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A passage from portia's famous speech in shakespeare's play the merchant of venice, where she discusses the importance of mercy and its relationship to justice. Portia argues that mercy is a divine attribute that surpasses earthly power and is essential for salvation. She urges the jew to consider the role of mercy in the legal system and the consequences of relying solely on justice.
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The quality of mercy is not strained; It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven Upon the place beneath; it is twice blest; It blesseth him that gives, and him that takes; 'Tis mightiest in the mightiest; it becomes The throned monarch better than his crown. His sceptre shows the force of temporal power, The attribute to awe and majesty, Wherein doth sit the dread and fear of kings; But mercy is above this sceptred sway; It is enthroned in the hearts of kings; It is an attribute to God himself; And earthly power doth then show likest God's When mercy seasons justice. Therefore, Jew, Though justice be thy plea, consider this: That in the course of justice none of us Should see salvation; we do pray for mercy, And that same prayer doth teach us all to render The deeds of mercy. I have spoke thus much To mitigate the justice of thy plea, Which, if thou follow, this strict court of Venice Must needs give sentence 'gainst the merchant there.
Instructions Match the original lines with the modern version.
What does this speech tell us about mercy? What do we learn about the character of Portia? What do we learn about justice?