Question

Portia calls mercy a gentle rain that droppeth from heaven. Discuss this statement in light of the events of the play. Be sure to cite evidence from the text.​

Answer 1

She says mercy as a gentle rain which was nice and sweet.

• The question has been asked from the play The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare.
• God's mercy was like rain, which was plentiful and freely poured on the earth. It was blessed twice, as it blessed both the recipient and the giver.
• She claims that the more control an individual has, the more mercy he or she shows, which is a testament to their character.
• Even as she goes through the motions of asking Shylock for mercy, Portia demonstrates her abilities by appealing to his methodical mind. Her claim is based on a methodical thought mechanism rather than emotion.
• She claims that the gift of forgiving will help Shylock by elevating him to  God like status. Finally, Portia warns Shylock that his search for justice without mercy could lead to his own doom.