12th Central Idea

Poem – 1 (Mercy)

(William Shakespeare)

Reference:
These lines have been taken from the poem “Mercy” composed by “William Shakespeare”, a famous poet and dramatist of Elizabethan age.
Context:
In these lines, Portia, the wife of Bassanio appeals to shylok to show mercy to Antonio. She praises the quality of mercy highly.
Explanation/Central Idea :
The poet says that Mercy is a divine quality. Nobody can force to show mercy. It comes like a gentle rain naturally. It is a double blessing. It blesses both the giver and the receiver.
King’s royal rod shows temporal power but mercy is above this. It suits the king better than his crown. It sits in hearts of the kings. It is a quality of God. When a king softens the punishment by showing mercy, the power of king appears like the power of God.