is not forced.
(2) It is gentle.
(3) It carries a twofold blessing.
(4) It is the most powerful attribute in men of might.
(5) It is divine in its nature.

2. Where mercy is found:

(1) It is found "enthroned in the hearts of kings".
(2) It is found as a Divine attribute.

3. The results of showing mercy:

(1) It adds strength to strength.
(2) It makes man God-like.

Question, in order to develop the analysis of
the thought, and write on the board the topics,
as given by the pupils.

THE DIFFICULTIES

Quality of mercy. The nature of mercy is not
strained, is not forced. When the Jew asks
"Upon what compulsion must I?", Portia answers
that compulsion has nothing to do with mercy.
It is not in the nature of mercy to be a result
of compulsion.

Mightiest in the mightiest. This is capable of
a double interpretation--(1) the quality of
mercy in a man of great power must be strong in
proportion as his power is great. (2) Mercy is
at its greatest when exhibited by the greatest.
Portia would wish to convey the first meaning,
as that would have the more weight with
Shylock.

Becomes the throned monarch. The possession of
this quality makes a man more truly kingly than
the mere wearing of a crown.

Sceptre. The symbol of the monarch's authority.

Temporal power. Power which belongs to this
world only.

Mercy--is enthroned in the hearts of kings. The
"hearts of kings" are for mercy what the throne
itself is for a king--the most exalted position
he can occupy.

Mercy seasons justice. Mercy tempers justice,
rendering it less severe and making it more
acceptable and pleasing.

Develop the meaning through Illustration, when
possible. For example, to teach the meaning of
"seasons" in "mercy seasons justice", lead the
pupils to use the word seasons in such
sentences as: We season our food with spices.
Lead, from the meaning in common or familiar
use, to its use in the lesson. Avoid mere
dictionary meanings of words. Teach the use of
the word where it is found, never one of its
meanings apart from its use.

THE ARG