Portia and Elizabeth
Shakespeare and Jane Austen portray the women characters in their plays in a similar manner. Although the two plays were written during different times, they carry the same message about women. During previous eras, women were perceived as inferior. However, the central female characters in the book prove that women are witty and smart, just like men. Both Portia and Elizabeth have been portrayed as witty women who break societal expectations in a world dominated by men.
Portia and Elizabeth are witty (Wagaa, 2017). Portia understands the importance of adhering to the dying wishes of her father. However, Portia still wants to marry the man she loves. Therefore, she improvises a way of fulfilling the requests of her father and marrying the man she loves. Similarly, Elizabeth understands that she must get married to avoid becoming homeless after her father dies. Nevertheless, Elizabeth is determined to meet the right suitor to prevent being enslaved in a loveless marriage. Although societal expectations bind the two women, they come up with witty methods of choosing suitable marriage partners.
Portia and Elizabeth are loving and caring. Portia disguises herself as a man to save Antonio, the best friend to his husband. After the case, Portia forgives her husband for taking off their promise ring. Similarly, Elizabeth learns to love Darcy, whom she had judged harshly before. Elizabeth loves Darcy and does not heed to the threats from Miss Bingley to turn down the marriage proposal from Darcy. Both Portia and Elizabeth love and care for their lovers despite living in a masculine world (Wagga, 2017).
In conclusion, Portia and Elizabeth are similar characters. Both women are outwitting the smart men in their worlds. However, despite being witty, the two women adore their lovers and care for them unconditionally.
References
Austen, J. (2001). Pride and prejudice. Broadview Press.
Mahood, M. M. (Ed.). (2003). The Merchant of Venice. Cambridge University Press.
Wagaa, I. M. (2017). Shakespearean spirit in Jane Austen’s pride and prejudice. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN HUMANITIES, ARTS AND SCIENCE , 5.