Bassanio’s character reveals the following qualities :
(1) His Extravagance and Sense of Honour : Bassanio is very extravagant. He believes in pomp and show. It is also evident from his company of hangers on and dresses of his servants. But he has a sense of honour also. He took a loan from Antonio and wasted it. Yet he wishes to get rid of his debts honourably.
(2) Fortune Hunter : Bassanio tells Antonio his win to wish the hand of a rich lady Portia. Although he has received mute signals of love from Portia yet he will have to depend on his fortune. He may have her hand only when he chooses the correct casket. It reveals that he is the believer of fortune.
(3) His Handsomeness and Accomplishments : According to Nerissa and Portia he is very much handsome. He is also said to be scholar and soldier, although we do not find the traces of his soldiership in the play.
(4) His Love for Portia and Antonio : Bassanio reveals a deep love for Portia and Antonio. It is evident from his words in the trial scene— “Portia is as dear to him as life itself. But he can sacrifice his life, his wife and all the world for Antonio.”
(5) Conclusion : Bassanio can be regarded as a cultured man. In the whole play he never uses bad words about Shylock or his religion. Bassanio’s wastefulness and” fortune hunting may be called bad qualities but all other qualities of Bassanio are praise worthy. Thus, inspite of being not a dominant character, he is quite impressive.
