In the merchant of venice act 2 scene 2,

Portia gives Bassanio the ring with a warning, and Bassanio accepts the ring with his own pledge. How is this contract or bond similar to and different from the one made in Venice? What significance did rings have in Elizabethan England? Do they have the same significance today?

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In order to understand the similarities and differences between the contract or bond in Act 2 Scene 2 of "The Merchant of Venice" and the one made in Venice, it is important to first analyze the context and events of the play.

In Act 2 Scene 2, Portia, a wealthy heiress, gives Bassanio, her suitor, a ring as a symbol of her love and fidelity. However, she adds a warning that he must never part with the ring, as breaking the bond would signify the end of their relationship. Bassanio, in turn, accepts the ring and promises never to give it away.

This contract or bond is similar to the one made in Venice in the sense that both involve the exchange of a valuable item (the ring) as a sign of commitment and trust. Both agreements rely on the symbolism of the ring to represent fidelity, loyalty, and the binding nature of the promises made. Additionally, both contracts carry consequences if they are broken, as they have the potential to end or strain the relationships involved.

However, the contract in Act 2 Scene 2 differs from the one made in Venice in a few key ways. Firstly, the contract in Venice is a legally binding contract related to a loan, with specific terms and conditions, consequences for non-payment, and the involvement of a legally recognized authority (the court). On the other hand, the contract between Portia and Bassanio is more of a personal agreement, based on emotional trust and commitment rather than legal obligations.

As for the significance of rings in Elizabethan England, they held great importance. Rings were commonly worn as symbols of love, betrothal, friendship, or loyalty. They were seen as objects of power, status, and emotional connection. Rings were often engraved with intricate designs or inscriptions that held personal meaning and were given as tokens of affection or vows.

In contemporary society, the significance of rings has evolved, but they still carry symbolic value. Engagement and wedding rings, for example, continue to represent love, commitment, and the bond between partners. Additionally, in some cultural contexts, rings are still used to signify membership in organizations, fraternities, or religious groups.

In summary, the contract or bond in Act 2 Scene 2 of "The Merchant of Venice" is similar to the one made in Venice in terms of involving the exchange of a valuable item as a symbol of commitment, trust, and fidelity. However, the contract in Venice is a legally binding agreement related to a loan, while the one between Portia and Bassanio is more of a personal agreement. Rings held significant cultural and emotional value in Elizabethan England and continue to hold symbolic significance in various contexts today.

The ring shows love and affection also commitment between couple.

The bond made in Venice and Belmont have vast difference. The contract made in Venice failed it demand Antonio's pond of flesh where as in Belmont it will show no faith in love ones.