“the Merchant of Venice Cannot Be Considered a Comedy as There Is Too Much Tragedy of Human Life.” to What Extent Do You Agree or Disagree with This Statement?

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Over the years the extent at which the Merchant of Venice has been classified as a comedy has changed, as Shakespeare was writing at a time of anti-Semitism and discrimination amongst various groups of people, especially the Jewish nation. However, now reading the play from a twenty first century perspective some people may believe that the comic aspects of this play outweigh the tragedy for various reasons. An element that standardizes the quality of a comedy is illogicality or fancy, and as seen through the play it is clear that there are many illogical events that take place, for example the equivocal relationship between Antonio and Bassanio that leads to further complications. Many questions are raised about their feelings towards each other as the two male protagonists, perhaps share a love for each other that root deeper than friendship. Antonio quotes; “Well; tell me now what lady is the same To whom you swore a secret pilgrimage, That you to-day promis'd to tell me of?” Here we see Bassanio's love life is the first thing Antonio brings up with Bassanio when they're alone together in the play. Perhaps he could be perceived as a man who likes to gossip, raising comic aspects out of this quote, or Bassanio may have been on his mind. Bassanio's new courtship seems likely to be the source of Antonio's sadness, as it's at the forefront of his mind. Antonio clearly cares deeply about Bassanio as a friend, and he's facing the fact that he might lose him to this woman, which ideally he doesn’t want to happen. Antonio also says; “I pray you, good Bassanio, let me know it; And if it stand, as you yourself still do, Within the eye of honour, be assur'd My purse, my person, my extremest means, Lie all unlock'd to your occasions.” Here we are portrayed with the image that Antonio is willing to do anything to help his friend, including loaning him the money to woo

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