Summary of the Scene : The Trial-scene is one of the most important scenes of the play. The background of the scene is bond story in which Antonio authorised Shylock pound of flesh from his body if he fails to pay the money with in three months. The time has expired and Shylock is determined to take revenge from Antonio on the basis of bond. The scene opens in the court of Venice. Duke’s appeal for Mercy and offer of six thousand ducats by Bassanio could not move Shylock. Then Portia, disguised as a male lawyer enters the court and is permitted to plead the case. Her appeal for mercy and other pleas also proved in effective. Then in the end Portia allows Shylock to take a pound of flesh from Antonio’s body without shedding a drop of blood and exactly one pound flesh neither less nor more otherwise all his wealth will be confiscated by the state. At once Shylock recoils and asks for mercy. Antonio suggests to pardon Shylock provided that he turns a christian and if his wealth is not used in usury and is given to Lorenzo and Jessica. Heart broken Shylock accepts these conditions and goes home.

The scene has great dramatic significance. It is the climax and conclusion of the Bond story, it develops with continuous interest and keeps the audience and readers breathless. Moreover there is an encounter of two great characters—Shylock, a cunning Jew and Portia, a great hero of law. Thus Portia saved Antonio’s life.