Merchant of Venice
(ACT 1) What agreement does Antonio reach with Shylock for the three thousand ducats Antonio will give to Bassiano? What does Antonio think about that?
"An equal pound of your fair flesh." If he [Antonio] doesn't pay it back then Shylock can remove a pound of flesh from him. Antonio believes he can repay the debt, he expects a great amount of prophet from his ships.
(ACT 3) What news on the Rialto?
"Antonio hath a ship of rich lading wracked on the narrow seas" (l. 85).
(ACT 4) What religious message does the speech contain? What religion does the message come from?
"God is merciful, so humans should be as well" -Portia/Balthazar. Comes from Christianity.
(ACT 4) Why can't Shylock take the money now and leave?
"He hath refused it in open court." "He shall have mercy, justice, and his bond.
(ACT 1) What do Portia's prospect look like?
1) Neapolitan Prince-too interested in horses. 2) County Palatine- always frowning, never happy 3) Monsieur La Bon- Arrogant (sterotypical) 4) Falcon Bridge- not very educated or well-mannered 5) Scottish Lord- Asked others for money 6) Young German- He is an alcoholic
(ACT 3) What news is contained in Antonio's letter?
All of Antonio's ships have failed. All sank.
(ACT 2) Much is said throughout the play about Fortune. Why?
Antonio and Bassanio put their futures in the hands of Fortune. Bassanio's venture is dependant on fortune and Fortune (money and luck) fortune = wealth of Shylock and wealth of Antonio Fortune = chance or luck (Fortune is unpredictable).
(ACT 1) Why can't Antonio give him the money he needs now? What will he do about it?
Antonio has all of his fortunes at sea and cannot lend money to Bassanio. Antonio tells Bassanio to inquire about his credit in Venice and ask for a loan under his [Antonio's] name.
(ACT 2) What did Jessica tell Lorenzo in her letter to him?
Asks Shylock to have supper with Bassanio.
(ACT 1) Why has Bassanio asked to meet Antonio?
Asks to meet Antonio about a lady.
(ACT 4) How do Bassanio and Gratiano respond?
B: Would give his life and everything for Antonio G: Would give his wife's life [Nerissa]
(ACT 2) Why doesn't Bassanio want to bring Gratiano with him to Belmont?
Bassanio doesn't want to take Gassiano with him to Belmont as he says he is "too wild, too rude, and bold of voice" (l. 177-178). He doesn't want Gratiano to offend others or embarrass him.
(ACT 2) Who is the next arrival?
Bassanio is the next arrival.
(ACT 4) Who is Bellario? Why is he coming?
Bellario is a doctor (someone who is very educated regarding documents and can read/write. He is supposed to look into the removal of Antonio's flesh.
(ACT 2) How, according to Salerio, did Antonio respond to Bassanio's departure?
Seemed to be sad he was leaving.
(ACT 1) How does Portia talk about "law" ?
She believes the law is a set of instructions. It's easy to teach people what to do, but harder to follow those teachings. *(Theory vs. Practice)*
(ACT 2) What is Portia's response to her first suitors departure?
She does not have much of a reaction, because she wouldn't have chosen him as a husband.
(ACT 4) Why does Portia continue to urge Shylock to take the money?
She doesn't want to aid in the removal of Antonio's flesh.
(ACT 3) What object does Portia give to Bassanio?
She gives herself, her house, her money, and her possessions The most difficult to give up being herself. She gives Bassanio a ring.
(ACT 3) What is your reaction to Portia's speech?
She is feminist, she wishes to maintain power and control over herself and wishes she could choose her own husband.
(ACT 2) In what ways are her speech and situation similar to Launcelot's?
She is frustrated in her relationship with Shylock. She feels some loyalty but also disgust and contempt.
(ACT 4) What is significant about Portia's first question? How might one use this line as the key to an interpretation of the play?
She is unable to tell them appart by looking at them [Antonio and Shylock] "Which is the merchant here, and which is the Jew?" She doesn't see a difference between Christians and Jews. *(Appearance vs Reality)*
(ACT 4) What is Portia's first judgement about the bond?
She says it is "strange."
(ACT 3) What reason does Portia give to Lorenzo for her departure with Nerissa?
She says she has sworn to "live in prayer and contemplation" (l.28) until her husband's return.
(ACT 3) What does she send Balthazar to do?
She sends Balthazar to give a letter to her cousin, Dr. Ballerio.
(ACT 2) What does Jessica ask Launcelot to do for her?
She wants Lancelot to give Lorenzo a letter.
(ACT 2) What is Jessica planning on doing?
She wants to marry Lorenzo (a Christian).
(ACT 4) Why is it important that offers be made to pay Shylock the amount owed him and even more?
Shows that money is not as important as revenge is.
(ACT 3) What is Shylock demanding?
Shylock demands his bond.
(ACT 4) Who has won thus far?
Shylock has, if the bond is denied it will set a precedent (standard).
(ACT 2) What is Shylock's response to the news that there will be a masque (that includes music)?
Shylock is worried the masque and music will poorly influence Jessica.
(ACT 4) Why must Shylock then be merciful?
Shylock must be merciful as his bond IS legal and therefore has to happen.
(ACT 3) What does Shylock do after reminding Antonio of his bond?
Shylock states he will get his revenge, and tries to gain sympathy at the same time.
(ACT 2) What does Shylock tell Jessica?
Shylock tells Jessica that he has been asked to suffer. Asks her to watch the house.
(ACT 3) What is the function of this scene, with Jessica and Launcelot talking about salvation, and then with Jessica and Lorenzo talking first about Launcelot and then about Portia and Bassanio?
Emphases distrust in people's actions and their words.
(ACT 4) How does the law begin to work against Shylock?
He must follow the bond word for word, "Pound of flesh shall be taken." He shall have nothing but the penalty.
(ACT 1) What does he [Bassanio] start talking about instead?
He refers to her [Portia] as Jason's Golden Fleece. *She becomes an object to him*.
(ACT 1) How does the law apply to her?
Law says she needs to choose a husband, but it doesn't help her choose. (She doesn't get the money till she's married.)
(ACT 1) How does he describe Portia and his quest for her (and her wealth)?
Explains how he has lived beyond his means.
(ACT 2) What are the caskets made of? What message does each have on the outside?
Gold- Who chooseth me gets what many men desire Silver- Shall get as much as he deserves Lead- Must give and hazard all he has
(ACT 3) Who else is getting married? What additional company join them?
Gratiano and Nerrissa are also getting married. Lorenzo, Jessica, and Solerio enter the scene.
(ACT 1) How has Antonio treated Shylock in the past? What does Antonio think of that?
He [Antonio] criticized Shylock for his practices (business) is racist towards him and spits on him. He doesn't apologize and says he would do it all again.
(ACT 1) How do these two topics come together?
He [Bassanio] wants a loan so he can court the lady he loves.
(ACT 2) What message is Launcelot now carrying to Shylock?
He asks Shylock to have supper with Bassanio.
(ACT 4) What does the Duke assume Shylock will do? What is Shylocks response?
He believes Shylock will show mercy for Antonio. He says he is sworn to his bond and doesn't wish to give a reason other than his hate and loathing of Antonio.
(ACT 1) How does Antonio see his position in the world?
He believes his part is a sad one to play "I hold the world but as the world, Gratiano : a stage where every man must play a part, and mine a sad one." (l. 77-79)
(ACT 4) While the Duke is reading the letter from Bellario, why does Antonio say he is fit to die?
He believes that he must fulfill the bond. He says he deserves to die as he has been weak, "Hasn't one the love of Bassanio?"
(ACT 3) Which casket does Bassanio choose? What reward does he receive?
He chooses the lead casket, It is the simplest, "The world is still deceived with ornament" (l. 92). *(Relates to appearance vs. reality)* He gets the reward of marrying Portia.
(ACT 2) Which casket does Arragon choose? What reward does he get?
He chooses the silver casket because he believes he is deserving of reward. Instead he finds an image of a fool (jester) inside.
(ACT 2) What casket does the Prince of Morocco choose? What reward does he get?
He chose the gold casket. Says only gold is worth holding her image. Get instead gets scroll.
(ACT 1) How does Antonio respond to Salerio and Solanio's suggestions?
He denies both of their ideas. He states he is NOT in finical trouble.
(ACT 3) How does Bassanio tell Portia about Antonio?
He explains that he lied about his financial status and says that Antonio is supporting him.
(ACT 1) How does Shylock respond to the Christians methods of making money?
He is critical of them, "lens out, money gratis (free)" (l. 41).
(ACT 2) How is Bassanio described by Portia?
He is described as the "Lord Love"
(ACT 2) Whom is Launcelot going to serve now?
He is going to serve Bassanio.
(ACT 4) How does Gratiano respond to this request?
He is happy to see that Shylock has lost his wealth.
(ACT 3) Why is the inscription on the lead casket appropriate to Bassanio? In which ways is it not?
He is in deep debt, on behalf of Antonio Antonio is really the one who must "Hazard all he hath" he has the loan in his name and will have the pound of flesh taken if he can't pay it back. Antonio is punished not Bassiano
(ACT 4) What is Antonio's response to his approaching death?
He is prepared to die. Fortune is letting him die rather than making him live as a poor man. Worse to be disgraced as being poor than die.
(ACT 4) What is Shylock doing while the Duke and Nerissa are talking?
He is sharpening his knife.
(ACT 1) What is the tone of Antonio's first speech?
He is very sad and contemplative. Wonders why he is so sad.
(ACT 1) How has her father controlled her choice of a husband even after his death?
He left three caskets (Gold, Silver, Lead) the suitor must pick the right one. Will have a photograph of Portia inside.
(ACT 2) Why is Shylock happy that Launcelot is now working for Bassanio?
He thinks Lancelot can help him forfeit his loan to Antonio and Bassanio
(ACT 2) How does Launcelot treat his father?
He treats his father cruelly, tries to confuse him and suggests his son is dead.
(ACT 3) Does Shylock see any differences between Christians and Jews?
He tries to say that Jews and Christians are the same *(Appearance vs. Reality ? )* Trying to make them feel guilty for him by making him seem like he is not that different from them [christians].
(ACT 1) What biblical story does Shylock use to justify his taking of interest?
He uses the story of Jacob and Laban.
(ACT 3) What does Shylock tell Antonio (indirectly) to look to his bond?
He wants Antonio to be reminded of his contract even if his ships are in trouble.
(ACT 3) In Antonio's letter what is he trying to do to Bassanio?
He wants Bassanio to attend his death, see the flesh removed. Wants to make him feel guilty, questioning/testing his loyalty.
(ACT 2) How, according to Solanio, did Shylock respond to his daughters departure?
He was angry that she had stolen his money. More concerned about his wealth.
(ACT 4) How have the tables turned?
His intention to hurt Antonio for revenge has comeback to hurt him.
(ACT 3) Why does Portia want Bassanio to wait a day or two before choosing a casket?
If Bassanio chooses the wrong casket he must leave, Portia wants him to stay longer.
(ACT 4) What additional problems with the law does Shylock have? Does this law against the "alien" apply to Shylock?
If you threaten the life of someone, the individual receives half your goods, and the state receives the other. This law applies to Shylock as he is Jewish.
(ACT 3) What is the effect of intermingling news about Antonio and about Jessica?
It stresses a balance between good and bad *[Reward and Punishment]*
(ACT 3) What news does Tubal have from Genoa?
Jessica and Lorenzo have left. One of Antonio's ships have sunk.
(ACT 2) How does Jessica escape from her father's house? What does she take with her?
Jessica transforms into a boy and climbs out of the window down a rope into a rope with Lorenzo and his friends. She takes with her a casket of ducats.
(ACT 3) What did Jessica use to pay for a monkey?
Jessica uses the ring his [shylock's wife] wife gave him to pay for the monkey.
(ACT 1) What seems to be the main difference between the Jews and Christians, at least the merchants?
Jews = interest (wealth and prophet) Christians = no interest/very minimal
(ACT 3) Is it any surprise that Bassanio chooses the correct casket?
No, it was expected.
(ACT 4) How likely is Shylock to respond favourably to it?
Not very likely, as he is Jewish.
(ACT 4) What sort of problem is brewing here? How does it relate to the themes of the play?
One theme: making deals and promises without considering the consequences of breaking them.
(ACT 4) How do Portia and Nerissa respond to them?
Portia and Nerissa disagree with their husbands' promises and are offended by them.
(ACT 1) How does Portia feel at the beginning of the scene? How does this compare to the beginning of 1.1?
Portia is feeling very stressed, upset, and sad. Her words and attitude resemble Antonio's.
(ACT 3) What does Portia say about the ring after giving it to Bassanio?
Portia says Bassanio will be dead when he loses the ring.
(ACT 3) What does Portia tell Nerissa they will be doing?
Portia tells Nerissa they will be seeing their husbands soon but that they will be dressed as young men.
(ACT 3) What is rich Portia's response?
Rich Portia's response is that Bassanio should pay Shylock with her money. She is wealthier than all of them.
(ACT 1) What explanations do Salerio and Solanio come up with, what does this tell us about Antonio?
Salerio says he is worried about his ships at sea, Solanio says he is in love.
(ACT 4) What is the message of Bellario's letter? Who is Balthazar?
Says that Bellario has sent a young doctor in his place as he is sick. Balthazar is Portia dressed as a boy.
(ACT 4) Before the trial proper begins, what does Antonio say the Duke has already tried to do?
Says the Duke has already tried to stop Shylock from going through with his bond.
(ACT 1) How would you describe the relations between the Christians and Jews in Venice?
Tense and sceptical of each other. They don't mix pleasure with business ("ancient grudge" (l. 44).
(ACT 4) How does the Duke respond?
The Duke tries to show some mercy towards Shylock.
(ACT 2) How does Morocco come a-courtin'?
The Prince of Morocco wants to prove how red blooded and fearless he is regardless of his complexion (he is black).
(ACT 2) What plans have changed?
The dinner isn't happening, "no masque tonight." Antonio and Bassanio plan to leave as the winds change.
(ACT 4) How does this discussion help us see the purpose and focus of the "quality of mercy" speech?
The entire fate of Antonio lays with Shylock. Focuses on his humanity, will he be merciful?
(ACT 4) What is the ultimate claim (even "threat") in demanding justice?
The law will become meaningless.
(ACT 2) What happens to a suitor when they choose the wrong casket?
The suitor must leave and never speak to Portia about marriage again.
(ACT 3) How are Portia and Bassanio getting on Together?
The two are falling in love.
(ACT 1) What changes?
They [the suitors] all plan on returning home.
(ACT 2) What are Lorenzo and his friends planning for that evening?
They are planning a dinner party so they can help Jessica run away with Lorenzo and get married.
(ACT 3) What is the function of the scene between Shylock and Antonio? What does it tell us about Antonio's chances of survival?
Tries to show that Shylock is justified, he is only following their binding agreement. However, what he really wants is revenge. The bond must be fulfilled and then Antonio shall die.
(ACT 2) What is Launcelot trying to decide in 2.2- 1-25?
Wonders whether he should leave Shylock as he mistreats him. He ends up leaving him to go work for Bassanio.
(ACT 2) Does he get the job? Why?
Yes Launcelot gets the job, bassanio tells him to let Shylock know he is no longer working with him. He doesn't want to bring Gratiano with him to Venice and needs a servant to help him while courting Portia.