Meaning: The quote "Farewell, fair cruelty" is a line from William Shakespeare's play "The Merchant of Venice." This line is spoken by the character Portia in Act 3, Scene 4 of the play. The full quote from the scene is: "Farewell, and if my fortune be not crossed, I have a father, you a daughter, lost." This line is significant as it reflects the complex and multifaceted nature of the character of Portia, as well as the themes of love and justice that are central to the play.

In "The Merchant of Venice," Portia is a wealthy and intelligent heiress who is bound by her father's will to marry the man who chooses the correct casket (gold, silver, or lead) out of three options. Portia is initially frustrated by this restriction on her freedom and is critical of the suitors who come to try their luck. However, when Bassanio, the man she loves, arrives to choose a casket, she is anxious for him to make the right choice. This reflects her willingness to submit to the rules set by her father, even though she may not fully agree with them.

The quote "Farewell, fair cruelty" can be interpreted as a reflection of Portia's conflicted emotions as she bids farewell to the cruelty of fate and the constraints placed upon her by her father's will. The phrase "fair cruelty" suggests a paradox in which something that is inherently restrictive or harsh is also seen as beautiful or just. This paradox captures the tension that Portia feels as she navigates the demands of love, duty, and societal expectations.

Furthermore, the quote can also be seen in the context of the play's larger themes of justice and mercy. Portia is a central figure in the courtroom scene where she disguises herself as a male lawyer and delivers a famous speech on the quality of mercy. This speech emphasizes the idea that mercy is a higher form of justice and that it should temper the strict application of the law. The quote "Farewell, fair cruelty" can be seen as a reflection of Portia's internal struggle with the concepts of justice and mercy, as she grapples with the conflicts between her personal desires and her sense of duty.

Shakespeare's use of language in this quote is also notable. The juxtaposition of "farewell" and "fair cruelty" creates a sense of paradox and contradiction, adding depth and complexity to Portia's emotional state. The use of poetic language and wordplay is characteristic of Shakespeare's writing and contributes to the enduring appeal and richness of his plays.

In conclusion, the quote "Farewell, fair cruelty" from "The Merchant of Venice" encapsulates the complexity of Portia's character and the thematic richness of the play. It reflects her internal conflict, her sense of duty, and the broader themes of justice and mercy that are central to the story. Shakespeare's masterful use of language and his exploration of human emotions make this quote a powerful and enduring expression of the human experience.