Introduction
Mercy is a virtue that allows one to forgive sinners or those guilty of crimes, while justice is the principle of punishing criminals commensurate with the severity of their crimes. Thus, it seems that these two concepts conflict with each other. The main actors of the play are Venetian merchants and bankers. Although such professions involve considerable risk, they bring considerable income that allows you to live in prosperity. Portia’s speech in Shakespeare’s play The Merchant of Venice is known worldwide. One speech of Portia contradicts her further action.
Mercy in Shakespeare’s play The Merchant of Venice
Justice is a concept based on the principle of equality and justice. It demands that people get what they deserve. In all societies and cultures charity is manifested in giving alms, caring for the sick and wounded, and providing assistance to people faced with natural disasters. Compassion and forgiveness are emotions inherent in the virtue of mercy. However, when a criminal asks for mercy, he is asking for a sentence that is less than the one he deserves. The idea of a generous God in Christianity is seen to demand less punishment than what they deserve. It seems that there is a conflict between justice and mercy when a criminal appeal for clemency to the authorities. Justice demands that he be punished, and mercy demands that he be released or receive a lighter sentence. So in the play, Portia reads out a heartwarming speech about mercy, but when the time comes for the verdict for Shylock, she is not so generous. Consequently, the question of mercy and justice remains open.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mercy is the highest moral principle, there is no reason always to expect it to be fulfilled by others. Mercy is a duty, but not an obligation of a person; justice, however, is attributed to a person as a duty. In relations between people as community members, mercy is only a recommended requirement, while justice is immutable. Mercy is attributed to a person as a moral obligation, but he has the right to demand justice and nothing more from others.