Shakespeare’s play The Merchant of Venice’ depicts 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 show how human beings are inherently paradoxical. 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, a outspoken feminist, is also shown to be a paradox in society. She creates her own destiny and manipulates 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”. The play portrays him as a stereotypical Jew from the past who has suffered 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 blunt and simple language is used in order to offend Antonio. Shylocks animus towards Antonio is obvious, even though the argument may not have been valid for him. Although Shylock’s actions seem unreasonable to the audience, it becomes clear that they are due to his past treatment. Shylock is an anomaly to human experience. He causes people to sympathize with him even though they see him as a villain. The audience perceives Shylock’s evil traits as a result of circumstances, and he is viewed as someone who has suffered persecution. Shylock speaks out in support of equality between Christians, Jews and Christians. Hast a Jew hand, organs and dimensions? Does he have feelings, affections or passions? – They are all fed the same food, have the same injuries, and suffer from the identical diseases. This speech shows how emotionally hurt Shylock is from the persecution. It is quite a contrast to his earlier cruelty. 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 complex. In Shylock’s case, it is determined by the circumstances and time in which one lives.
Portia is described by many as a ‘perfect woman.’ Portia has been described as beautiful, polite, and intelligent. However, her beauty and intellect are only a part of what makes her attractive. She also has a drive to control her fate. One example is the time she displayed three caskets in order to choose her husband. Although Venetian Law requires a daughter of her father to be completely loyal to him, Bassanio manipulates his suitors to choose the right casket. She was able to allow them to marry. 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’s story is paradoxical in that she is seen first as a woman searching for a husband. But, she then uses her intelligence as a way to get around the law and save Antonio. Portia finds quiet satisfaction in knowing she has the same power as men through this. 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. She offered Shylock an option: either be merciful or 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 and Nerissa, her lady-inwaiting, decided to deprive Bassanio, in an attempt to test her husband’s loyalty. Portia stated, “Even such void are you false heartof truth. It is a promise from heaven that I will not go to your bed unless I see the ring. Portia enjoys humiliating her husband and laughs at his ingenious trick. 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 manipulations 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.
