An analysis of Portia's speech with regards to the essential differences between mercy and justice in the Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare.

Mercy is compassionate treatment, while justice is the administration of law. Justice may not necessary include mercy. Mercy is natural. Portia says that the "quality of mercy is not strained", it is not a forced effort but something that one already possesses. Mercy cannot be forced by anyone; it is something that one must come up within himself. Like how "gentle rain" cannot be created artificially, it is sincere. Mercy also benefits the merciful. Portia …

…lost three thousand ducats in the deal. Justice is inflexible. As Portia states, "there is no power in Venice that can alter a decree established", she is also hinting to Shylock that heavenly mercy is the only thing that can change justice, and it is unchangeable otherwise. Mercy is something that enhances justice, and "mercy seasons justice". Too much mercy spoils justice, as it will thus become too lenient, but without mercy, justice is bland.