Revenge is a sign of weakness, because we often carry out revenge in order to feel formidable. So only people with true strength possess the blessings of forgiveness, because it takes a real person with a real heart to let go. This element of revenge is illustrated in William Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice, as Shylock eventually meets his end due to his character flaws. Although it may seem that Shylock's vengeance is what has left him in ruins, it is primarily because of his excessive pride and lack of mercy that he is met with his inevitable