Character Traits

Themes
Symbols
Type of Drama
 Wealthy heiress from Belmont
 Portia is a wealthy heiress, inheriting a vast fortune from
her father.
 Beautiful and intelligent
 Portia is described as beautiful, adding to her allure and
desirability. She is also intelligent and witty, capable of
outsmarting her suitors. “…and her sunny locks, hang on
Portia her temples like a golden fleece”
Impatient and frustrated
Portia expresses her frustration with the limitations
imposed on her by her dead father, which dictates that
she has to marry the first eligible suitor who chooses her.
She has no authority to choose her husband as her will
depends on the will of her dead father. “O, me, the word
‘choose’! I may neither choose who I would, nor refuse
who I dislike’
 Devoted to the memory of dead father
 Portia is genuinely devoted to the memory of her father
who, while dying, had devised a kind of lottery for her
choice of a husband. She is determined to carry the will of
her dead father, although she can disregard her father’s
will and marry a man based on her choices.
 Generous dispositioning
Portia  Portia is a very large-hearted and generous woman. She
combines her vast material wealth with an inner treasure
of generosity. On learning the plight of Bassanio’s dearest
friend, she offers Bassanio any amount of money that he
may need for the rescue of Antonio from the rigid bond of
Shylock.
  Kind and generous merchant
 Antonio, one of the main characters, is a Venetian merchant who
displays kindness and generosity. He is described as generous
because he readily agrees to lend Bassanio money despite being
financially unstable. “Go presently inquire, and so will I, where money
is…”
 Melancholy and brooding
 Antonio admits to feeling sad and heavy-hearted. He expresses his
Antonio concern about his ships being at sea, suggesting a sense of anxiety
and uncertainty. “In sooth, I know not why I am so sad, it wearies
me…”
Pride and arrogant
 Antonio’s response to Shylock’s offer of a loan is marked by disregard
and arrogance. He insults Shylock, calling him a ‘dog’ and refusing to
accept his offer. “I am likely to call thee so again, to spit on thee
again, …if thou lend this money, lend it not as a friend, but lend it
rather to thine enemy”
  Faithful friend
 Bassanio is a faithful friend to Antonio.
 Ambitious
 Bassanio is ambitious and desires to marry Portia, a wealthy
heiress, to improve his social and financial standing. So, he leaves
for Belmont to woo Lady Portia by borrowing a loan from Antonio
promising to repay. “In Belmont is a lady richly rich, and she is fair,
of wondrous virtues; Her name is Portia”
Bassanio Frivolous (extravagant)
 Bassanio is frivolous often spending money beyond his means. He
often relies on others, especially Antonio, to solve his financial
problems, demonstrating a lack of responsibility. He spends his life
lavishly. “How much I have disabled mine state, by something
showing a more swelling port”.
The Hero of the Caskets Story: If Antonio is the hero of the Bond
story, Bassanio is the hero of the caskets story. Of course, he is not
a hero in the absolute sense of the word., but he is certainly a
romantic hero who is able to win the heroine Portia as his wife.
  Jewish moneylender
 Shylock is a Jew who loans money to others for interest.
He lends three thousand ducats to Antonio (Bassanio)
 Malicious and greedy
 Shylock is malicious and greedy because he loans money
for interest only. He hates Antonio for helping others and
mistrusting him.
Shylock Revengeful
Shylock is revengeful. Antonio has mocked Shylock’s
Jewish faith and called him ‘dog,’ causing him great
humiliation. This personal insult had intensified Shylock to
desire for revenge. “Fair sir, you spat on me on
Wednesday last, another time you call’d me dog; and for
these courtesies, I will lend you money? ”
  Deceitful and crafty dealing
 Shylock is a deceitful and crafty man. At first he expresses his
unwillingness to give loan to Antonio on the ground that Antonio had
ill-treated him before. However, later he agrees to give loan but he
lays down the condition that the bond to be signed should contain a
clause of taking a pound of flesh from Antonio if he does not pay on
time. “let the forfeit be nominated for an equal pound of your fair
flesh, to be cut off and taken in what part of your body pleaseth me”
Shylock  Usurer
 By profession, Shylock is a moneylender. Money-lending by itself is
not shameful or discreditable. However, money lending becomes
abhorrent (objectionable) if a money-lender becomes an exploiter by
charging excessive rates of interest. Shylock is a money-lender who
tries to enrich himself and to accumulate wealth by exploiting the
financial needs of others.
 Internal Conflict

Man vs Self Bassanio is a gambler. He spends money

lavishly. Thus, it makes him borrow money
from Antonio after losing his inheritance.
Bassanio vs Himself

Antonio, the merchant, grapples with a

deep-seated melancholy that seems to have
Antonio vs Himself no clear cause.

Portia faces significant internal conflict when

her father’s will forces her to marry the first
Portia vs Her Dilemma suitor. She desires true love but is curbed by
 External Conflict

Antonio and Shylock are opposing characters. They grapple when Bassanio
sought a loan from Antonio but Antonio directed Bassanio to Jewish
Man vs Man moneylender Shylock. Antonio treats Shylock like a dog by spitting on his

Antonio vs Shylock face.

“You who spat on my beard and kicked me as you would a strange dog out of
your house”

Portia cannot choose a man he loves. The man she should marry should choose

Man vs Fate the right casket. The suitor who chooses the right casket from gold, silver and
lead would become her husband.

Portia vs Lottery fate “The will of a living daughter is curbed by the will of a dead father”

Antonio faces this conflict when his ships crash and his merchandise is lost. He is

Man vs Nature in jeopardy of losing his money and becoming bankrupt.

“he lost a merchant ship coming from Tripoli”
“not one vessel has survived the fearful touch of shipwrecking rocks
 External Conflict

Man vs Man Launcelot is the faithful servant of Shylock. However, as Shylock grew
greedy, he did not feed well Launcelot. Therefore, Launcelot decided to
Shylock vs leave his master. But, to this, Shylock poured his frustrations:

Launcelot “Thou shall not gormandize, thou shall not sleep and snore”

Knowing that Bassanio had given Portia’s wedding to someone else, she
revealed her disappointment. He is frustrated and meticulously accused
Portia vs Bassanio Bassanio for not being faithful. So, she harassed Bassanio to test if Bassanio
loves her or not:
“I’ll become as liberal as you; I’ll not deny him anything I have: Not even my
body, nor my husband’s bed”

Shylock vs Law Untill the disguised lawyer turned the table, one can assume that Shylock is
owed at least a pound of flesh as per their legal bond. He sticks to the oath; and
wants to adhere to the law. However, the law turned its table and rather had to
forfeit half of his wealth to Antonio and half to the state of Venice.
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1. Love and Friendship:
The theme of love and friendship is shown in the characters such as,

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Bassanio and Portia, Jessica and Lorenzo, Gratiano and Nerissa and
Antonio and Bassanio. The unwavering friendship between Antonio and
Bassanio is a central theme, exemplified by Antonio’s willingness to

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risk his life for his friend Bassanio. Shakespeare explores the deep
bonds of love and friendship, particularly between Antonio and
Bassanio. Antonio's selfless love for Bassanio is evident when he offers

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his life as collateral for the loan. Bassanio’s love for Portia also plays a
significant role, with his desire to marry her driving the plot. The
theme underscores the complexity of love, loyalty, and sacrifice in
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relationships.
"To you, Antonio, I owe the most in money and in love."
“Why fear not man; that’s a month before this bond expires, I do
expect return, of three times the value of this bond”.
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2. Prejudice and Intolerance:
The play, The Merchant of Venice is also deeply rooted in prejudice and intolerance,

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particularly against Jews. Shylock, the Jew moneylender is subjected to
discrimination, highlighting the rampant racism of the time. The Venetians-
especially Antonio express intolerance and hate towards Shylock and other Jews in

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Venice conveying discrimination and prejudice. Jews are presented as naturally
wicked and inferior to the Christians because of Shylock’s ultimate refusal to show
any mercy. Shylock’s anger and desire for revenge are the result of years of abuse

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and mistreatment. Shylock insists that he “learned his hatred from Christians.” But it
is Shylock alone who argues that all of the characters are the same, in terms of
biology and under the law. Prejudice is a central theme, most notably through the

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treatment of Shylock, the Jewish moneylender. He faces harsh discrimination from
the Christian characters, especially Antonio, who insults and spits on him. Shylock’s
quest for revenge is fueled by the mistreatment he endures due to his religion and
profession, highlighting the destructive impact of societal bias.
"You call me misbeliever, cut-throat dog; And spit upon my Jewish gaberdine."
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3. Clashes of Religion
Religion plays a significant role in the conflict between Christians and

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Jews, with Shylock’s Jewish faith being the source of prejudice and
religious clashes. Jew Shylock and Christian Antonio represent the
religious clashes. The play highlights the religious intolerance and

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prejudice prevalent in Venetian society. The tension between Christians
and Jews drives much of the conflict in the play. Shylock’s desire for
revenge against Antonio is partly rooted in their religious differences,

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reflecting the societal division between Jews and Christians in Venice.
This religious conflict is intertwined with themes of justice, mercy, and

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revenge.
"I am a Jew. Hath not a Jew eyes? ... If you prick us, do we not bleed?"
(Act 3, Scene 1)
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4. Justice and mercy
This theme is central to the courtroom scene in Act 4, Scene 1, where Shylock demands justice
in the form of a "pound of flesh" as stipulated in his bond with Antonio. Portia, disguised as a

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male lawyer, argues for mercy.
Shylock's Demand for Justice: Shylock represents the strict adherence to law and justice,
focusing on the letter of the bond. He refuses to show mercy to Antonio, stating:

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"The pound of flesh which I demand of him; Is dearly bought, 'tis mine and I will have it."
(Act 4, Scene 1) This reflects his rigid interpretation of justice, where mercy has no place.
Portia's Plea for Mercy: Portia delivers a powerful speech on the virtue of mercy,
contrasting it with Shylock's insistence on justice. She emphasizes that mercy is divine and is

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most powerful when combined with justice:
"The quality of mercy is not strain’d; It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven; Upon the
place beneath: it is twice blest; It blesseth him that gives and him that takes." (Act 4,
Scene 1) Portia argues that mercy is a higher moral quality than justice, urging Shylock to

e show compassion, but he refuses.

Resolution through Legal Technicalities: Ultimately, Portia finds a legal loophole to save
Antonio. While justice is served in that Shylock must adhere to the bond’s terms, Portia’s
clever manipulation of the law leads to a merciful outcome for Antonio, while Shylock faces
ruin. This scene demonstrates the tension between the two values: strict justice can be
destructive, while mercy can lead to reconciliation.
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5. Appearance vs Reality
This theme plays out in multiple ways, from the characters' disguises to the deception involved in
the bond between Antonio and Shylock. Many characters and situations are not what they seem

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on the surface, and Shakespeare uses this contrast to expose the truth behind appearances.
Portia’s Disguise: One of the most prominent examples of appearance vs. reality is Portia
disguising herself as a male lawyer (Balthazar) to save Antonio. In Act 4, Scene 1, the audience
knows that the young lawyer is actually Portia, but the characters in the play do not. This leads to

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dramatic irony, as Portia delivers justice while pretending to be someone she is not:
"Tarry a little, there is something else. / This bond doth give thee here no jot of blood; / The words expressly are ‘a
pound of flesh’." (Act 4, Scene 1) Through this deception, Portia reveals the complexity of justice and uses her wit to
prevent a tragedy, showing how reality beneath the disguise can bring about a different outcome than what is

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expected.
The Caskets Test: Another example of appearance vs. reality is the choice of caskets in the plot
involving Portia’s suitors. The gold and silver caskets, which seem attractive on the surface,
symbolize worldly wealth and superficial allure. However, it is the lead casket, which appears dull

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and unassuming, that contains Portia’s portrait and wins her hand in marriage:
"All that glisters is not gold." (Act 2, Scene 7) This teaches the lesson that true worth lies beneath the surface, and
external appearances can be deceiving.
Antonio’s Friendship with Bassanio: Antonio’s outward generosity and willingness to help
Bassanio by borrowing money from Shylock is contrasted with the reality of his deep affection for
his friend, which may border on romantic love. His self-sacrifice appears noble, but it hides an
emotional vulnerability:
"My purse, my person, my extremest means, Lie all unlock’d to your occasions." (Act 1, Scene 1)
Antonio’s willingness to suffer for Bassanio goes beyond simple friendship, suggesting a deeper,
unspoken reality behind his actions.
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6. Portia’s Disguise as Balthazar
The most prominent example of disguise is Portia’s transformation into Balthazar, a male lawyer, in Act 4,
Scene 1. This disguise allows her to manipulate the Venetian legal system and save Antonio from Shylock’s
demand for a pound of flesh. By taking on a male identity, Portia enters a male-dominated space and

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demonstrates intelligence, wit, and legal acumen.
Purpose of the Disguise: Portia’s disguise is a means to an end—using her legal knowledge to influence
the outcome of the trial. Disguising herself as a man allows her to exercise power and authority in a way
she could not as a woman in her society.

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"Tarry a little; there is something else. / This bond doth give thee here no jot of blood." (Act 4, Scene 1) Her legal
maneuvering, while disguised, ultimately prevents Shylock from claiming Antonio’s life. Her disguise here reflects both
her resourcefulness and the limitations placed on women in the society.
Revelation through Disguise: The disguise also adds dramatic irony, as the audience knows that
Balthazar is actually Portia, but the characters do not. This allows Shakespeare to explore themes of

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identity and gender, questioning societal roles and the nature of justice. It also reveals Portia’s intellect
and ability to manage complex situations.
Nerissa’s Disguise
Following Portia’s example, her maid Nerissa also disguises herself as a man, pretending to be a clerk in

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the courtroom scene. While her role is secondary to Portia’s, Nerissa’s disguise further emphasizes the
theme and demonstrates how women in the play must disguise themselves to gain influence.
Disguise in Service of Loyalty: Nerissa’s disguise serves to assist Portia in her plan to save Antonio,
showing her loyalty and wit. Like Portia, she assumes the role of a man to gain access to a world of power
and authority that women are otherwise excluded from.
Jessica’s Disguise as a Boy
Another important instance of disguise is Jessica’s transformation when she elopes with Lorenzo. In Act 2,
Scene 6, Jessica dresses as a boy to escape her father’s house and join her Christian lover, Lorenzo. This
disguise allows her to flee from her father Shylock’s control and symbolically represents her rejection of
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Symbols are objects, characters, figures and colors used to represent
abstract ideas or concepts.

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1. The three caskets:
 Gold: Often associated with outward beauty and superficial qualities, it represents a love
based on appearances and material wealth.
 Silver: Representing wisdom and intellect, it suggests a love based on rational thought and

m logical reasoning.
 Lead: Associated with humility and simplicity, it symbolizes a love based on inner beauty,
kindness, and true worth.

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2. The Pound of Flesh
 The pound of flesh that Shylock seeks has multiple interpretations; it emerges as Shylock’s

o rigidity and inflexible adherence of the law.

 The fact that Bassanio’s debt to be paid with Antonio’s flesh is significant, showing how

l their friendship is so binding it has made them one.

 Shylock’s determination is strengthened by Jessica’s departure as if he was seeking

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recompensation for the loss of his own flesh by collecting from his enemy.
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3. Leah’s Ring
 The ring given to Shylock in his bachelor days by a woman named Leah, who is most likely

y Shylock’s wife and Jessica’s mother, gets only a brief mention in the play but is still an
object of great importance. When told that Jessica has stolen it and traded it for a monkey,

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shylock very poignantly (emotionally) laments its loss; “I would not given it for a wilderness
of monkeys”
 The lost ring allows us to see Shylock in an uncharacteristically vulnerable position on view

b to view him as a human being capable of feeling something more than anger.
 A ring also signifies a commitment to love and marriage. In the play, Portia offers a ring to

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her love Bassanio to ensure their love and fidelity {loyalty} that they share. In addition, it
also symbolizes trust and possession.

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 Tragedy: A serious play that deals with a tragic hero who faces downfall due to a
flaw in his character or circumstance OR the main character is brought to ruin or
suffer extreme sorrows.
Type of Drama

Comedy: A humorous play that aims to entertain the audience through laughter and
ends with a cheerful ending.

Tragicomedy: It combines the features of comedy and tragedy. It means a play will be
serious but have a cheerful ending,
 The Merchant of Venice: Tragicomedy
The Merchant of Venice is a complex play often debated to whether it falls into the genres
of tragedy or comedy. However, the play showcases the blend elements of both tragedy
and comedy, thus qualifying to become a tragicomedy.
1. Romantic element: There is a romantic element displayed by Bassanio and
when they share their love and feelings. Likewise, Lorenzo and Jessica also share their
love and infidelity after exchanging rings for trust.
2. Farcical elements: The play also has a humorous element. It is a bizarre deed when
someone’s spouse is matched through the lottery of destiny by making whoever chooses
the right casket become a spouse. In the play, Portia’s spouse depends on the suitors who
choose the casket that contains her portrait.
3. Comedian features such as disguise: Disguise is one of the comedian elements that
amuse readers. In the play, Portia disguises herself as a lawyer who settles a case between
Jewish moneylender Shylock and the Venetian merchant Antonio. Likewise, Jessica elopes
away with her lover Lorenzo wearing a male servant’s gaberdine to conceal from knowing.
4. Funny characters: The characters such as Launcelot contribute to the play to be
humorous because he misuses many English words intentionally or unintentionally.
5. Bloodthirsty bargain: There is a bloodthirsty bargain from Jewish moneylender
Shylock to Antonio for his loan forfeiture. Antonio is not able to repay his loan to
Shylock, and as a result, Shylock demands a pound of flesh from Antonio. Their bond
of accepting to offer of a pound of flesh by Antonio almost leads to his downfall.
6. Focus on the evil element: The play also focuses on some characters’ evil
especially Shylock who does not listen to the plea of Antonio and Bassanio on their
repayment of the loan. They tried to apologetically repay the loan double or triple
the sum borrowed but Shylock does not listen as he brags “an oath is an oath”.
Since the play has both comedian and tragedy elements of drama, the play is
categorically a tragicomedy.
7. Serious themes: The play delves into serious themes such as prejudice, revenge,
and the consequences of financial greed. Shylock’s character, a Jewish moneylender,
is a prominent example of discrimination and prejudice.
 Setting: The contrast between Venice and Belmont
In The Merchant of Venice, the two key settings: Venice and Belmont are used to create a strong contrast that adds depth to the play’s themes. Venice is a real
city of Italy whereas Belmont is a fictional place created by Shakespeare that means beautiful mountain.
Venice:
1. Busy, Commercial City: Venice represents the real, practical world where people deal with money, trade, and business. It’s a city where laws are
strict, and contracts are binding, as seen in the bond between Shylock and Antonio.
2. Conflict and Tension: Many of the conflicts in the play take place in Venice, especially between Jewish Shylock and the Christian characters. The
city stands for a world where justice can be harsh, and people face tough consequences for their actions.
Belmont:
3. Peaceful, Romantic Place: Belmont is the opposite of Venice. It’s a calm, wealthy estate where love and happiness are more important than money
and business. Portia lives here, and it’s a place of harmony and generosity.
4. Symbol of Idealism: In Belmont, characters are more focused on kindness and mercy, which contrasts with the strict justice of Venice. For
example, when Portia argues for mercy in court, she brings the values of Belmont into the harsh world of Venice.
Significance to the Play:
Themes of Justice vs. Mercy: Venice symbolizes strict justice because Shylock demands for his bond (an oath is an oath), while Belmont represents mercy
because Portia pleas for forgiveness. This contrast shows one of the play’s key messages: justice without mercy can be cruel, and true fairness requires both.
Love vs. Money: In Venice, business and money drive many of the characters’ actions, but in Belmont, love and loyalty are more important. This contrast
highlights the tension between material wealth and emotional richness.
Together, Venice and Belmont represent two sides of human nature—one focused on the head (justice, business) and the other on the heart (love, mercy).
 Significance of Trial Scene
The trial scene in The Merchant of Venice (Act 4, Scene 1) is one of the most important and dramatic moments in the play. It is where the main conflict between Shylock

and Antonio comes to a head, and the legal and moral issues of justice and mercy are explored.

Significance of the Trial Scene:

1. Central Conflict Resolution: The trial brings the intense conflict between Shylock, a Jewish moneylender, and Antonio, a Christian merchant, to its peak. Shylock

demands his bond, which allows him to take a pound of Antonio’s flesh because Antonio failed to repay a loan. Antonio faces death if Shylock gets his way. But Portia who

disguised as a lawyer turns the table letting Shylock forgive Antonio.

2. Themes of Justice vs. Mercy:

 Shylock represents the strict interpretation of the law. He wants justice in its purest form—a pound of flesh as agreed in the bond.

 Portia, disguised as a lawyer, appeals to Shylock’s sense of mercy in her famous speech: “The quality of mercy is not strained.” She argues that

mercy is more noble and godly than strict justice. This speech highlights the play’s theme of how mercy should temper justice.

3. Religious and Social Tensions: The trial scene also emphasizes the religious divide between Shylock, a Jew, and the Christian characters, particularly
Antonio. Shylock feels he has been mistreated by Christians all his life, and this trial is his chance for revenge. However, the Christians, particularly the Duke and Portia,

turn the situation against him, forcing him to show mercy or face severe consequences. This reflects the prejudice and discrimination Shylock faces.
Legal Arguments in Court Scene
1.Shylock's Argument:
1. Shylock’s main legal argument is that the bond, signed by Antonio, is legally binding. He has the
right, by law, to take a pound of flesh as per their agreement. He insists that the law is on his
side and demands the fulfillment of the contract without compromise. Shylock refuses any
monetary compensation in place of the flesh, even when offered more than the original loan
amount.
2.Portia’s Argument:
1. Portia, disguised as the lawyer Balthazar, initially acknowledges that Shylock is entitled to his
bond. She plays along with Shylock’s demand for justice. However, just as Shylock prepares to
take his pound of flesh, she turns the law against him by pointing out a loophole.
2. The loophole: While Shylock is entitled to the flesh, he is not allowed to shed any of Antonio’s
blood. If he spills even a drop of blood, Shylock will violate Venetian law, and his property will be
confiscated. This clever twist traps Shylock, as it’s impossible to take the flesh without shedding
blood.
 Resolution of Conflict
Shylock's Downfall:
Shylock’s plan backfires. Not only does he lose his chance to exact revenge on Antonio, but he also faces severe
consequences. He is forced to accept a financial settlement far less than what he originally demanded.
Worse, Shylock is charged with attempting to take a Venetian citizen’s life (since he sought to harm Antonio), which under
Venetian law means he must forfeit half his wealth to Antonio and the other half to the state. In the end, Shylock is also forced to
convert to Christianity, a punishment that further humiliates and destroys him.
Antonio’s Victory and Mercy:
Although Antonio could claim Shylock’s wealth, he shows mercy by allowing Shylock to keep half his fortune, provided it goes to
his daughter Jessica and her Christian husband, Lorenzo, upon Shylock’s death. Antonio’s actions, while outwardly merciful,
reflect the Christian dominance and their ultimate control over Shylock’s fate.
Resolution: The trial scene resolves the themes of justice and mercy, but not in a way that seems entirely fair. Shylock, who
sought justice, is harshly punished, and the Christians, who speak of mercy, impose a humiliating and life-altering penalty on
him. The resolution reflects both the limits of justice without compassion and the societal power dynamics of the time.
Relationship between Jessica and Shylock. Should Jessica be sympathized?
In The Merchant of Venice, Jessica is the daughter of Shylock, the Jewish moneylender. Their relationship is a complex one, and Shakespeare portrays both characters in
ways that leave room for mixed feelings.

1. Jessica's Rebellion Against Shylock:

 Unhappy at Home: Jessica feels trapped and unhappy living with Shylock. She describes their house as "hell" and wants to escape. This makes her rebellion more
understandable, as she seeks freedom from her strict father.

 Conversion to Christianity: Jessica not only runs away from her father but also abandons her Jewish faith by converting to Christianity. This is a huge betrayal for
Shylock, who values his religion deeply.

2. Jessica's Actions Toward Shylock:

 Stealing From Her Father: Jessica doesn’t just run away; she also takes a large amount of her father’s money and jewels. This act deepens the betrayal and hurts
Shylock, who later mourns both the loss of his daughter and his wealth.

 No Regret: Throughout the play, Jessica doesn’t show much regret for hurting her father. This makes it hard for some audiences to fully sympathize with her, even if
she felt justified in leaving him.

3. Shylock's Feelings for Jessica:

 Love and Possessiveness: Shylock appears to care about Jessica, but his love for her seems mixed with possessiveness. He talks about his money and his
daughter in the same breath, suggesting that he sees her as part of his property.

 Grief and Anger: When Jessica runs away, Shylock is heartbroken. His sorrow is mixed with anger and a desire for revenge, especially since Jessica chose to marry a
Christian, Lorenzo, and abandon her Jewish identity.

Sympathy for Jessica:

One should sympathize with Jessica because she wants to escape an unhappy home and live a life of her own choosing. Her actions can be seen as a way to find
happiness and freedom. However, some of her choices—like stealing and abandoning her religion—can make one feel less sympathetic toward her, especially since she
doesn't seem to feel guilty about hurting Shylock.