While Balthazar's speech is rational for us, considering the circumstances of the trial reveals that the speech was for naught. First, Balthazar is a Christian lecturing Shylock, who hates Christians and is hated by Christians, about the after life. Also, Shylock simply doesn't care about the effects of his actions. He was so despicable that his own daughter fled from him. He even starved his servant Lancelet. Overall, Shylock would have never listened to a Christian, especially about morality. This does not, however, detract from the lessons we can learn today from the speech.
Portia addressed the important value of mercy, which can define one's character. It certainly enhanced my dismal perception of Shylock's character. Though Zach mentioned that because Portia was from a Christian, her speech was downplayed by Shylock, Portia spoke about a common between both religions, God (Yahweh). "It is an attribute to God himself. / And earthly power dost the become likest God's, / Where mercy seasons justice" (Shakespeare 4.1.190-212). I don't believe this struck Shylock as important or worthwhile as he responded obstinately. Last, it proved to be ironic where towards the end of this scene Shylock begged for mercy from the same person he denied it to.
While Balthazar's speech is rational for us, considering the circumstances of the trial reveals that the speech was for naught. First, Balthazar is a Christian lecturing Shylock, who hates Christians and is hated by Christians, about the after life. Also, Shylock simply doesn't care about the effects of his actions. He was so despicable that his own daughter fled from him. He even starved his servant Lancelet. Overall, Shylock would have never listened to a Christian, especially about morality. This does not, however, detract from the lessons we can learn today from the speech.
ReplyDeletePortia addressed the important value of mercy, which can define one's character. It certainly enhanced my dismal perception of Shylock's character. Though Zach mentioned that because Portia was from a Christian, her speech was downplayed by Shylock, Portia spoke about a common between both religions, God (Yahweh). "It is an attribute to God himself. / And earthly power dost the become likest God's, / Where mercy seasons justice" (Shakespeare 4.1.190-212). I don't believe this struck Shylock as important or worthwhile as he responded obstinately. Last, it proved to be ironic where towards the end of this scene Shylock begged for mercy from the same person he denied it to.
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