Shakespeare’s play, “The Merchant of Venice”, portrays a wide range of human experiences. The characters live them out. The play’s context makes these experiences different for each person. Venice is a multicultural and exotic setting. It’s also extremely power-driven and money-driven. Shylock’s actions are an excellent example of how humanity is in a deep paradox. The paradoxical Shylock character is shown throughout the text. We understand him as an unruly, cruel Jew whose selfish behavior is countered by his emotions. Portia, an outspoken feminist, shows us that she is a paradox for society. She controls her destiny and manipulates the situations to her advantage. This is illustrated by the two characters.
Shylock’s selfishness, greed and obsession with money is evident throughout “The Merchant of Venice”. His portrayal in the play makes him a stereotypical Jew. He has been subject to persecution from Venetian Christians. Shylock may have been reasoning about his malice throughout, but it is not made clear. Shylock developed resentment due to the constant persecution and has since developed villainous and irrational qualities. Shylock refuses the Duke’s request to show Antonio mercy. He doesn’t give a reason for his inaction, but he says that he would rather have three thousand ducats than a weight of carrion flesh. It is not my answer, but I will. “Is that the answer?” This statement highlights how Shylocks straight-forward and dull language is used in order to offend Antonio. Shylocks animus towards Antonio is obvious, even though the argument may not have been valid to him. Although Shylock’s actions seem unreasonable to the audience, it becomes clear that they are the result of his past treatment. Shylock is an anomaly to human experience. He causes people to sympathise even though he’s viewed as a bad guy. The audience perceives Shylock’s evil traits as a result of circumstances, and he is a victim to persecution. Shylock speaks out in support of equality between Christians Christians. Hast a Jew hand, organs and dimensions? Does he have feelings, passions, emotions, or affections? – They are all fed the exact same food, have the same ailments, and are even hurt by the identical weapons. The speech shows how emotionally damaged Shylock is from the persecution. This contrasts with his cruelty behavior. Shylock is perceived as a victim rather than a villain in this speech. The paradox of Shylock becoming a victim and a villain is an example of how human nature is dependent upon the circumstances and time.
Portia is referred to as ‘the perfect lady’. Portia has been described as intelligent, polite, beautiful, and intelligent. She is described as beautiful, intelligent, and polite. However, beneath her beauty lies her drive to decide her own fate. One example is the time she displayed three caskets in order to choose her husband. She manipulates the suitors in order to get Bassanio the right casket. It is Venetian Law that a child must fully obey her father. Portia would be shamed for her disobedience had these actions been revealed. Venetian women weren’t considered to be intelligent or lower than men in society. Portia, on the other hand, is paradoxical. She is seen as a weak woman seeking a husband at play’s beginning, but then uses the law to save Antonio. Portia feels a quiet peace knowing that she is equally powerful as men. Portia’s confidence and belief in herself is reflected in this statement.
Act 4: Portia, disguised as an adult male, demonstrates her dedication to the law while also trying to incorporate mercy. Shylock was given the option of being merciful. Or the court would follow the law. Shylock believed Antonio deserved justice. Portia used his words from the bond to her benefit and released Antonio. It was unusual for Venetian women to desire a sense a accomplishment. She dressed as a man to ‘outsmart’ a court. Portia, along with Nerissa, her lady in wait, took Bassanio’s promise rings away to further test her husband’s loyalty. Portia stated, “Even such void are you false heartof truth. I swear by heaven, I won’t let you sleep in my bed until I see your ring. Portia enjoys humiliating her husband and laughs at his loyalty. As it is highly offensive for women to humiliate men, especially their husbands, this behavior would have been considered outrageous in society. Bassanio must accept that Portia saved Antonio’s lives by her intelligence and wit. Portia’s manipulation and intelligent nature allow her to be a symbol of human complexity throughout the play.
Shylock, Portia and other characters in the play “Merchant of Venice” are both characterized by paradoxical characteristics that make them a great example of people being profoundly paradoxical as they challenge society’s morals.
