Merchant Of Venice Self Interest Vs Love Analysis

Has symbolism been able to enhance themes in various classical plays through important figures? The theme of self-interest versus love is one of the many themes that can be carefully examined by the various symbols that are shown in the play, The Merchant of Venice. In William Shakespeare’s memorable comedy, the detailed analysis of this theme, self-interest versus love can be effectively explored through the significant symbols in the play: the three caskets and the pound of flesh and how it connects to several characters in the text specifically, seen through the contrasts between the values of Christians and Jewish characters. This can be proven through a detailed analysis of the theme during the lottery plot line involving various suitors, who will receive Portia’s hand in …show more content…
He tells Antonio about the little worth of human flesh and that he should not disobey him because there will be consequences regarding it. Shylock did not ask for anything else except for the flesh which reflects Shylock’s self-centred personality and how he wants something to make himself happy because he is seeking satisfaction for the loss of his own flesh and blood from his enemy. His selfish personality and stubbornness causes him to want numerous monetary goods more than human friendships. This can be proven when he says “My deeds upon my head! I crave the law,/the penalty and forfeit of my bond” (4.1.213-214). Shylock demands for the flesh from Antonio and has no sympathy for how Antonio feels due to his previous betrayal to him. However, Shylock does not want Antonio to die, but asks for the flesh instead of the three thousand ducats because he measures everything in numerical quantities. Shylock’s self-interested personality is revealed because he does not forget the idea of the bond and continuously reminds everyone that he needs the pound of