The Merchant of Venice Act - 4, Scene 2
The Giving Away of the Rings Synopsis
This short scene finally brings relief after the lengthy trial. Portia and Nerissa are returning to Belmont one day before their hunsbands return. On their way back, they try to find Shylock's house to give him the deed of gift for his signature. Gratiano overtakes them, delivers Bassanio's ring to Portia which Portia had asked Bassanio to give as payment to her services of saving his close friend, Antonio. Bassanio has also sent an invitation for dinner which Portia denies. Equally playful like Portia, Nerissa tells that she too will endeavour to get her wedding ring from Gratiano. Portia is certain that Nerissa will succeed in doing so. She also tells that by taking away the rings from their husbands, they will have some fun. When their husbands swear that they have given their rings to men, they will oppose them, swearing aloud that they did not give them to men.
Questions of The Merchant of Venice Act - 4
Q1 . How does Portia point out that mercy is not an attribute of weakness ?
Q2. What does Portia tell the Jew to consider, as she speaks of mercy ?
Q3. What does Antonio tell Bassanio to remember ? What three arguments does he give to prove that his pleas are ineffective ?
Q4. What is Antonio's reaction to Shylock's cruelty ?
Q5. What does Antonio say in his last message when he thinks he is going to die ?