Discuss the role of Gratiano in the play, ‘The Merchant of Venice’.

Ans.

Among the minor characters of the play, ‘The Merchant of Venice‘, Gratiano occupies a very important place and makes significant contribution to make the play successful.

Gratiano is a constant companion of Bassanio. He is a big talker and Bassanio tells, not with much truth and definitely with some unkindness, that he is the greatest talker of non-sense in entire Venice and that there ae only two grains (of wisdom) in his two bushels of wheat (talk). But Gratiano is a merry fellow and has a very positive outlook on life. He lays a great store by mirth and cheerfulness. He preaches (and he practices it himself) to Antonio the desirability and advisability of mirth and laughter in life. Although Gratiano is a minor character he does a lot to enliven the atmosphere in the play. He is one of the permanent and familiar social types without whom no company is complete.”

Gratiano’s sprits run wild in familiar company and Bassanio cautions him to be restrained during Bassanio’s Belmont visit and Gratiano responds to the call admirably and conducts himself with decorum and grace. It appears that Gratiano is non-serious and rude but he is actually a man of wit and wisdom and conceals a very sober mind and behind his exuberance.

He possesses ready wit which shows to advantage in the Court Scene. He provides light humour and entertainment in an other wise tense situation. He also provides in his speech and action a contrast to Antonio’s melancholy.

Thus we can infer that Gratiano’s role is significant for the development of the plot and for sustaining the interest and spirit of the audience (or readers). Thus he occupies by right an important place among the minor characters of the pay.

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