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Monday, 2 December 2019

Shakespeare - The Merchant of Venice - Act Four

Act Four, Scene One

What does the Duke believe Shylock intends to do? Show mercy to Shylock

What does Shylock intend to do, and what reasons does he give for his decision? Take a pound of flesh out of the poor merchant

Why must the law be allowed to stand (why can’t the judge dismiss this case) Mercy

Shylock is very clear about the restrictions in the wording of the deed, how does Portia use these loopholes? There should be no blood and no mercy

What penalties does Shylock now have to pay? Half of Antonio's wealth Are they fair? No Why/why not. Because he is getting half of Antonio's wealth

How do Lorenzo and Jessica gain by the result? She gets half of Shylock's property.

What reward has Portia claimed and why is this significant? The ring

Portia tells Shylock ‘The quality of mercy is not strained’. How does she try to persuade Shylock to show mercy, how much mercy is she willing to show him (line 345-362) Portia gives a speech and is willing to show mercy

Act Four, Scene Two

What invitation does Portia refuse and why? The duke asked Portia to dinner she said no because she had to go padua straight away


What does Nerissa plan to get, why do you think this is important? Her husbands ring

Do you admire Portia after these scenes, or do you find her actions cruel. Use examples to support your thinking. She is not cruel

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