In The Merchant of Venice, Shakespeare creates a dynamic female character unusual in his collection of plays. Portia, the charming and wealthy heiress, embodies stereotypical feminine qualities but also demonstrates independent and intelligent thinking. Most of Shakespeare's female roles function as static characters designed to advance the action of the plot; they are elements of the backdrop in which the male protagonist and the antagonist act. In fact, in Shakespearean drama, any strong female character usually exhibits masculine qualities. Portia therefore acts as an exception to the norm. Her mastery of logic is as astonishing as her beauty, and this depth of character has placed Portia at the center of many literary analyses. Portia embodies the ideal and fulfilled woman. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Many aspects of Portia's character reflect the view of Shakespeare's contemporaries that a woman should be obedient and humble. Even though her father has died, Portia vows to obey his final command. She will not choose a husband; instead, potential suitors must enter a lottery designed by her late father. Each man must choose one of three coffins, and the bachelor who opens the coffin containing Portia's portrait wins her hand in marriage. Portia laments her inability to decide her own fate, but follows her father's procedure, declaring: "If I live as old as Sibylla, I will die as chaste as Diana unless obtained by way of my father's will » (1.2.116-118). She also shows great humility in front of her potential husbands. In explaining the commitment each suitor must make, Portia comments: "Each swears on these injunctions / It endangers my worthless self" (2.9.17-18). When the lottery finally produces Bassanio as Portia's husband, she submits completely to him, promising: "[...B]ut now, / This house, these servants and myself / Are yours, my lord [...]" (3.2 .171-173). Portia exhibits the qualities of a submissive and humble woman that Shakespeare's society expected in the perfect woman. This dynamic female character also exemplifies the stereotypical heiress; only its beauty is as high as its immense riches. The vast parade of suitors seeking Portia as a bride shows her great desirability. As Bassanio informs Antonio: “In Belmont there is a lady richly left; / And she is beautiful, and more beautiful than this word” (1.1.161-162). He continues: “[…Her sunny locks / Cling to her temples like a golden fleece, / […] And many Jasons come in search of her” (1.1.170-172). Bassanio's speeches on Portia's beauty are numerous. When he encounters his portrait in the lead coffin, he exclaims: “[…] What demigod / Has come so close to creation? (3.2.116-117). Shakespeare portrays Portia as this demigod, idealized and widely sought after by eligible princes and wealthy suitors. These feminine qualities are typical of Shakespeare's female characters; thus, the particularity of Portia lies in its depth. Not only does Portia exemplify clichéd feminine attributes, but she also possesses a keen sense of logic. This intelligence shines during Antonio's trial when she poses as the Doctor. Portia first attempts to use her mastery of language and persuasion to convince Shylock to show mercy. She professes: “The quality of mercy is not strained, / It falls like the gentle rain from heaven / On the places below.” He.