The Merchant of Venice · Chapter
Scene III explained
Shylock insists on his bond and refuses to show mercy to Antonio, who is now in custody.
What happens
Shylock insists on his bond and refuses to show mercy to Antonio, who is now in custody. Antonio acknowledges Shylock's hatred and the legal necessity of the bond, hoping only that Bassanio will witness his payment.
Themes in this chapter
Justice vs. Mercy
Shylock insists on strict legal justice and rejects mercy, while Antonio appeals for a hearing but ultimately submits to the law.
Revenge and Forgiveness
Shylock seeks revenge for past wrongs, refusing to forgive or relent, while Antonio shows no desire for retaliation.
Prejudice and Anti-Semitism
Shylock references being called a dog by Antonio, highlighting the anti-Semitic hostility that fuels his demand for the bond.
Characters to notice
- Shylock
Demands his bond and refuses to listen to pleas for mercy, citing past insults and his oath.
- Antonio
Accepts his fate, explaining Shylock's hatred stems from Antonio's past interference with usury, and hopes Bassanio will see him pay the debt.
- Salarino
Comments on Shylock's stubbornness, calling him an 'impenetrable cur.'
- Bassanio
Mentioned by Antonio as the one he hopes will come to see him pay his debt.
Key passages
“I’ll have my bond; speak not against my bond: I have sworn an oath that I will have my bond.”
I will not listen to any argument against my bond; I have sworn an oath to enforce it.
Shylock's unwavering insistence on the literal terms of the contract.
“The duke cannot deny the course of law: For the commodity that strangers have With us in Venice, if it be denied, Will much impeach the justice of his state; Since that the trade and profit of the city Consisteth of all nations.”
The Duke must uphold the law, because denying justice to foreign merchants would damage Venice's reputation and economy, which depends on international trade.
Antonio explains why the law cannot be bent, even to save his life.