Antonio is a key character in the play and as a result is the subject of many conflicting opinions, both by critics and readers.
He has a rather contradictory personality in that he has a strong sense of inferiority but at times can be very forward in taking the initiative. For example, in the proposal scene in the play, one would think that judging by the Duchess" headstrong attitude, she would make the first move but Antonio begins the courting:.
"So please your beauteous excellence".
This is a blatant piece of flattery and most unlike Antonio, which makes us think that there may be more to him that it seems. The Duchess is delighted by this forwardness and consequently returns the flirtatious gesture by saying:.
"I look young for your sake".
Then, however, Antonio seems a bit intimidated by this and takes an abrupt change in heart:.
"I"ll fetch your Grace the particulars of your revenue and expense".
He seems to suddenly remember whom he is flirting with and her status- perhaps he feels out of his league and inferior?.
Later on in the play, however, he seems to be assertive again when he hints at himself and the Duchess having sex by use of a double entendre: "In a couple" (of bed sheets?), possibly on purpose so that if she then turned him down he would not feel so ashamed as it is such a subtle hint. In a way we may be seeing a cunning and clever side to Antonio, in that he thinks ahead to what he is saying when it really matters.
At times, the Duchess seems surprised by Antonio, because occasionally it is as if he is a perfect match for her in terms of forwardness:.
"You have made me stark blind" and kneels to the floor in a gesture of proposal, but then when the Duchess goes to kiss him she seems shocked "You do tremble" and disappointed "This you should have begged now".
More often than not, Antonio does seem to be a good character out of his depth-and he always seems to be out of his depth at the wrong time.