is the peril of waters, winds and rocks” (I.iii.18-21)
During Shylock’s initial conversation with Bassanio to negotiate the loan, his speech about Antonio’s credibility ominously foreshadows Antonio’s maritime ventures. While insuring to Bassanio that Antonio is “sufficient” to guarantee the loan, Shylock also speaks of the dangers his ships could potentially face. Even after mentioning these perils, Shylock insists that Antonio is sufficient. Shylock’s insistence, while mentioning the maritime hazards, suggests that his conscience is hypothesizing what could happen if Antonio was sealed to a bond with Shylock that he could not repay. Throughout their conversation, Shylock is becoming cognizant of the revenge that could be fulfilled if Antonio were to seal a bond with Shylock that he could not repay; this recognition drives him into making a bond with these Christians.
Mary--Very nice, subtle reading of lines by Shylock. Great job! Exactly what you should be doing here. Love it.
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