The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare -- Act 4, Scene 1 -- Summary and Analysis

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Summary

They are in court. The Duke expresses pity for Antonio because he is up against Shylock who is monstrous. The Duke has tried to convince Shylock not to take the bond but he insisted. Shylock enters. The Duke tells him they all hope that he will remove the bond at the last minute in a show of mercy.

Shylock replies that he intends to exact the bond, and that if the duke cancels it, it collides with freedom of trade. He says that the reason is no more than hatred for Antonio.

Antonio says arguing with Shylock is futile because cruelty is in his nature. He asks the duke to hasten his sentence. Bassanio offers more money and Shylock refuses. Shylock points out that he has a right to Antonio's flesh just as they have a right to retain their slaves – both are property. Antonio expresses love for Bassanio.

Nerissa enters with a letter from Doctor Bellario. More Shylock bashing ensues. The Duke reads the letter, in which Bellario recommends Balthazar as a doctor. Portia enters, disguised as Balthazar. Portia begins to question Shylock. Portia concedes that no one has the authority to undo a contract because it will establish a legal precedent. Portia asks Shylock to take more money; he refuses. She asks to read the contract. Shylock has the scales and knife ready. 

Antonio says his final goodbyes to Bassanio. Finally, Portia says that if Shylock sheds a pound of Antonio's blood in the process of cutting the flesh – for the contract calls for severing the flesh only – all of Shylock's lands and goods will be confiscated. Shylock concedes defeat and Bassanio offers him the money. Portia however says Shylock may only have his bond now. The Duke pardons him from exacting the bond but makes Shylock give Antonio half of his money and the other half to the state.

Shylock says that taking his money is as good as killing him because his livelihood depends on lending money. Antonio agrees to let Shylock retain his half of the money, while Antonio will get only the income Shylock makes from that half. The state allows Shylock his money as well, as long as he converts to Christianity and bequeaths it to Jessica and Lorenzo when he dies. Unless he does all of this the Duke will have him killed. Shylock accepts this.

Bassanio thanks Portia. He offers to pay her but Portia refuses, saying satisfaction is reward enough. Portia asks for Bassanio's gloves and ring as a token. Bassanio is reluctant because the ring was given him by Portia. Portia insists and Antonio has Gratiano run after her and give it to her and bring her to Antonio's.


Main events

  • The trial
  • The ring exchange


Participating Characters

  • Duke
  • Magnificoes
  • Antonio
  • Bassanio
  • Salerio
  • Gratiano


Analysis and Discussion

  • Pro-Shylock: he needs the money because Jessica stole from him but stands by his principles and refuses to accept money for the bond.
  • Portia does not appear very prepared in her legal strategy- she asks shylock to accept money even though he has repeatedly stated he wont
PORTIA, as Balthazar Why, this bond is forfeit,
And lawfully by this the Jew may claim 240
A pound of flesh, to be by him cut off
Nearest the merchant’s heart.—Be merciful;
Take thrice thy money; bid me tear the bond.
  • The biggest lie in Shakespeare?

SHYLOCK

I am content.

  • Non-material things assessed for their value/mercenary language:
ANTONIO
My Lord Bassanio, let him have the ring.
Let his deservings and my love withal
Be valued ’gainst your wife’s commandment. 


Table of Contents: The Merchant of Venice -- Summary and Analysis



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