“But Hear thee, Gratiano: Thou art too wild, too rude, and bold of voice… And in such eyes as ours appears not faults; But where thou art not known, why there they show Something too liberal. Pray thee take… some cold drops of modesty Thy skipping spirit, lest through thy wild behaviour I be misconstered in the place I go to, And lose my hopes” (II.ii.151-160)
Bassanio’s response to Gratiano’s request to accompany him to Belmont reveals his shallow character. Bassanio’s shallow character is exemplified when it is prevalent that his reasons for editing Gratiano’s behavior is not to forestall Gratiano from embarrassment, but to ensure that he himself is not “misconserted” by Portia. Bassanio also reveals that he is very much a two sided character: presenting one Bassanio to Venice and one Bassanio to Belmont. The Venice Bassanio is in debt and enjoys Gratiano’s outlandish character; however, the Belmont Bassanio is a wealthy Venetian who doesn’t want to be associated with Gratiano’s rudeness. Bassanio not only jeopardizes Antonio’s life, but installs stipulations on his friend’s behavior in order to impress Portia and secure her fortunes.
Mary--I'm liking this Bassanio fellow less and less the more we talk about him--between our discussion in class (would a real friend allow someone to risk a "pound of flesh?") and your post here, he no longer seems quite the carefree lover. ;-) Nice job at reading into a seemingly offhand set of lines.
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