The Merchant of Venice- justice questions

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Questions About Justice

What is Portia/Balthazar's argument for Shylock to be merciful to Antonio?

Why does Shylock insist on getting his pound of flesh in the courtroom? What does his pursuit of his bond suggest about his character?

Is Shylock's forced conversion to Christianity supposed to be an act of "mercy"?

Is there justice for any of the characters at the end of the play? Is justice a natural or necessary part of the play's resolution?

1. Portia's argument is simply that mercy over rules all over characteristics. Mercy is something that just happens like the gentle rain falls to the ground. Mercy is also in the heart of the king and suits him better than his own crown. By Portia talking about how kings suit it and that it is a true blessing from god to the giver and receiver might actually make Shylock think about it. Portia also states that justice will not save our souls and that mercy is something we pray for and that we should display mercy for us to receive any mercy.

2. Shylock insist of getting a pound of Antonio's flesh because that was the deal they made at the beginning. Shylock was actually doing the right thing by keeping this pact and acting on what was planned. Although most people suggest that Shylock is a dirty Jew i think that to keep his bond was actually a sign of strength. to resist 6 000 ducats for a pound of flesh shows how commited he is to the deal. At the same time though wanting a pound of flesh that could cause serious harm and possibly death over money is gruesome and not very logical.

3.i think that Shylock changing to Christianity isn't merciful. the only merciful part of this scene was he fact that antonio let the jew have his estate if he converts to christianity. i don't see how picking the better punishment is in any way an ac of mercy on the jews behalf.

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