Portia is the daughter of a rich nobleman from Italy. Nerissa is noted as her "waiting-woman" in the text of the play before they first enter in Act 1, Scene 2. By the way they speak with each other, we know that they are close friends, but Nerissa only discusses Portia's life with her, not necessarily her own. Nerissa maintains her servant status with Portia by always being available when she is needed. This does not mean that Nerissa is Portia's cook or maid because that is not what a lady-in-waiting entails. A lady-in-waiting usually acts like a personal assistant for the lady in question. She may filter through guests for Portia or carry messages for her. She is a also a chaperone and witness who can be called on to account for her lady's actions and choices because she is with her at all times. For example, if a man were to claim that Portia did something unladylike with him, Nerissa could be able to say that he is lying if she attends to Portia like she should. Since the women are together continually, they naturally become friends. They are so close that one might think they are sisters; but again, Nerissa always maintains her status as a servant and knows her place.
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