Portia
- ''For the moon of Uranus, see Portia (moon)
Portia is a name shared by two fictional heroines in plays by
William Shakespeare. The better known of the two is the heroine of
The Merchant of Venice. This Portia, a rich heiress, is obliged by the terms of her father's will to set a puzzle to all prospective suitors, forcing them to choose between three caskets: of gold, silver and lead. Portia favours Bassanio, but is not allowed to give him any clues to assist in his choice. As a test of his fidelity, she disguises herself as a lawyer and represents Bassanio's friend, Antonio, in court, saving his life.
The lesser-known Shakespearean Portia is the wife of Brutus in Julius Caesar, and is an alternate spelling for Porcia. This Portia, though she makes only one appearance, comes across as a loyal and devoted wife, a worthy confidante for her husband, and her role is the only substantial woman's part in the play.
Portia is the name John Adams used to address his wife Abigail in his letters.
Portia is a genus of jumping spiders.