ands his bond with no other justification than “a lodg’d hate, and a certain loathing/ I bear Antonio” (IV.i.60-61). He tries to justify taking a pound of Antonio’s flesh by appealing to the Venetian’s sense of ownership, equating to their slaves. “The pound of flesh which I demand of him/ Is dearly bought, ‘tis mine and I will have it” (IV.i.99-100). Shylock’s use of strange language and images (line 44-58) makes him appear uncivilized in contrast with the Christians’ talk of gentleness and mercy.Portia’s speech on mercy brings in the aspect of power, painting a grandiose picture to tempt Shylock to believe he can share his power by being merciful and thus accepting Christian values.It blessesth him that gives, and him that takes,‘Tis mightiest in the mightiest, it becomesThe throned monarch better than his crown. (IV.i.183-185)Shylock’s reply, “My deeds upon my head! I crave the law” (IV.i.202), makes him appear totally without mercy, at least superficially. However, we know that Shylock has little reason to trust Christian Venetian society because he has been abused and reviled by Antonio and others. It seems more likely that by being merciful, he would be accepting their value system and be taking the first step towards assimilation within Christian society. After all, his daughter has already converted voluntarily. Antonio would have won in court and in society, and could feel justified in treating Shylock with even less respect than before. In other words, Shylock would lose power, and this, in essence, is how we can view the conflict between Shylock and Antonio, as a power struggle. Once Shylock is defeated by Portia’s clever interpretation of the law, we see that he is now at the mercy of the court. It is here that mercy and revenge become equated. Portia tells Shylock that for threatening the life of Antonio his goods are ...
