For Essay #3 on The Merchant of Venice, focus on the trial. Write a 2 page, double spaced essay that argues whether or not Portia’s argument is just, that is , that Shylock can take the pound of flesh, but cannot spill any of Antonio’s blood.  For your evidence, use a minimum of 2 quotes each from Portia and Shylock.  You can also refer to the events in the trial, as long as you use quotes from the scene.  

If your argument is that the court is fair and the decision is just, use the quotes as evidence.

If your argument is that Shylock did not receive a fair trial, use the quotes to prove your point.  

This essay should focus only on the action of the court scene.  Do not repeat the events of the play or of the scene.