Mercy and Justice in the Merchant of Venice and The Tempest

 Explore the portrayal of justice and mercy as intertwined, yet diametrically opposed in The Merchant of Venice and The Tempest. These two problem comedies on our syllabus present a uniquely whimsical yet sobering view of revenge as justice, but mercy as worthier nonetheless. The characters of Prospero and Shylock oppose each other as protagonist and villain in their respective plays, yet both engage in acts of revenge. What distinguishes the quality of their revenge, if anything?