Same Love

Antonio's relationship with Bassanio is full of overwhelming love and loyalty. Antonio is more than willing to risk all of his wealth and his life, in order to fulfill the aspirations of his dearest friend. However, there is a point where one begins to question, is this just innocent amity? Or is there a more hidden, intimate relationship between Antonio and Bassanio? There are several scenes with Anotonio  that make the reader question whether or not he is a heterosexual. As Bassanio proposes the loan to Antonio, he finds that his friend is eager to offer his aid. Antonio informs Bassanio that, "[his] purse, [his] person, [his] extremist means/Lie all unlocked to [Bassanio's] occasion" (1.1.137-138). Not only does Antonio offer up his wealth but also his person. This could be interpreted to have some sexual dimensions, Antonio possibly alluding to a more than friendly relationship between himself and Bassanio. In Act 2, Antonio claims "he only loves the world" (2.8.50) for Bassanio. Antonio's love seems to be dramatic considering Bassanio is just his pal. Antonio also convinces Bassanio to give away Portia's ring. Were there hidden motives behind this persuasion? Antonio perhaps secretly resents Portia for being Bassanio's lover. When Bassanio gives away the ring it symbolizes a dim future for his relationship with Portia. Maybe once they're in Splitsville, him and Antonio can live happily ever after like it was always meant to be.