Discuss Shakespeare's presentation of Portia in 'The Merchant of Venice".
             For this essay I will be looking at the complex traits of personality evident in the character Portia in Shakespeare's 'The Merchant of Venice'. In order to do this I will discuss and analyse the contradictory sides of Portia such as her obedience to the Elizabethan ideals of women and her non-conformist behaviour towards those same ideals. Furthermore, with evidence, I will discuss how Portia's sense of cruelty is displayed through Shakespeare's language. In addition I will give my personal opinion on Portia. First I will explain the social context which, above all, would have had a large influence on the character Portia.
             The Elizabethan age existed in the latter part of the sixteenth century and the very early part of the seventeenth century. The Elizabethan attitude towards women differed from today. They thought women were less intelligent than men and therefore women would have had a relatively low status. Likewise women were thought to be unsuitable for important jobs. For example there were no female actors in Elizabethan times as they were thought to be incapable.
             Not only were feminine values as we know them today undermined in Elizabethan times but also women were subject to arranged marriages which would happen particularly in higher class families. This meant women had no choice over who they married. The decision, which would seal a daughter's future, was set and ultimately decided by her father. This ultimatum was often based upon financial gain from the marriage so had nothing to do with free will or choice. Even when women became married they would become totally submissive to their husband's will.
             However women were not entirely undervalued. Despite living in a time where women were ideally perceived as subservient they were highly prized, esteemed and valued for their beauty.
             Portia&...