Kit A. Nadado Critical Response Paper Worth is a term defined differently by various characters in Shakespeares The Merchant of Venice.

Each definition of this term along with its synonyms reflects the values and attitudes of the characters that use the term. Throughout the play, Antonio and Shylocke repeatedly use the term worth in their lines or at least a word synonymous to it. Antonios definition of worth is rooted in relationships and friendships, while Shylockes definition of worth is materialistic. Antonios definition of worth reflects the value he has for friendships over material wealth while Shylockes definition reflects his value for material worth over relationships. To Antonio, worth pertains to the value of friendship over material possessions. In his conversation with Salerio, Antonio proves that he values friendships more than wealth. Salerio, assuming that Antonios sadness comes from Antonios worry over his wealth at sea states, And, in a word, but even now worth this and now worth nothing? I know Antonio is sad to think upon his merchandise (35-41). Salerio refers to the term worth here as monetary, accusing Antonio of being sad over the potential loss of wealth. In response, Antonio denies, Believe me, no. I thank my fortune for it, therefore my merchandise makes me not sad (41, 45). Antonios answer suggests that wealth is not necessarily of great worth that should bring him such sadness or joy. Instead, Antonio explains, Your worth is very dear in my regard (62), suggesting that his friendship with Salerio is worth more than his wealth at sea. This same regard that friendship is of more worth than wealth is ultimately expressed in Antonios sacrifice towards Bassanios cause. In response to Bassanios timid request for assistance in wooing Portia, Antonio answers, And out of doubt you do me now more wrong in making question of my uttermost than if you had made waste of all I have (155-157). Antonios statement suggests his willingness to lay down every material possession he had in order to assist a friend. Antonio further proves that friendship is worth more than wealth when he agreed on Shylockes bargain; even making Antonios own flesh collateral in the process. On his impending defeat, Antonio expressed his great value towards his friendship with Bassanio saying, I am armed and well-prepared. Give me your hand, Bassanio; fare you well! (262-263). Antonios willingness to sacrifice all material possessions including his life is a testament of his value for friendships over wealth. Contrary to Antonio, Shylockes definition of worth is materialistic. In his conversation with Bassanio, Shylocke describes Antonio: Antonio is a good man (12). Bassanio, assuming that Shylocke is referring to Antonios worth as a good friend responds, even proudly, Have you heard any imputation to the contrary? (13). To Bassanios dismay, Shylocke answers, My meaning in saying he is a good man is to have you understand me that he is sufficient (13-17). Shylockes response shows that he values the material worth of Antonio as a customer, sufficient to be a source of wealth, not as a potential friend. Shylockes value for material possessions over relationships and friendships is further shown through his reaction upon Jessicas escape with Lorenzo. In his conversation with Tubal, Shylocke laments more on the loss of his jewelry and ducats rather than the loss of his daughter. Shylocke states, Two thousand ducats in that, and other precious, precious jewels. I would my daughter were dead at my foot, and the jewels in her ear! Would she were hearsed at my foot, and the ducats in her coffin (82-85). This statement reinforces the assumption that material possessions are of more worth to Shylocke than his own daughter. Truly, each characters definition of worth portrays where that characters values lie. One values friendship over wealth and the other values the contrary. We may not fully judge the more honorable person in his values for each is influenced by his own experience and circumstance. However, we may judge for ourselves which definition we adopt.