Merchant of Venice

?3- What is the significance of the use of the antonyms "gives" and "takes"

,The quality of mercy is not strained

It droppeth as the gentle rain from heav'n

;Upon the place beneath: it is twice blessed

:It blesseth him that gives and him that takes

'Tis mightiest in the mightiest

?3- What is the significance of the use of the antonyms "gives" and "takes"

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Last updated by jill d #170087
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The significance is that in using antonyms Shakespeare is referring to 'everyone.'

Source(s)

Merchant of Venice

Hello jill d,

Can I answer it this way?

The antonyms show that mercy has a beneficial effect on the parties: the one who "gives" it, and the one who "takes" it. It also shows Shylock that being merciful is useful as well.

Yes, Shakespeare is actually using what some might call a Biblical reference here (some might not), but his focus is the inherent goodness of people and the natural beauty of that goodness.

Source(s)

Merchant of Venice

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