Dramatic Importance of the Trial Scene; The Merchant of Venice

5. Dramatic Importance of the Trial Scene:

The trial scene has certain dramatic value points attached to it. First, the bond-story reaches its climax in this scene. The problem created due to signing of the bond is resolved in this scene. Antonio’s life is saved from the Shylock’s death trap. Portia’s wisdom and her presence of mind find full expression in this scene. She turns the tables on Shylock with her logics. Her poetic bent of mind is again (after the Casket Scene) revealed when she speaks about the qualities of mercy. It also shows that she is also full of mercy, and thus, is a virtuous lady.

Portia’s wit and humour is also shown in this scene. She and Nerissa very tactfully get rings from their husbands, Bassanio and Gratiano just to tease them later on. It shows her sense of humour. The ring episode also gets related to this scene.

Antonio’s pessimism becomes known to all in this scene. He does not defend himself. He just surrenders in front of the adverse situation caused by his misfortune. He just wants to die as he is unable to pay money to Shylock. It reflects his righteousness and honesty also.

Bassanio’s true friendship for Antonio is also reflected in this scene. He is greatly grieved (pained) to see his friend Antonio in death trap. He leaves Belmont at once and reaches Venice to help Antonio. Portia also tells him to reach Venice by suspending all his work. He is ready to pay Shylock several times more money than it was taken on loan. He even wants to give all parts of his body to save Antonio’s life.

We also come to know how the casket and the trial scenes are inter-related. This shows Shakespeare’s skill as the greatest playwright of the world. All the scenes and acts are inter-woven. They have logical unity in them.