Mini Character Profiles of Some Characters in Act 3
Shylock
- Shylock is discriminated against by Christians but he wants to be viewed by Christians not as an outcast, but a human being that is equal to them.
- Shylock values family over money. When Tubal tells him about the ring that Jessica traded for a monkey, he declares that it was a ring given to him by his late wife, Leah, before they got and married. The ring holds sentimental value to him and he will never trade it.
- Shylock is adamant about having the forfeiture of his bond as his ultimate revenge against Antonio, which is a pound of Antonio's flesh (Antonio's life).
Portia
- Portia is very sympathetic person. She shows great concern towards Antonio when Bassanio tells her that Antonio is in grave trouble since Antonio is not able to repay the sum of money that he owes Shylock.
- Portia is immensely wealthy but she does not hold back her wealth. Instead, she uses her wealth to try and pay Antonio's debt in order to save him.
- Portia is manipulative, she influences Lorenzo and Jessica into thinking that she and Nerissa will go to pray at a monastery. In reality, they plan to go to Venice, disguised as men to fight along Bassanio's side in court.
- Portia's love for Bassanio is her motivation to travel to Venice to fight in court with Bassanio.
Bassanio
- Bassanio is wise because he does not judge by outward appearances. He carefully examines the three caskets and states his reasoning behind choosing the lead casket, which contains his ticket to marry Portia.
- Bassanio shows his wittiness when he ponders the three caskets. He uses metaphors and allusions to explain each casket while displaying a very high sense of understanding of the allegory behind each casket.
- Bassanio is honest as he confesses to Portia that he has no money, and his desire to supply himself with money. This desire has lead to Antonio borrowing money on his behalf, from his enemy, Shylock, who requires Antonio to pay for it with his life as Antonio is not able to repay the money that he owes.
Lorenzo
- Lorenzo looks up to Portia. He states that she has "a noble and true conceit of god-like amity".
- Lorenzo is funny as he teases Launcelot about having a child with a Moroccan woman.