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Discuss your view/opinions on the character of Portia from The Merchant of Venice with reference to the trial scene.

In the trial scene, the disguised Portia demonstrates resolve and wit. She also shows either foolhardiness or courage in choosing to represent Antonio. His life is in her hands. Portia begins her argument by establishing that the bond between Shylock and Antonio must be upheld, but she appeals to Shylock’s mercy. Her description of mercy’s beauty and power reveals a poetic and insightful spirit.


When Shylock does not bend, Portia asks whether the bond can be repaid. Shylock rejects the money, so Portia concludes, “there is no power in Venice / Can alter a decree established.” Apparently, she does not wholly believe in mercy after all because she does not argue that the law should be merciful. She says that breaking the law would set an unfortunate precedent.


After pleading with Shylock, Portia seemingly gives up, telling Antonio, “prepare your bosom for his knife.” Just in time, she prevents the act and points out that the bond allows for a pound of flesh but no blood. Moreover, she says that it is illegal to “shed / One drop of Christian blood.” Portia uses Shylock’s own adherence to the law against him, refusing to let him take the money instead of Antonio’s flesh.


Both Shylock and Antonio remain relatively intact, but Portia still decides to seek some revenge on her husband, who said he would give her up for Antonio’s sake. She insists on receiving a ring given to him by her as payment. This behavior concludes a scene in which she is clever and heroic but also manipulative and sometimes harsh. Portia is a mostly admirable woman whose character can be somewhat tainted due to the position she takes as a bringer of justice.

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