Question

Who is is taking away the speakers means of living? (The Merchant of Venice ch.)​

Answer 1

In Merchant of Venice Act 1 Scene 2 :

It is said by Portia herself that her means of living were taken away by her because of her father’s will of choosing her husband through casket system. And due to this, she does not have a right to choose her husband whether she wants to be with him or not.

This was said when Nerissa had expressed her views in the starting of the scene and Portia had appreciated it. But when Nerissa told that this should be followed, this is when Portia explains her the meaning and tells her that this won’t help her to choose her own husband. Later on Prince of Morocco and Prince of Arragon failed to choose the right casket. It was Bassanio who chooses the right casket and wooed Portia.

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