Language Features Flashcards
Why does Shakespeare use religious imagery?
To highlight the conflict between the Christian and Jewish characters
What is the affect of the Christians referring to Shylock as the “devil”?
The metaphor shows how villainous Shylock is in their eyes as the devil is associated with evil. It also reflects their belief that Jews were destined to go to hell
What is “a Daniel” and why does Shylock praise Portias judgement with this?
It’s a wise Jewish figure in the Old Testement. He says it as he thinks she’s going to give him the justice he deserves
When is mythological imagery used?
To describe love
What metaphor does Bassanio describe Portia’s suitors with that makes Portia seem heroic?
“Jasons come in quest of her”. In Greek mythology Jason had to overcome a series of dangerous obstacles to find the golden fleece
Portia compares Bassanio’s attempt at the casker test to the rescue of Hesoine by Hercules. What does this show?
How tense this moment is by suggesting that life depends on Bassanio choosing the correct casket. Hercules is known for havinf brave deeds in greek mythology
How do Lorenzo and Jessixa use mythological imagery to describe their relationship in act 5, scene 1?
They compare themselves to doomed lovers which suggests their relationship may not end well
What affects does Salerio describing a shipwreck using personification have?
The image of the ship bending over “her ribs” to “kiss her burial” makes it seem like a living thing which hughlights its importance to him
What is dramatic irony?
It’s where the audience knows something that one or more of the characrers doesn’t.
What is an example of the audience hearing a private conversation containing other information other characters don’t know yet?
Salerio and Solanio discuess rumours that one of Anfonio’s ships is wrecked in act 2, scene 8
What is an example of the characters revealing their throughts in asides?
Antonio thinks Shylock agrees to the loan out of “kindness”, but Shylock admits to the audience that he will actually want revenge
How is Bassanio and Gratonion failing to recognise their wives during the court scene an example of dramatic irony?
The characters wear their disguises to hide who they really are and only the audience knows their true identity
What does dramatic iront make the audience feel?
More involved, which helps to hold their attention
How is dramatic irony used to create anticipation in act 3, scene 2?
Bassanio succeeds in the casket test and he’s delighted, but the audience knows that his hpoiness will be short-lived as they have just heard that Antonio has a “lost ship” in the previous scene.
How does dramatic irony build tension in the court scene?
The audience knows the true identity of the young lawyer and his assistant and they feel suspense as they wait to see if Portia saves Antonio without being found out
