The Merchant Of Venice: Act 4

Act Four, Scene One

1. What does the Duke believe Shylock intends to do? Show no mercy
2. What does Shylock intend to do, and what reasons does he give for his decision? Cut a pound of flesh from Antonio because he just dosent like him
3. Why must the law be allowed to stand (why can’t the judge dismiss this case) He must cut exactly one pound no more or no less
4. Shylock is very clear about the restrictions in the wording of the deed, how does Portia use these loopholes? No blood and Mercy
5. What penalties does Shylock now have to pay? Are they fair? Why/why not. Half his wealth to Antonio and the other half to the general state
6. How do Lorenzo and Jessica gain by the result? Antonio would go along with Shylock punishment if his money was given to Lorenzo and Jessica
7. What reward has Portia claimed and why is this significant? She gets half of Shylock's property when he dies
8. 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 about mercy, she saying No one shows mercy and that's because he has to.

Act Four, Scene Two

1. What invitation does Portia refuse and why? The duke asked her to dinner and she said no because she had to leave to Padua straight away.
2. What does Nerissa plan to get, why do you think this is important? He husbands ring
3. Do you admire Portia after these scenes, or do you find her actions cruel. Use examples to support your thinking. Cruel.