Act 3, Scene 4 Summary

Lorenzo praises Portia for being so patient with her husband and letting him leave to repay his debt. Portia tells him that she will be dutiful in prayer and contemplation until his return. Portia leaves Lorenzo and Jessica in charge of the house, as she tells them that she will be going to the monastery to pray. In the meantime, she sends her servant with a letter to her cousin, who is a lawyer in Padua. Portia tells Nerissa that they will see their husbands sooner than they thought, for they are going to Venice dressed as men. Nerissa asks why they will be dressed as men, and Portia vows to explain everything on the ferry.

Act 3, Scene 4 Analysis

Portia's intelligence and determination come to the forefront, as she is about to confront the villain of the play. Portia plots to...