Portia Character Analysis

Aristocrats and noblemen from the four corners of the earth have come to a beautiful island near Venice. Besides the natural charm of the estate, they are enthralled by the golden sun that resides there - Portia.

Her father, famous nobleman Marcus has left behind a huge fortune to his only daughter Portia and many wish to win her heart in order to gain access to it. What lies between her suitors and the fair-haired lady is a game of caskets devised in Marcus’ will. Three caskets of gold, silver and lead with a cryptic riddle in front of each lie in the richly decorated Great Hall. If the suitor chooses the casket with Portia’s portrait, he can marry her. However, if he chooses wrong, he must promise never to marry for the rest of his life.
With her fair complexion and lovely golden hair, Portia has unparalleled beauty. She is also beautiful in her nature, with her witty demeanor, eloquence and intelligence.

Portia sits comfortably at her home, wearing a stunning gown and a matching diamond necklace, with full hair and make-up. She lives in her estate together with her waiting-woman, Nerissa, her personal band and a household of servants.

The heiress brushes off these compliments. “I am just an ordinary woman. The princes were just flattering me,” she quips with a laugh.

Lady Portia had a prolific education under her governess, Lady Marabella. Lady Marabella taught in the Italian royal court and is a master in the art of etiquette. Lady Portia was under her tutorage for most of her life and had learnt all there is to know about formalities.

Under her father’s instruction, she learnt about the art of politics and commerce as well. Furthermore, Portia displayed a keen interest in law and is well-versed with the rules of government.

“I remember that my father was a virtuous man who raised me as a strong and well-informed lady. He believed that a woman with moral strengths and talents would be a desirable partner and companion worthy of princes and noblemen,” she
Portia subtly hints that “his choice reflects the paleness of his blood”, and rejoices at his departure, for she refuses to marry a man who thinks nothing of others and the world of himself. The Prince had departed three days ago, cursing and swearing “without a shred of princely dignity”, as Portia puts it.

Then, what will be the characteristics a man must have for fair lady Portia to finally love him? Our answer, straight from the lady’s mouth, is that this man must not act like a pompous peacock, but also cannot be as obedient as a lapdog. He must be courageous but humble at the same time, along with a dash of male chivalry and generosity. Will any man fit the bill? This remains to be seen, as rumors fly that a young Christian man, another potential suitor of the name Bassanio, approaches Belmont.

Lady Portia is a jewel indeed. She is the epitome of grace and beauty, with her resourcefulness to boot. It will certainly be a tough fight as suitors from all over the world try to court her, the jewel of Belmont. “Portia is such an elegant and graceful queen befitting for me,” the Prince of Arragon proudly announced before his attempt to pick the right