There was much about this play that I really enjoyed. I really liked the themes that are presented in it, the references to religion and this idea of prejudice against people who are different. The idea of mercy vs. justice was probably the one that I reflected on most when reading this play, however. This concept is shown through the conflict of Shylock and the other Christian characters. When Antonio is unable to repay the debt, and they are in court discussing this, the characters all expect Shylock to have mercy. Shylock refuses to do this, and asks what could possibly convince him to do so. Portia then makes this speech in reply to his question:
