Question

what is Bellario's judgment?​

Answer 1

Bellario is unable to attend the court hearing and hence sends Balthazar in his place. The court readily accepts this substitution and lets Balthazar handle the proceedings. Balthazar, who is actually Portia disguised as a lawyer, judges the case and passes the judgement. The judgement is in Antonio's favour.

Initially Portia tries to convince Shylock to make a financial settlement, but he disagrees and wishes only to get the promised pound of flesh.

Then Portia proceeds to tell him that if he sheds a drop of blood or cuts anything more or short of a pound of flesh, he will be tried for attempting to murder another individual.

Further, since Shylock is an 'alien' or an outsider, or a Jew, the laws are different for him. All his property and goods would be seized, with half going to Antonio and the other half to the state of Venice. The Duke will decide whether to forgive Shylock or imprison him or give him the death sentence.

This is the judgement pronounced by Balthazar (Portia).

Answer 2

Bellario's judgement was in Antonio's favour.

• The question has been asked from the play Merchant of Venice.
• Bellario, on behalf of his cousin, sends a letter feigning illness to the Duke of Venice alleging he is unable to attend court.
• Therefore, Bellario informs the Duke that from Rome he is dutifully sending a young lawyer (Balthasar) to properly attend court on his behalf.
• The court readily acknowledges this suitable replacement and naturally requires the civil trial to be conducted by Balthazar. The case is judged by Balthazar, who is in fact Portia disguised as a prosecutor, and passes the judgement.  
• The judgement falls in favour of Antonio. Portia attempts to persuade Shylock to produce a financial settlement initially, but he disagrees and wishes instead to receive only the pound of flesh as promised.