"I would be friends with you, and have your love, Forget the shames that you have stained me with, Supply your present wants, and take no doit Of usance for my monies, and you'll not hear me" (Shakespeare I.iii.131-34).
Shylock wishes to befriend Bassanio and Antonio by changing the penalty if their bond is not repaid on time. Shylock alters his usual practice of charging interest in hopes that his "kindness" (I.iii.136) will stop them from discriminating him in public. Shylock has been called a dog, been spat on, and feels rejected by society. He is hoping that his act of "kindness" will prevent this type of discrimination from continuing. However, Shylock seems to have other intentions in mind as well. By insisting that Antonio's punishment if he does not pay back the bond on time shows Shylock's unrevealed intentions. Shylock says, "If I can catch him once upon the hip, I will feed fat the ancient grudge I bear him" (I.iii.38-39). Shylock's outer intensions do not match his inner intentions. Shylock's dual personality is evident.
Katie--Yes, you are getting at the paradox that Shylock presents in this scene. Does he truly hate Antonio and the Christians? Or does he wish to extend a genuine hand of friendship? Does Shylock himself know for sure?
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