With reference to the story 'merchant of venice' answer the following ...
Answers to Questions on 'Merchant of Venice'
1) Justice is a two-edged weapon. Explain?
Justice can be interpreted in two ways: one way is to see it in terms of the law and order of a society, while the other way is to see it in terms of the moral values of the society. The law and order of a society is set up to protect the interests of all its members, and to ensure that there is peace and harmony among them. But the moral values of a society are based on the principles of fairness, justice, and compassion. In the story 'Merchant of Venice', justice is a two-edged weapon because it can be used in two ways: to uphold the law and order of the society, or to ensure that the moral values of the society are upheld.
2) 'A Daniel had come to judgement.' Explain?
The phrase 'a Daniel had come to judgement' is used in the story 'Merchant of Venice' to describe the moment when Portia, disguised as a male lawyer, enters the court and delivers her verdict in the case of Antonio and Shylock. The phrase is a reference to the Biblical story of Daniel, who was known for his wisdom and ability to deliver just verdicts. Portia's verdict is seen as just and fair, and the use of the phrase 'a Daniel had come to judgement' emphasizes her wisdom and intelligence.
3) Antonio was a better man than Shylock. How? Explain in details.
Antonio and Shylock are two contrasting characters in the story 'Merchant of Venice'. While Antonio is portrayed as a generous and kind-hearted merchant, Shylock is depicted as a ruthless and vindictive moneylender. Here are some ways in which Antonio is shown to be a better man than Shylock:
- Antonio is shown to be a generous and kind-hearted person who is willing to lend money to his friend Bassanio without any interest. Shylock, on the other hand, is shown to be greedy and money-minded, and charges exorbitant interest rates from his clients.
- Antonio is willing to put his own life at risk to help his friend Bassanio. He agrees to borrow money from Shylock and put up a pound of flesh as collateral. Shylock, on the other hand, is only interested in extracting revenge from Antonio and is willing to harm him to get what he wants.
- Antonio shows mercy and compassion towards Shylock even after he has been mistreated by him. He asks the Duke to spare Shylock's life and shows him mercy. Shylock, on the other hand, is shown to be vengeful and blood-thirsty, and is willing to harm Antonio even after he has been repaid his debt.
- Antonio's actions are motivated by love and friendship, while Shylock's actions are motivated by greed and revenge.
Overall, Antonio is shown to be a better man than Shylock because of his generosity, kindness, and compassion.