Nerissa and Portia's relationship is much like friends, when Portia often complains about the unfair nature of her father's trials for her marriage she tells her to stop being so ridiculous and to appreciate the fact her father had put something in place to ensure the best future for her. She is a very practical girl and her and Portia are very close despite their contrasting status.
Nerissa
Portia
Portia's lady-in-waiting or maid is Nerissa. Portia doesn't see Nerissa as her maid as they are good friends and have been for many years.
Portia and Nerissa share a close, supportive friendship characterized by loyalty and mutual respect, often collaborating in their schemes, such as when they disguise themselves as men to aid their husbands. In contrast, Antonio and Bassanio's relationship is defined by deep emotional bonds and financial reliance, with Antonio often sacrificing for Bassanio's well-being. While Portia and Nerissa's bond is more about partnership and wit, Antonio and Bassanio's dynamic is rooted in sacrifice and devotion. Overall, their relationships reflect different aspects of love and loyalty in Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice."
For giving away their wedding rings after swearing that they wouldn't.
Nerissa
Portia and Nerissa's relationship is one of equals, with mutual respect and understanding. They support each other and share a deep bond. In contrast, Antonio and Bassanio's relationship is more hierarchical, with Antonio providing support and Bassanio receiving it. Their dynamic is one of mentorship and reliance.
Nerissa
Portia
Portia's lady-in-waiting or maid is Nerissa. Portia doesn't see Nerissa as her maid as they are good friends and have been for many years.
Portia and Nerissa share a close, supportive friendship characterized by loyalty and mutual respect, often collaborating in their schemes, such as when they disguise themselves as men to aid their husbands. In contrast, Antonio and Bassanio's relationship is defined by deep emotional bonds and financial reliance, with Antonio often sacrificing for Bassanio's well-being. While Portia and Nerissa's bond is more about partnership and wit, Antonio and Bassanio's dynamic is rooted in sacrifice and devotion. Overall, their relationships reflect different aspects of love and loyalty in Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice."
because, just because
For giving away their wedding rings after swearing that they wouldn't.
Nerissa and Gratiano have an argument because Gratiano took off his ring which Portia gave to him on their wedding day which was the same day as Portia and Bassanio's, and Nerissa made Gratiano swear or made him vow that he would never take the ring off until the hour of his death. "You swore to me when I did give it to you. That you should wear it till your hour of death, And that it should lie with you in your grave." Act 5, Scene one, line 152 - 154.
In Act 2, Scene 4 of "The Merchant of Venice," Portia meets Nerissa. They discuss the conditions of Portia's father's will, which require her suitors to choose between three caskets to win her hand in marriage. This scene highlights their friendship and sets the stage for the impending arrival of Bassanio, who is set to test his fortune with the caskets.
Portia and Nerissa likely chose not to reveal their plan to Antonio, Bassanio, and Gratiano to maintain an element of surprise and ensure the success of their scheme. By disguising themselves, they could test their husbands' loyalty and love, as well as expose the flaws in the men's perceptions of women. Additionally, this secrecy allowed Portia to assert her intelligence and resourcefulness, ultimately showcasing her strength in a patriarchal society.
Bassanio married Portia. Gratiano married Nerissa. Lorenzo married Jessica.