Act 1 Merchant Of Venice Flashcards
Scene 1
Why is Antonio sad?
Because he has no money to give to Bassanio
Scene 1
Why do Salerio and Solanio think Antonio is sad?
First because maybe one of his ships went down. Second because maybe he’s in love.
Scene 1
Why can’t Antonio give Bassanio money? What is the plan for Antonio to help him?
Antonio can’t give Bassanio money because all his money is tied up. Bassanio is to go to a money lender and use Antonio’s good name to get a loan.
Scene 1
What does Antonio give Bassanio?
Antonio gives Bassanio permission to use his good name to get a loan from a money lender
Scene 1
What do we learn about Bassanio? What does this tell us about his personality?
We learn that Bassanio can’t save money. This tells us that he’s not super responsible and isn’t good when their is money in his hands.
Scene 2
What does Portia think about the contest?
Portia dislikes the contest because she gets no say in who her husband is.
Scene 2
What is Nerissas opinion on the contest?
Nerissa tells Portia she is overreacting because at least she has her wealth
Scene 3
What feeling does Shylock reveal in his aside?
Shylock reveals feelings of anger or sadness towards how Antonio treated him
Scene 3
Through Shylock, what does the audience learn about Antonio’s current business adventures?
The audience learns that Antonio’s business is very risky and that he could loose all of his money rather quick and easily
Scene 3
What are the details and conditions of the contract between Antonio and Shylock?
Antonio must pay Shylock 3 thousand duckats in 3 months and if he fails, Shylock can remove a pound of flesh from Antonio’s body
Scene 2
Does Portia favour any man over others?
Portia does not favour any man, she dislikes all the suitors who has come to her so far
Scene 1
Portia’s reaction to her suitors reveals a good deal of prejudice on her part. Explain using evidence from the play
Portia is a very sophisticated young girl who simply wants a say in her future, but cannot disrespect her fathers wishes
Scene 2
Who are the suitors who have come to try and win Portia’s hand in marriage? List them and make notes if the comments Portia makes about each
First the Neapolitan prince, but he talks about his horse none stop.
Then the county palatine, he never smiles, she fears he will prove the weeping philosopher when he grows old.
Then the French lord, Monsieur LeDon, he frowns and has 20 personalities.
Then Falconbridge, the young barren of England, he does not understand her, ape is of different languages. He is dumb.
Then the Scottish lord, he is a charity. Next the duke of saxony’s nephew, he is a drunk, never is sober
Scene 3
After reading this scene what impression do u have of Shylock? Antonio?
I feel Shylock is a little bit of an asshole. He is grumpy and angry. I feel Antonio is very loyal toward those he cares about
Scene 3
What insults and prejudices does Shylock feel he has suffered? Give some specific examples
Shylock feels he is neglected and mistreated unfairly by his christians
