The primary theme of The Merchant of Venice is the relationship between compassion and justice. This theme is best demonstrated by “the quality of mercy” speech that Portia gives while disguised as an attorney. On the other side is Shylock’s behavior as he attempts to exact payment by the latter not the spirit of a contract. Shylock also invokes the need for empathy and compassion as he asks in his monologue, “If you prick us do we not bleed?”Another important theme is the duty of a child to their parent: Portia follows her father’s rules for choosing a husband, although she does not believe they are the best method, and by doing so ends up with the correct partner. The alternate attitude is that of Jessica, who defies her father and not only elopes with Lorenzo but also steals from her father and changes her religion. Shylock is forced to exercise compassion and mercy in dealing with her and her husband. The general question of value is also important. The character of Shylock stands out for his excessive love of money—an often-critiqued stereotypical presentation of the association between Jews and usury. The method of the suitors’ choosing among the caskets also bears out this theme; because people are commonly “deceived with ornament,” the correct choice is lead, not the obvious ones of gold and silver.
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