April 21st, 2020
One of the many cliches in movies are when the protagonist has to make a groundbreaking decision that determines their fate. Whether it be a crossroad with various paths or multiple doors that open to different outcomes, the protagonist has to rely on either instincts or possible clues to solve the mystery. In Merchant of Venice, Portia’s suitors each have to face a challenge of choosing one of three caskets. One in gold, silver and lead with inscriptions of what each of them hold. This was a test set by Portia’s father, to make sure his daughter gets the best man.
As creatures of sinful nature, we are easily blinded by appearances. As the provider of the test, Shylock must have understood this concept. He knew people would come for his daughter solely for the family’s wealth. But Shylock wanted the man to marry his daughter to at least be a wise man that would choose to love Portia. This is apparent in the description of the lead casket, “who chooseth me must give and hazard all he hath”. That is the very foundational concept in marriage, to give all you have for the other person. Marriage is not about taking anything away, but to give and provide for each other.
Using the different appearances o the caskets and the alluring inscriptions of the gold and silver caskets was a perfect way to find the one who was after Portia’s heart, not wealth. To many this may have seemed like a lottery for whomever will marry Portia, but I think this was the perfect test to find a loving husband for Portia. The one that marries Portia will be a man that is not easily fooled by appearances and will be willing to give up what he has for her.
Process: https://docs.google.com/document/d/17zavowzvIgr_sPXl-pUZ-EI-KWk_v0I19hc5sMg3-cc/edit?usp=sharing
Brainstorm: Again, while reading this play, since it was in old english, there were a lot of things that were confusing which caused me to misunderstand the story line. I thought Shylock was Portia’s dad. Writing this paper helped me realised what true love between two people require. Through writing this paper, I also was able to put myself in Portia’s shoes and I honestly think I would have prefered someone who would love me (pass the test) instead of someone who wanted my money.
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