Character Analysis of William Shakespeares Portia from The Merchant of Venice
... In “The Merchant of Venice”, however, William Shakespeare presents not only a woman of great beauty and wealth, but also a character who displays the noble traits of loyalty, honesty, wit, generosity, and yet humble modesty. It is through his great heroine, Portia, that Shakespeare embodies the play’s theme of mercy. In order to form an objective opinion of any character within literature, information must be gained through what is being said about that character and what is being said by that character. Thus, one must hear the words of Bassanio, the Prince of Morocco, Jessica, Bellario and even those of Shylock as each speaks of Portia. Bassanio is first to speak of Portia’s character in his description to Antonio: In Belmont is a lady richly left; And she is fair and, fairer than that word, Of wondrous virtues (1. ... It is of no surprise that Bassanio first mentions Portia’s wealth, for the dowry was discussed in planning any Elizabethan marriage and held great importance. ... To the Prince of Morroco, Portia is the pattern of perfection: Why, that’s the lady; all the world desires her. From the four corners of the earth they come To kiss this shrine, this mortal breathing saint (2. ... If the previous portrayals are disregarded as being delivered by men smitten by her beauty, Jessica’s depiction of Portia will stand solid; for it is a woman’s description of another woman. ... The Duke declares that Bellario has recommended [Portia] as “a young and learned doctor to our court” (4. ... Even Shylock praises Portia [Balthasar] as a young “Daniel come to Judgment” and as a “wise young judge” (4. ... These numerous descriptions given by other characters are quite convincing of Portia’s admirable characteristics, yet more persuasive than these are the lady’s own words and conduct throughout the play.