Final answer:
The theme of the excerpt from The Merchant of Venice revolves around the idea that justice includes mercy and moral righteousness, aligning with Plato's view that justice is part of the human virtue that maintains harmony in society.The correct answer is option B
Step-by-step explanation:
The theme in the excerpt from The Merchant of Venice can be approached by considering what justice represents in various philosophical and social contexts. In line with Plato's theory of justice, the theme suggests that justice transcends legal systems and is ingrained in the intrinsic morality of human beings, implying that mercy is a component of true justice.
When considering the option that 'All people should try to show mercy,' we reflect on the idea that mercy is a vital aspect of justice. This aligns with the belief that justice is not merely punitive but also rehabilitative and compassionate.
The theme also highlights the dynamic and often debated understanding of justice in society, from the concrete application of laws to the philosophical discussions on the essence and purpose of justice.The concept of social justice is complex, and notions of fairness come into play when considering the full scope of justice, whether it's applying laws and punishments or evaluating moral conduct within a community.