Bassanio's Character

Bassanio is the lucky beneficiary of the wealth and generosity of Portia and Antonio. When he felt in debts , he asked Antonio for money. When he wanted to propose to Portia, he also borrowed money after Antonio's name and credit. When he married Portia, she was ready to pay double and triple times of the borrowed money to save bassanio's friend.

Bassanio is a loyal friend ,this is well shown through his reactions when he received the letter from Antonio saying that all his ships sank, and that he won't be able to pay the money on time. Therefore bassanio told Portia that he needs to save Antonio before marrying her. During the trial, bassanio was ready to sacrifice with all what he got even with his wife to set Antonio free. This really shows that bassanio isa good friend, and wasn't using his friend at the beginning of the play.

Bassanio is a loving husband too. This is clearly identified when he was choosing the right casket and taking the oath that he will never marry another woman if failed in choosing the right casket. He also proved to be a faithful husband when trying to refuse the idea of giving the ring away to the lawyer, saying that his wife would be upset ,as the ring is so valuable to both of them.

Bassanio represents youth. He wanted to live a life full of luxury and money. That's why he is called an extravagant. He felt in debts ,and to marry Portia, he had to borrow money. He also represents youth through his desire to appear from a different claas, he spent a lot of time and money with his friends. This is obviously related to the theme of appearance vs. reality.

To conclude, throughout THE MERCHANT OF VENICE bassanio symbolizes the theme of friendship and love. He is well proved to be a faithful friend , a true loving husband. He is a good symbol for youth who love life and money.