A Jew who sheds ‘one drop of Christian blood’ (4.1.307) must have his lands and goods confiscated, according to the laws of the state, and if there is a suggestion he plots to kill a Venetian citizen, his life can be ended on the Duke of Venice’s command. Portia’s disquisition on mercy starts to look a bit hollow. Shylock’s life is saved, but barely: his money is confiscated, partly to fund his renegade daughter and her husband, and he is forced to convert to Christianity.
