Conflict

• There are two main key moments where a conflict arises in the merchant of Venice. In this play a moment where conflict arose was an act one scene three. This significant dispute arose between Shylock who was a Jewish money lender and Antonio a strong willed Christian merchant. Shylock expresses hatred towards Antonio due to religious and business methods
• The conflict deepens when Antonio wanted to borrow 3000 ducats from Shylock as a guarantor for Bassanio. Shylock recalled Antonios ill treatment towards him prior, S said he called him names.
• He agreed to loan the money under condition the condition of this loan was brutal.”Let the forfeit be nominated for an equal pound of your fair flesh”. Antonio agreed to the bond - his willingness to enter such an agreement adds to Shylock’s animosity towards him.

  chance for shylock to get revenge - “I will feed the fat ancient grudge I bear him”
• Antonio’s Strong willed nature is evident when he saw the bond despite Bassanio trying to discourage him because of the grim terms. “ you shall not steal seal such bond for me, I’ll rather dwell in my necessity”. Bond - drastic tension - life threatening ultimatum.
• When did three-month period time elapsed Antonio was unable to repay the loan the tension in act four scene one intensified.Shylock now demand for a pound of flesh,duke urges him to be merciful but he refuses.

  failure to pay back loan - entitlement by shylock.
• The court to showcase Antonio begging for Mercy,but Shylock desires vengeance this exhibited tension as Antonio is unsure of his survival. Dr Balthasar increase suspense and drama in the play,as she gives hope to the Jew,”The Jew May claim a pound of his flesh”. The conflict took a turning point when Balthasar asked the Jew to Tarry. The lawyer mentioned that the bond didn’t include the shedding of blood but if he does his property will be confiscated.
• Shylock surrenders- has to give half of his wealth to his daughter and her husband and has to become a Christian.
• The scene where Antonio asks Shylock for a loan, and the the Court scene heightens the drama. Initially Antonio’s request - basis for the conflict between the 2 characters and the isssue of discrimination . Court scene heightens drama - Shylocks demand for a pound of Antonios flesh serves as a legal and moral dilemma enhancing the drama.