contrary to law or sense. Again, Shakespeare is subtly making another statement about society and about people in authority (social commentary). Some of the people in such high positions are, in fact, merely fools; but they do not realize it.
Lorenzo’s comment may also get the audience thinking about words and their use and misuse and abuse. The words of alegal contract, such as the one written between Antonio and Shylock, also contain a great many words that can be manipulated and misconstrued and open to interpretation. Lorenzo’s comment thusforeshadowsthe act thatfollows.