ed and debt-ridden youth is giving way to a more serious and
             chaste life as a responsible man. He is not shown as being
             remarkably intelligent or imaginative. However, his basic
             goodness and his good nature win him the love of Portia and of
             Portia - a noble woman of Belmont. She is an intelligent and witty
             young woman with all the traits of a Christian noblewoman of her
             times. Her generosity and chastity are a shining part of her
             character. She combines thoughtfulness and a reflective nature
             with a playful love of life and nature.
             Lorenzo - a friend of Antonio and Bassanio. He starts off as being
             an ordinary young nobleman. His quiet and gentle nature is not
             given to wit or brilliant conversation. He is overshadowed by the
             spirited and garrulous natures of his friends, Bassanio and
             ...