The main assumption in 'The Merchant Of Venice' is that Shylock is the villain, although in plain perception he does seem to be the antagonist there is reason to consider the possibility that Antonio can be just as villainous as him. Throughout the play Shylock is constantly put under an evil light while Antonio is portrayed as the victim but in reality Antonio has proven that he has his fair share of villainous moments. A common trait that they both share is religious discrimination, using each others beliefs and stereotyping them to bring each other down. They also show their merciless and unfair selves with the bond which they created together, showcasing their reactions when the contract is broken. In addition they also both desire different things that make their characters seem stubborn, greedy and selfish.
