Reasoning

Bassanio is a man who is not easily deceived. When he is looking at the three caskets he reads the inscriptions carefully before he makes the correct choice. He is able to look beyond outward appearances of grandeur to the real meaning. When talking about the lead casket he says “Thy paleness moves me more than eloquence; and here choose I.” (74). This quote shows that Bassanio is a clever, insightful man. Of course he is correct in choosing the lead casket, because he is a character who does not make rash decisions. He is also a man who does everything with all the energy and passion he has. When he chooses a casket he says “Joy be the consequence!” (74), which shows that he is not afraid of the consequences. This extends to his friendships as well. When he gets the letter from Antonio about the ships and how they crashed, he goes right away to see Antonio. Bassanio knows that this s a disaster and Antonio needs him, so he leaves Portia right away to go to Antonio, once again doing everything he can for his friend. Shakespeare is portraying Bassanio as a man who thinks things through, and who gives life his all. He wants to be there for his friends, and does everything that’s possible for them. His emotions are strong, as demonstrated by his love for Portia and how he will do anything to have her, including borrow money so he can appear rich. Bassanio is a true friend, and a man that makes wise decisions through careful reasoning.