Act 1

Question 1

Quote which highlights Skylock’s prejudice against Chrsitians, presenting him as a villain.

Answer 1

Quote: “I hate him for he is a Christian”

Question 2

Quote from Shylock that foreshadows Antonio’s ships sinking (This is significant as this is required for him to take a pound of flesh)

Answer 2

Quote: “The peril of waters, winds and rocks”
Device: Foreshadowing

Question 3

Quote which highlights Bassanio’s desperate nature

Answer 3

Quote: May you stead me? Will you pleasure me? Shall I know your answer?
Device: Triple Question

Question 4

Quote which emphasises Bassanio’s tendency to view Portia as an object. Also is a reference to “Jason and the Argonauts” which symbolises how everyone wants Portia and Bassanio will be her possessor

Answer 4

Quote: “Hang on her temples like a golden fleece”
Device: Simile

Question 5

Quote which suggests that Bassanio is after Portia just for her wealth and to “clear of all [his] debts”, which underlines his desperateness and manipulativeness.

Answer 5

Quote: “In Belmont there is a lady richly left”

Question 6

Quote which presents Skylock as a victim, not a villain, which gives the audience an uncertain impression. It also reveals that Antonio has carried out anti-semetic acts towards Shylock, giving a reason for their rivalry.

Answer 6

Quote: “You call me misbeliever, cut-throat dog. and spit upon my Jewish Garbedine”

Question 7

Quote which highlights Antonio’s ignorance of merchant trade, not taking Shylock’s threat seriously.

Answer 7

Quote: “My ships come home a month before the day”