‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ACT I Scene 1 CONTEXT QUESTIONS 1. @) Antonio and his friends are in a street in Venice. Antonio siys that his sadness makes him depressed and dull. He further says that he is yet to lear about the origin and ature of his sadness. (i) (@) whereof i is born: how it originated. (©) a wont-wit sadness: a dull sadness. (©) That I have much ado to know myself: That I have much difficulty in recognising myself. (ii) Salarino tells Antonio that he is sad because his mind is preoccupied with his ships filled with cargo, which are out at sea (iv) Salarino compares Antonio's ships sailing on the waves with the great lords and wealthy citizens, who look down on lesser men as they walk along the street. He says that compared to smaller ships, “Antonio's ships move swiftly on the sea with their canvas sails and Took like grand spectacles or pageants of the sea. (¥) Antoniois presented as amelancholic and passive character mainly for three reasons. Firstly, by portraying Antonio as a whimsical person, who is least bothered about the consequences of his actions, justifies his signing the bond-agreement. Secondly, Antonio's melancholy creates a tragic atmosphere suitable for the play. Thirdly, Antonio's melancholy creates a sense of mystery for the audience. ‘The following are the probable reasons for Antonio's melancholy: He may be melancholic by nature, (O. He fears losing Bassanio to Portia O._Hehas no wife and children and therefore, suffers frontioneliness. O- He has a foreboding of some approaching disaster. 2. (i) If Salanio had business ventures abroad, his thoughts would be fixed on the dangers to his ventures and methods of securing them. He would be plucking the blades of grass and casting them in the air to see which way the wind blew, to see if it was blowing in a direction favourable to the course of his ships or not. Further, he ‘would look into maps for harbours, channels and open road-steads near to the shore where his ships could anchor in case of need. (i) Every thought of Salanio would make him fearful of danger to his business ventures. Two examples which reminded Seiariho of the a ACT I’ Scene 1 5 ‘danger to his ships were: (a) While cooling his soup by blowing on. it, reminded him of the stormy winds at sea causing terrible damages to his ships. () The sandy hour-glass reminded him of the richly laden vessels wrecked on the sandy shore. (ii) (@) Plucking of grass and casting them in the air to see which way the wind blew. (©) Looking into maps for harbours, channels and even open road- steads neer the shore. (iv) Despite danger to his ships, Antonio is not worried about his financial security because his business is neither dependent on any one ship nor on any single location or commercial transactions of the current year. (¥) The opening scene describes the possible dangers that the sea could pose to ships such as strong winds, dangerous shallow waters, sand banks and dangerous rocks. Antonio is very confident about his business venture as he says that his business enterprises are neither | dependent on a single ship nor on a single business transaction of a particular year. 3. (i) This scene takes place in a street of Venice. Antonio, Salarino and Salanio are present in the scene. Salarino is in a talkative mood and ‘wants to know the reason for Antonio's melancholy. He says that he too would be feeling melancholic if his ships were sailing on the (i) It would remind Salarino of the stormy winds at sea and of the terrible damages they might cause to the ships. (Gi) Wealthy Andrew refers to a Spanish ship called Andrea captured by ‘the British sailors in 1596. It ran aground when it was being brought to England. Since then Andrew refers to a big cargo ship. In the above lines Salarino imagines that his rich cargo ship is grounded in sand and her mast dipped down lower than her sides as if trying, to kiss the sands that surround her. (Gv) Sandy hour-glass is an apparatus used to indicate time. It would remind Salarino of the dangers from hidden banks of sand at sea, oon wihch a ship may run aground. (¥) When Salarino would go to the church he would see the holy building made of stone. This scene would make him think of the perilous rocks of the sea and imagine that a collision of his ship with these rocks would be sufficient to break his vessel into pieces and scatter fon the sea all her spices and silks. 4. (@ Salarino has just said that Antonio was in love. Antonio calls the remark as nonsense and completely denies that he is in love.6 ‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE ~ HANDBOOK (i) Salarino concludes that Antonio is sad because he is not happy. He xemarks that there are some curious creatures in the world, He swears, by Janus, the two-headed Roman God that some people have merry natures and are continuously laughing whether the things they see are subject for mirth or not. Again there are others with the sourest countenance who will not laugh at any thing though the gravest old. warrior Nestor himself confirms the joke as most amusing. (ji) Janus is a Roman god usually depicted with two heads looking in opposite directions — one frowning and the other smiling. He had received from god Saturn, the gift to see both the past and the future. He is referred to in the extract to show that there are two types of people — one happy and the other sad. Nestor was the King of Pylos. He was one of the greatest generals in the Trojan War. He was famous for his wisdom, justice, knowledge of war and profound gravity. If he laughed, it meant the joke was really funny. He is referred to in the extract to describe the sad and ‘grave people. (Gv) Nature has framed two types of people. The first type of people have happy nature and often laugh even if the subject of laughter is too trivial. The second type of people are those with serious and ‘grave faces, who do not laugh even at the most amusing jokes. (W) Atthe end of Salarino’s speech, Bassanio, Gratiano and Lorenzo come. Salarino leaves Antonio then because Antonio's friends, Bassanio, Gratiano and Lorenzo have come to give him company. 5. () Gratiano gives the example of a warm-blooded young man who represses his spirits and forces himself to stillness till he looks like the marble image of his grandfather. He does so to advise Antonio ‘not to remain in melancholy. He is likely to be infected with jaundice due to his bad temper. (i) (@) Some men overcast their faces with a pale expression as unchanging as'the cream that forms on the surface of milk and as the scum that forms on the surface of a stagnant pool. (b) maintain an obstinate silence not to disturb the solemnity of their faces. (Gi) In the extract, Gratiano speaks about people who try to obtain a reputation for wisdom, seriousness and deep thought by remaining silent. Such people mean to say that they speak with the authority of the Greek Oracle and they alone are infallible in their utterances. When they speak, others should keep quiet. (jv) ‘I am Sir Oracle’ means ‘I speak with the authority of the Greek ACT I Scene 1 7 Oracle’. The Greek Oracles made known the will of Gods and were received by all without questions. “Let no dog bark’ means ‘let no one speak. It refers to the attitude of, those wise men who consider themselves as the fountain of wisdom and want that when they speak, others should remain silent. (¥) At the end of his speech, Gratiano advises Antonio not to be one of those who try to gain’a reputation for wisdom by being silent. He further tells Antonio not to use melancholy as a bait to win the reputation of wisdom and cheap popularity, which is like a worthless cheap fish, a gudgeon. Bassanio says that Gratiano indulges in such idle talk much ore than any other man in Venice and his reasons are like two grains of wheat hidden in two bushes of worthless stuff. 6. (i) Bassanio and Antonio are in a street in Venice. Prior to this extract, ‘Antonio asks Bassanio to tell him about his plans, He adds, shat if Bassanio’s plan is as honourable as he is, he then promises him everything that he has— money, influence, personal help and utmost (ii) The above lines mean that at any rate Bassanio could pay the second loan and remain his grateful debtor for the frst. (Gi) Bassanio says that when he was a boy at school and he lost one of his arrows while shooting, he would shoot another arrow in the same direction. Thus, by risking the second, he often regained both the arrows. (iv) Bassanio proposes to pay back his previous loan as well as the present loan by carefully managing the expenditure of his second Joan amount. (v) Earlier, Bassanio confesses to Antonio that he has spent his wealth by having a more lordly way of living than his moderate income allowed him. Therefore, he has incurred heavy debts because of his youth and extravagance. This proves that Bassanio is a spendthrit. 7. (i) ‘Fair speechless messages’ mean glances which are silent messages of love, Bassanio wants to say that sometimes he received fom Porta’s eyes lovely silent messages. The words ‘nothing undervalued’ ‘mean not less precious. Bassanio says that his Portia is no less precious than Cato’s daughter. (Gi) Cato, the father of Brutus’ wife Portia, was the great-grandson of the famous Cato, the Censor. Inthe Civil War between Pompey and Caesar he supported Pompey and was defeated by Caesar. Brutus, Ihusband of Portia, was the chief of the conspirators against Caesar‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE ~ HANDBOOK and caused his assassination. They are referred to show that Portia of Belmont is as precious and great as Cato's daughter, Portia. (ii) The passage says that Portia’s fame had spread throughout the ‘world as suitors from every part of the world come to Belmont to ‘win her hand in marriage. (iv) Jason was a Greek hero, who was sent by Pelias, his uncle who had ‘usurped the throne, to fetch the golden fleece from Colchos. In Greek mythology, golden fleece is referred fo as the fleece of the winged ram Chrysomallos. It was kept at an oak tree in a grove sacred to god Ares and guarded by a dragon in Colchos. Bassanio compares Portia to the golden fleece and himself in his quest for Portia, to Jason on his voyage to fetch the golden fleece. He refers to other suitors as Jasons, (©) Bassanio's description of Portia in the opening scene reveals that she is a paragon among women. She is rich and beautiful with golden hnair. She has wonderful mental qualities and is virtuous as wel. Her fame has attracted suitors from all over the woild. She is in no ‘way inferior to her namesake, Cato's daughter and Brutus’ wile. Bassanio needs money to go to Belmont to win his lady love, Portia. He asks Antonio for a loan and as Antonio has no ready cash he tells Bassanio to take a loan on his namé. 8. (@ Antonio is unable to help Bassanio at once since he has no money in hand as all his business ventures are at sea (@) The sum was three thousand ducats. It was required urgently for Bassanio to go to Belmont and present himself before Portia as a ‘worthy suitor. (iil) Antonio instructs Bassanio to find out a merchant who is ready to ‘give him money against his name. (Gv) The credit shall be stretched to the utmost limit. Antonio says that he is ready to stretch the credit as far as to equip Bassanio to go to Belmont to woo Portia. (¥) Antonio is introduced in the scene as a rich merchant having many shipping ventures at sea. He is in a state of melancholy and not interested in love. Loyalty and generosity towards Bassanio are the ‘major traits of his character. Compared to Antonio, Bassanio is shown as a spendthrift young gallant, who lives a life of lurary beyond his ‘means. He seems to take undue advantage of Antonio's generosity. Unlike Antonio, he is a romantic man, who wants to marry Portia, a rich and beautiful heiress from Belmont, ACT I Scene 2 ACT I Scene 2 CONTEXT QUESTIONS 1. () Portia has just said that she can neither choose the one she likes ror refuse the one she dislikes because the choice of her husband depends on the lottery of caskets devised according to her late father's will. (ii) The lottery refers to the choice of the right casket containing Portia’s portrait from among the three caskets of gold, silver and lead. The suitot who will make the right choice as per the will of Portia’s father will win her in marriage. (Gi) Initially, Portia appears to be anxious over the prospect of choosing her husband through a lottery devised according to her father’s will She feels sad as she can neither choose the one she likes nor refuse the one she dislike as a her husband. But later on she accepts her father’s will. She says that she would remain a virgin like Diena tunless she is won in marriage by some suitor fulfilling the conditions of her father’s will. Nerissa’s reaction to the lottery was positive. She calls Portia’s father pious and asserts that good men do have inspirations at the time of death. She consoles Portia by saying that she will be chosen correctly by a person whom she truly loves. (Gv) These lines mean that Portia will be chosen correctly by a person whom she truly loves. (¥) Portia’s melancholy is the result of her anxiety over the prospect of her future husband while the cause of Antonio's melancholy is unknown. 2. () Portia and Nerissa are in a room in Portia’s house at Belmont. They are discussing the lottery of caskets and about the suitors who have already come to try their luck. In this scene, Portia is in a mood of, ‘melancholy and anxiety. (ii) County Palatine was the Count from Palatinate, the region on the ‘west bank of the Rhine in Germany. He was 2 powerful lord who ‘come to Belmont to win Portia’s hand. (Gi) The first prince described by Portia is the Neapolitan prince from Naples, ltaly. Portia describes him as a dashing youngster and as wild as a young horse. He does nothing but talks of his horse. He further considers his ability to shoe a horse himself as a great accomplishment. *10 ‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ACT I Scene 2 uw (iv) The weeping philosopher refers to Heraclitus of Ephesus. He was a Greek philosopher who lamented the stupidity and folly of mankind and wept at everything in the world. Portia refers to him to describe County Palatine. It means ‘a skull with a bone in its mouth’. The emblem of a skull with two bones crossed undemeath was usually mown as “death's head” (¥) County Palatine is described as a gloomy and self-conceited person He is always frowning as if to say that if Portia will not marry him, she may choose someone else. He is: morose and sullen that even jovial siories don't make him laugh. Portia feels that since he has an abrupt manner of speech and is usually gloomy in his young age, he may become a sad philosopher like Heraclitus when he grows old 3. (i) Earlier Portia described the Neapolitan prince as wild as a young horse and so attached to his horse that he always spoke about the horse only. The Count Palatine and Le Bon share the common characteristic of frowning. (Gi) he is every man in no man: He has every man’s characteristics but no personality of his own. (iii) When he hears the singing of a thrush, the French Lord starts jumping immediately. (iv) (@) Tt would be as if she were married to twenty husbands as he is never one man but twenty men by turns. (©) If he were to despise Portia, Portia would not be in the least angry and would forgive him. (©) Portia could never return his love since she coulé never possibly love twenty husbands. (¥) Portia says that the French Lord is more attached to his horse than the Neapolitan Prince and excels Count Valatine in trowning, It he hears a thrush singing, he starts jumping immediately. Further, if he does not have anybody to fence with, he will take his own shadow as adversary. 4. (@ The baron’s external appearance is described as odd and strange. He is oddly dressed and very odd in behaviour too. He wears an Italian jacket and breeches in the French fashion. He seems to have got his hat from Germany and his manners from everywhere. Englishmen ‘of Shakespeare's days had fondness for the manners and clothes of foreigners. (i) Portia’s statement that the Englishman did not know Latin, French or Italian shows that he had very poor knowledge of European Languages. Portia found it difficult to converse with him as he did not know Latin, French ot Italian and Portia’s knowledge of English was very poor. (ji) (@) He is a proper man’s picture: He is handsome and fine-looking (©) How oddly he is suited!: He is dressed very strangely. (Gv) The word dumb-show refers to a play in which all characters act without speaking, that is by gestures. A pantomime is a dumb-show. ‘The baron is described as a ‘dumb-show’ because he is unable to speak foreign languages and had to converse by means of signs as in a dumb-show. (¥) The Scottish Lord is not impressive. Portia speaks about his cowardice in a sarcastic way by calling him kind-hearted as he did not return the Englishman's blow immediately. The description of the Sottish Lord is a reference to the frequent alliances between the Scots and the French against England when Scotland was at war with England, 5. (i) When sober, the young German is less than a man in behaviour and when drunk he is no better than a beast. If the worse happens to Portia, she will manage to do without him. (i) (@) When he is drunk, he is no better than a beast. (©) Place a tall goblet of Rhenish wine on the wrong casket }) To prevent the young German from choosing the right casket, Portia instructed Nerissa to place a tall goblet of Rhenish wine on the wrong casket. Portia was sure that the German suitor will not be able to resist the temptation of his national drink even if the picture of the devil himself was within. (Gv) A sponge constantly absorbs water. Similarly, a drunkard, who constantly takes liquor is called a ‘sponge’. Since the young German is a drunkard, Portia calls him a ‘sponge’ {(v) Nerissa tells Portia to set aside her fears concerning the suitors. She says that they have informed her of their decision to go back hhome and not to press their courtship further unless Portia's father’s decree concerning the caskets can be set aside and they may woo heer in an ordinary way. Nerissa’s concern for Portia comes forth in hher speech as she tries to sooth Portis troubled mind due to her “unworthy suitors. 6. ( Portia’s father’s will was that her marriage will be decided by the lottery of the three caskets. The suitor, who chooses the right casket containing Portia’s picture will be her husband. (ii) In Ovia’s metamorphoses, Sibylla was a prophetess. She was granted. a wish by goddess Apollo that she would live for as many years. as the grains of sand she held in her hand. She was the ageless old ‘woman. Diana was the goddess of moon and hunting. She is known, as the virgin goddess.12 ‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ‘They are referred to here to explain Portia’s resolve to remain a virgin like Diana even if she lives to be as old as Sibyl of Cumae unless she is won in marriage by some suitor in the lottery of caskets. (ii) To introduce Bassanio, Nerissa recalls the visit of a young Venetian along with the Marquis of Montferrat, when Portia’s father was alive. He was a scholar and a soldier. In this scene, Portia’s feelings for Bassanio are quite positive. She recalls his name and tells, Nerissa that he fully deserves her praise. Her simple reply shows that she is already in love with Bassanio. (iv) The opening of the first two scenes of Act I gives the plots of the play. The two main plots of the play are the bond-story and the casket-story. The bond-story is initiated in Scene 1 while the casket- story is initiated in Scene 2 of Act I. (¥) The six suitors given in this scene are: (a) TheNeapolitan Prince from Naples Italy, was dashing youngster, as wild as a horse. He always talked about his horse (©) TheCounty Palatine was always frowning and unusually gloomy. (©) Monsieur Le Bon from France, had the characteristic of every ‘man and had no personality of his own. (a) Mr. Falconbridge from England, though handsome was strangely and unmannerly dressed and did not know Latin, French or Italian, (€) TheScottish Lord, was a coward and did not repay the Englishman who gave him a blow. (8) The Duke of Saxony was a drunkard. He in his sober moments, behaved less than a man and when drunk no better than a beast. ACT I Scene 3 CONTEXT QUESTIONS 1. () Antonio is bound to a bond according to which if he fails to repay the amount in due time, Shylock will be entitled to take an exact pound of flesh from any part of Antonio's body that he may wish. It was very unwise of Antonio to misjudge Shylock’s intentions and sign such a fatal bond. (i) Can you help me and will you do me this favour? (Gi) When Shylock says the above words, he means that Antonio is a reliable man, whose surety is sufficient to give a loan. ACT I Scene 3 13 (Gv) Shylock enumerates the possible dangers to Antonio's merchandise — ships being only planks of wood are apt to be broken; the mariners being merely human beings, are liable to be drowned; there are pirates on the waters; and there are all the dangers of the ocean from the gales, tempests and dangerous rocks. (¥) Antonio can be considered as a prudent businessman as his wealth is distributed over the whole world. One of Antonio's ship is on its journey to Tripolis, another is bound for the Indies, a third is ‘voyaging to Mexico, fourth to England and others to various other Aistant places. He is so overconfident of his riches that he agrees to fan unreasonable and dangerous bond. () Publicans were tax collectors for the Romans and were generally ‘oppressive. They were hated by the Jews because they were agents of Rome, who collected taxes also from the Jews. Publican is a natural term of contempt and loathing in the mouth of a Jew. Shylock hates Antonio because he is a Christian, lends money without interest and hurls abuses on him. (@) The words mean that if Shylock could get hold of Antonio at a disadvantage or in a weak spot, he will satisfy fully the long-standing hatred he has against him. (Gi) Shylock had a long-standing grudge against Antonio because ‘Antonio was a Christian and looked upon the holy Jewish race with contempt. He used to lend money without interest and thius, bring down the rate of interest. He even spat on Shylock, kicked him and called him a ‘cut-throat dog’ (iv) "The Sacred Nation’ is a reference to the holy Jewish race. ‘Antonio insults Shylock for his business deals and for earning profit by lending money on interest. (8) Shylock plans to get money immediately from a wealthy fellow-Jew ‘Tubal. It shows that Shylock wants to execute the bond as soon as possible and use the chance to take his revenge on Antonio. 3. (@ The topic referred to in the extract is lending money for interest. Jacob was the second son of Issac who became the third successor to Abraham. Abraham was the founder of the Hebrew nation and Jacobs’ grandfather. (Gi), Laban was Jacob's uncle. Jacob and Laban entered into an agreement that Jacob would receive as his wages the lambs which were bam with spots or stripes, During the breeding season, Jacob arranged the ‘wodden rods in such a way that the shadows of the rods should fall, ‘on the sheep. Consequently, most of the lambs were bor spotted or stripped, and thus, they became Jacob's property. (ii) Taking interest means to charge specific amounts on the money given as loan for a specified period. Receiving payment for one’s“4 ‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ACT I Scene 3 15 labour means to take remuneration for one’s service rendered. This is legitimate while taking interest is not in order. (iv) After this extract, Antonio tells Shylock that it was purely a matter of chance in Jacob's case. He had no control over it himself, but providence guided and governed the event. It was not a matter in the hands of men, like the taking of interest. () “The third possessor” means the third in the line of heirs to family estates. The first one was Abraham ahd the second was Issac. Esau and Jacob were Issac’s sons. Issac wanted to bless his elder son Esau but would do so after he brought him some savoury meat Jacob's mother Rebecca overheard this conversation. She wanted to get this blessing for Jacob. She told Jacob to fetch two goats to make a savoury dish. Rebecca then asked Jacob to go to his blind father with the savoury meat. In this way, Jacob, through the crafty assistance of his mother, got the blessing of his father. 4.) Itmeans “are you going to oblige us.” Rialto was the Venetian Stock Exchange where the merchants met for the transaction of business. (ii) Shylock speaks of his ill-treatment at the hands of Antonio, He says that Antonio had spat upon his Jewish robe in contempt and called him an unbeliever and a cur. He had also spat upon his beard. On another day he had pushed him aside with his foot as if he were a stray dog being kicked out of his house. Shylock reacted to Antonio's insults patiently. (ii) Shylock bore Antonio's insults patiently since, a5 a shrewd Jew, he was waiting for an opportune time to take revenge on Antonio. Earlier, in the scene Shylock admits that patience is the badge of his race. (iv) Financially Antonio is a threat to Shylock’s money-lending business because he lends money without charging interest and thus brings down the rate of interest charged by money-lenders. Besides, he hates Antonio since he is a Christian, who despises the Jewish race. (¥) Antonio is a rich businessman but does not have ready cash in his hand. That is why he needs to bortow money from his enemy Shylock to give it to Bassanio, his friend so that he can go to Belmont to woo his lady love, Portia. Shylock is ready to lend money to Antonio because that would enable him to take revenge on Antonio for all the insults heaped on him by Antonio. 8. (i) Shylock is referring to the insults hurled on him by Antonio such as speaking abusively of him and his money-lending, spitting on him, kicking him, calling him a dog and ridiculing the Jews. (ii) “The present wants’ refer to the immediate need of Antonio — three thousand ducats to provide for Bassanio's trip to Belmont to woo Portia, Shylock is ready to supply the wants provided Antonio signs a bond, according to which if Antonio is unable to pay him the money on the specified date, the penalty to be paid will be an exact pound of flesh from any part of Antonio's body. (ii) Antonio storms Shylock by saying that in future too he is likely to abuse and disgrace him and that he should lend the money as to an ‘enemy rather than a friend. He challenges him to exact the penalty if he fails to repay on time. Shylock is willing to lend the morey without interest because he wants to trap Antonio in a fatal bond and take his revenge. (iv) ‘This is kind I offer you’ means this is the kindness that I offer you. ‘This refers to his lending of money without charging any interest ‘on it. Immediately after this, the speaker proposes to Antonio to accompany him to a lawyer and execute a bond with his signature wherein the forfeit to be paid will be an exact pound of flesh from any part of Antonio's body. (¥) The third person present at the scene is Bassanio. He is reluctant to agree to Shylock’s terms because he did not trust the kind words uttered by Shylock. He tells Antonio that he will not have him make such an agreément on his account. He would rather remain as poor as he is now and do without his wants supplied at such a price. . (i) A notary is a lawyer who has the authority to execute official and legal dealings and agreements. Shylock wants to take Antonio to the rotary to sign the bond document which stipulates that the forfeit to be paid will be @ pound of flesh from any part of Antonio's body. (i) (@) single bond: agreementin which Antonio wil be the only signatocy. (b) merry sport: for a pleasant joke. (Gi) Bassanio tells Antonio that he will not have him make such an agreement on his account. He adds that he would rather remain a poor as he is now and do without his wants supplied at such a price. (iv) Antonio is confident that there is no danger in signing the bond because he is confident that one month before the date of payment, his ships will have brought nine times the amount they are borrowing, and they will not have to pay the penalty. This incident shows ‘Antonio's overconfidence and generosity towards Bassanio. (¥) Shylock insists on a pound of Antonio's flesh to take revenge on hhim and to put him completely at his mercy. Shylock’s hatred for Antonio and Christians is shown in his absurd demand. Taking advantage of the situation, he wants to take revenge on Antonio and. all Christians, who persecuted him and his race. Shylock appears to be a man fired with hate and vengeance, who is ready to go to the extent of getting his enemy’s pound of flesh to take his revenge.16 ‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ACT II Scene 1 CONTEXT QUESTIONS 1. (This scene takes place in a room in Portia’s house at Belmont. People present are: Prince of Morocco and his attendants, Portia, Nerissa and her attendants. Morocco says that he got his dark colour because ‘of the fierce sun. He was born and brought up in a country where ‘the sun is very close to the earth. (Gd People born in north are fair-skinned. This is because the sun’s rays are 50 faint in the north that they are hardly able to melt the frost, snow and icicles. (ii) Phoebus in Greek mythology is one of the names of the Sun God, Apollo. “Phoebus’ fire” means the rays of the sun, Morocco proposes that he should be matched with any fair-skinned man bor in the north. They should open their veins to see whose blood is redder. Red blood was considered to be a sign of courage. (iv) Morocco’s physical appearance frightened the brave men whereas the prettiest women admired and loved it. (v) The speaker is prepared to change his dark complexion only to win over Portia’s favour. From the extract we know that the Prince of Morocco is a warrior and self-assured man. He has a large imposing physical appearance and is proud of his dark complexion. He is an egoist who thinks that he is better than other people. He boasts of his red blood and the admiration and affection he enjoys in his land from the nobles and best of maidens. 2. (i) Lottery of Portia's destiny refers to the lottery devised according to her deceased father’s will. According to the fottery, each suitor has to choose from amongst the three caskets of gold, silver and lead the one containing Portia's portrait. The suitor who will make the correct choice will win Portia’s hand in marriage. The lottery of caskets designed by her father, thus prevents Portia from exercising, her freedom of choice. The suitor, who will make the right choice will win her as wife. (i) These lines mean: “If I had not been limited and restricted by my father’s wisdom and obliged to accept for a husband the orie who will succeed in winning me by the means I have told you.” (Gi) Portia’s father was prudent to have arranged forher marriage through ACT II Scene 1 7 2 lottery. We see that at the end the wisdom of her father prevails and she is won as wife by Bassanio whom she loves and admires. (iv) From the extract we know that the Prince of Morocco is a warrior and self-assured man. He has a large imposing physical appearence and is proud of his dark complexion. He is an egoist who thinks that he is better than other people. He boasts of his red blood and the admiration and affection he enjoys in his land from the nobles and best of maidens. He admits that the lottery of the caskets has no consideration for heroism and can be won by anyone, even an undeserving candidate. He harps on the idea of chance ~ choice, lottery, destiny, chosing, fortune and hazards. (¥) Portia does not really mean that Morocco had a good chance of winning her love, because in Act I, Scene 2 she holds her former suitors in contempt. She thinks the sarhe of Morocco because he is boastful. Portia treats him with perfect courtesy and tact and speaks as if she holds him in high esteem. 3. () ‘Scimitar’ means sword. By using his sword, Morocco had slain the Emperor of Persia and a Persian Prince, who had defeated Sultan Solyman of Turkey thrice, (ii) The brave deeds Morocco is prepared to perform in order to win Portia are (to challenge the most brave warrior on earth, (ii) snatch away the young sucking cubs from the mother bear and dare her wrath ii) In Greek mythology, Hercules was renowned for his manliness, ctrength and exploits. Lichas was is servant. According to the legend, ‘once Hercules and Lichas were playing a game of dice. By chance, ‘the winning throw came from Lichas. This example is applicable to Morocco since his fame, wealth and achievements are of no help to him to win Portia. He is forced to take his chance against any inferior rival. (Gv) Before he is led to make the choice, Portia tells Morocco that he ‘must take a chance. He must either leave the matter altogether and rot make the attempt or swear in the Chapel before choosing, that if hhe makes the wrong choice, he will never again speak to any lady on the subject of marriage. (¥) The goddess fortune is usually represented blindfolded. Fortune is said to be blind due to the unaccountable variations in her dispensation of favours to marikind. He fears that as the blind fortune is leading him to choose the right casket, the outcome depends only on chance as in a game of dice.| | | 18 ‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE ~ HANDBOOK ACT I Scene 2 19 1 2 ACT II Scene 2 CONTEXT QUESTIONS () Launcelot Gobbo is Shylock’s servant. An inner struggle is going on in his mind between his conscience advising him to be a faithful servant and the devil tempting him, to leave Shylock’s service and take up service with Bassanio, Launcelot's inner struggle shows the contemporary Christian practice of struggling with the temptation to yield to it or not (ii) Launcelot wants to run away from the Jew because his master, Shylock is the very devil in human form. According to Launcelot, Shylock is a miserly man under whose service he remains famished. Besides, he fears that he would become a Jew if he served Shylock any longer. Initially, his conscience tells him not to run away from. Shylock’s household and to be careful. However, when the devil persuades him to flee, his conscience tells him that as he is the child of a good father or at least a good mother and so, he should stay where he is and not move. (ii) In this scene Launcelot provides some comic relief in the play. In the context of the play such a relief was needed because the previous scene related to the bond story, depicted a serious mood where Antonio agrees to sign a treacherous bond that stipulates a pound of his flesh in case he forfeits the agreement. (iv) Launeelot’s conscience advises him not to run away as such an act of fleeing is a matter of contempt. It adds that he is the child of a ‘good father or at least a good mother and hence he should stay on with the master. (¥) Finally, Launcelot obeys the devil. The theme of racial discrimination is brought out in Launcelot’s decision to run away because he runs away from his master, Shylock, who was a Jew and takes up service with Bassanio, a Christian. (@ Launcelot and Old Gobbo are in a street in Venice. “True-begotten father’ means my father who begot me’. Old Gobbo cannot recognise his son as he is more than half-blind. (ii) Old Gobbo is looking for the way to the Jew’s house to go there to find out if his son Launcelot, who was working as a servant in Shylock’s household is still there. Launcelot confuses Gobbo by «giving him wrong directions to Shylock’s house. Gobo says that by the saints, it was a difficult direction to follow. (iv) Gobbo has brought a dish of cooked doves to give to the Jew. Launcelot tells his father to give Shylock a rope t hang himself with rather than any present because he has half-starveq ‘him. (¥) When Gobbo asks Launcelot the way to Shylock’s house, the wrong directions which Launcelot gives him provide real comedy in the scene. The directions are too confusing for Old Gobbo to follow. The second example is Launcelo’s asking his fathers’ blessing. He kneels before his father. Being blind, his father touches Launcelot’s face and says that Launcelot has more hair on his face than that Dobbin, his cart-hore. 3. (i) Launcelot uses highsounding words in his conversation with Gobo toimpress him that he possesses clasical learning and is gentleman, Shakespeare wants to convey to the audience the habit of some vain people of his time who pretended to be what they were not (Gi) Launcelot calls Old Gobbo ‘father’ in the first line of the extract as he plans to reveal hs identity gradually to him. In the given lines Launcelot tells Gobbo that according to his Fate of Destiny or the ‘Three Sisters of the ancient Greeks and such other branches of earning the young man is dead. (iii) Old Gobbo is stunned on hearing that his son is dead. He states that his son was his only support in his old age. (Gv) When Gobbo asks Launcelot to tell him whether his son is really dead oF not, Launceot dramatically confesses that he i Gobbo’s son. But Gobbo does not believe him. Then Launcelot mentions the name of his mother, Margery, as a proof to show that he is really Gobbo's son. (v) Gobbo is fond of his son. When Launcelot tells him that his son is dead, Gobbo is shocked to hear it and laments that his son was his only support in his old age. Further Gobbo does not believe Launcelots’ confesrion till he mentions the name of his mother, When Launceot tells him that he is his son, Gobbo, being’ blind, feels Launcelot’s face to ascertain that he is actually his son (One humorous situation is when Launcelot gives Gobbo directions to go to Shylock’s house. The directions are so confusing that Gobo does not fallow it. Another humorous situation is the scene of Launcelot asking his fathers’ blessing. He kneels in front of his father. His father fels his beard and says that Launeelot has more hair on his face than their cart-horse has on his tail 4.) When Gobbo remarked that Launcelot has more hair on, his face than Dobbin, their shaf-horse has on his tail, Launctl¢ responded20 ‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK that Dobbin’s tail is growing less because when he last saw. him, he had more hair on his tail than he had on his ace. At this Gobbo remarked that Launcelot has changed. Gobbo has brought a dish of cooked doves to be given to Shylock. (0) (0) My mater oy Jes Wy mate oa typical jew, Ly hele a miserly man. (b) give him a halter: give him a rope to hang himself with, (Gi) In the extract Launcelot tells his father that under Shylock’s service he has grown so thin for want of proper food that his ribs and bones are standing out prominently and can be counted with the finger. This shows that Launcelot has been suffering in the Jew’s service. (iv) The miserly nature of the Jews is shown in this scene. Launcelot says that he is half famished under Shylock’s service and adds that he has grown so thin for want of food that his bones and ribs are standing out prominently and can be counted with a finger. (¥) If Launcelot serves Bassanio, he will have the privilege of having new uniforms. According to Launcelot if he works any longer for the Jew, he may become a Jew himself. He means that it is impossible for him to remain ir Shylock’s service any further. 5. (i) When Old Gobbo delays in asking Bassanio to accept his son, Launcelot in his service, Launcelot cuts him short and tells Bassanio -that he wants to serve him. (i) The palm-reading by Launcelot provides the audience a comic relief and foretells the good fortune that may happen in the life of Launcelot (ii) After reading his paim, Launcelot foretells that he will have a long life. He will marry a large number of wives (eleven widows and nnine maids in all). He will escape thrice from drowning and will have a hair-breadth escape once from falling out from a feather bed. (iv) After employing Launcelot, Bassanio tells the Gobbos to goto Shylock and bid him farewell and then reach his house. He tells his servants to get a uniform for Launcelot with more decorations or omamental stripes than those of his other servants. (¥) The old proverb that Launcelot mentions is : ‘The grace of God is wealth enough’. He says that this proverb is equally applicable to Shylock and Bassanio. Bassanio is a good man and has the grace of ‘God. Shylock does not have grace of God. Buthe has ‘wealth enough’. 6 (i) Bassanio speaks these words to Gratiano when the latter makes @ request to him to permit him to accompany him on his trip to Belmont. (ii) To tone down your lively spirits by exercising a little moderation. ACT II Scene 3 21 (iil) Bassanio tells Gratiano that he is uncontrollable, blunt and rough. ‘These faults of his are acceptable to Bassanio and his friends as ‘qualities of his nature. But his wild behaviour may be misunderstood at Belmont, Hence, Bassanio advices him to control his wild behaviour and tone down his lively spirits by exercising moderation. (iv) Bassanio asks Gratiano to behave properly in Belmont because he fears that for people who don’t know Gratiano, his tehaviour will appear as faulty. His wild behaviour will be misunderstood at Belmont and Bassanio may lose all chances of marrying Portia. (¥) Gratiano promises to behave in a proper manner. He says that he will converse gravely and will seldom use an oath. He will carry prayer books in his pockets and look most sedate. During the grace before meals, he will veil his eyes with his hat and solemnly say ‘Amen’. He will do everything that politeness demands and follow all the customs of good manners, as though he is trving to please his grandmother by showing a quiet and serious behaviour. Bassanio tells Gratiano that his rude behaviour will be tolerated for the night because of the party. This is because Bassanio wants that night fo be one of fun and mirth. He will be sorry to see Gratiano in a sad mood. Bassanio would prefer to see him in his wildest spirits and be in his most amusing mood. ACT II Scene 3 CONTEXT QUESTIONS 1. (@ Launcelet left Jessica's house since her father Shylock was a miserly Jew and his stay as his servant has half-famished him, He felt that any further stay with him would make him like the Jew. Besides, Bassanio has accepted him in his service and Launcelot feels that Bassanio is a better master. (i) In the above lines, Jessica says that her house is hell because of her {father’s avarice. Lauincelot with his olly nature and with his antics and nonsensical capering has relieved it of much boredom and dullness. (ii) Jessica shows in words and actions that she liked Launcelots’ presence in the house. He calls him a merry devil and thanks him. for reducing the boredom and dullness in her house. She offers him ‘a ducat too. (iv) Jessica gives to Launcelot the errand of delivering a leter to Lorenzo at supper in Bassanio’s house that night. She advises him to deliver the letter to Lorenzo secretly.O) 2 wi) 7) wv) w) L@ ‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE ~ HANDBOOK Jessica shows herself as a scheming lady when she plans to elope with a Christian boy, Lorenzo without the knowledge of her father. She proves herself to be prudent when she instructs Launcelot to deliver her letter to Lorenzo at Bassanio's pary secretly. Her characteris entirely different from that of Portia. While Portia obeys her deceased father’s will to marry the one who wins the lottery of caskets, Jessica betrays her father and religion to marry Lorenzo. Launcelot bids farewell to Jessica calling her ‘most beautiful pagan’ and later ‘most sweet Jew’. He says that tears prevent his tongue from uttering his feelings. We feel happy for Launcelot and Jessica Launcelotis leaving his miserly master and is undertaking Bassanio's service where he will be happier. Jessica too will soon escape from the ‘hell’ and marry Lorenzo. We feel sorry for Shylock as he is still obstinate, miserly and with evil intentions. Further, he shal lose his daughter as well as money. Jessica regrets being the daughter of Shylock due to his behaviour, hhis being a bad father to her and for making her home ‘hell’ Jessica describes her feeling of being ashamed for being her father’s daughter as a ‘heinous sin’. It is not really a sin because even if she is Shylock’s daughter by birth, she does not actually detest her father but detests his miserliness and tyrannical nature. The given lines mean that although I am his daughter by birth, 1 don't have his habit. Jessica is a lively young girl who rebels against the oppression of her father and the joylessness of her life at home. She calls her home, ‘hell’. She detests her father’s miserliness and tyrannical nature. She affirms that though she is Shylock’s daughter by birth, she does not share his disposition. She is ready to leave her father and elope with Lorenzo, a Christian Lorenzo has to keep the promise of eloping with Jessica that night. Jessica will end the struggle between her desire to marry Lorenzo and her duty to her father, Shylock. ACT II Scene 4 CONTEXT QUESTIONS Lorenzo and his friends plan to disguise themselves at dinner time since they were organising a masquerade for Bassanio's dinner party. During Elizabethan times the masque was an amateur dramatic, ACT II Scene 4 23 yy wy 2 practice usually performed in private houses. The players wore masks and costumes and took part in a torch procession, playing, ‘musical instruments. They were not fully prepared for the disguise. (ii) Jessica, disguised as a boy, is supposed to be the torch-bearer. The ‘actual purpose of having a torch-bearer in the scene is to facilitate the elopement of Jessica with Lorenzo. (iii) Bassanio is giving the dinner party. Launcelot invites Shylock for the dinner party. (iv) The dinner party facilitates the elopement of Jessica with Lorenzo. Jessica is free to leave her house as her father is away at Bassamio's dinner party. Lorenzo and his friends organise a masquerade for Bassanio's dinner party. Jessica joins them as a torch-bearer dressed as a boy and elopes with Lorenzo, (¥) Launcelot brings the letter of Jessica It is an important confidential fetter as it contained Jessica's plan to elope with Lorenzo. On receiving the letter Lorenzo guesses whose letter it is after looking at the handwriting, He declares that the handwriting i familiar to ‘him and the letter is written by a lovely, fair and beautiful hand. (i) Jessica informs Lorenzo about the arrangements she had made to ‘lope with him, She will leave her fathers’ house with money and jewellery, disguised in the uniform of a page-boy. ii) According to Lorenzo, the Jew, Shylock could go to heaven only because of his sweet and gentle daughter. We can conclude that Lorenzo has a high opinion of Jessica since he feels that if at all Shylock ever goes to heaven it will be because of her. He prays that 1no misfortune ever comes to her except for being Shylock’s daughter. Git) Lorenzo wishes that no misfortune ever happens to Jessica, for being, the daughter of a non-believing Jew. She has no stain of sin in her unless her birth is regarded as a sin. (iv) Reference to Shylock as a ‘faithless Jew’ is an example of racial discrimination hinted at in the extract, Christians believed that faithless Jews won't go to heaven. (v) An atmosphere of activity and pre-occupation prevails in this scene. ‘Activities include preparations for the masquerade and Jessica's elopement. Pre-occupation regarding the dinner party dominates the scene. Even Shylock is invited for the party. Launcelot acts as a messenger in this scene. He delivers Jessica's letter to Lorenzo and Lorenzo's reply to Jessica. He invites Shylock for Bassanio's party con Bassanio’s behalf.24 ‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE ~ HANDBOOK | ACT II Scene 5 CONTEXT QUESTIONS 1. Shylock accepts the invitation to dinner out of hatred and to eat the food of the extravagant Christian, Bassanio. In Act I, Scene 3 when Bassanio invites him for dinner he réfuses to dine with Christians since they were pork-eaters. He asserted then that he weuld never cat, drink or pray with Christians although he is ready to do business with them, (i) Shylock is unhappy to accept the invitation this time too as he feels a premonition of some misfortune about to take place. The previous night he had a dream about money-bags which was considered as a bad omen. . Bassanio is referred to as the prodigal Christian because he is a ‘wasteful, who spends money extravagantly which he has borrowed from Shylock Prodigal isa reference to the prodigal son described in the Bible whowasted his share of wealth by lavish and careless living. (Gil) (@) 1 am not bid for love: 1am not invited out of love. (©) Iam right loath fo go: I hate to accept the invitation to dinner. (iv) Jessica and Lorenzo taking advantage of Shylock’s absence from home makes a plan to elope. Jessica uses the occasion to leave home with her father’s money and jewellery. Lorenzo uses the occasion to arrange the masquerade in which Jessica will be the torch-bearer and thus easily elope with him. (¥) Shylock had a dream about money bags on the previous night. To ‘dream about money and all kinds of coins was considered as a ‘bad omen. This made Shylock think that there was some evil being, plotted against him. 2 (i) Shylock is the speaker of the above lines. He is giving this advice to his daughter, Jessica. When Launcelot tells him about the masquerade, he is alarmed for fear that such revelry may become unruly. He hates ‘their frivolity. Hence, he asks Jessica to lock the doors of the house so that no sound of foolish displays may enter his serious house, (3) The speaker is going for Bassanio's dinner party. He is going out for dinner out of hatred for the Christians and to eat the food of the extravagant, Bassanio. Jacob was the grandson of Abraham, the founder of the Jewish race. According to Bible, Jacob, the ancestor of Shylock had a staff that proved a blessing to him. In Geresis 32:12, \ {| ACT II Scene 5 25 Jacob boasts that he had crossed river Jordan only with a staff yet returned with companies (Gi) (a) Do not climb up to see (©) shill notes of the fife. (iv) Christian fools with varnished faces refer to the Christians taking part in the masquerade at Bassanio's dinner party. They were planning to make the speaker's daughter to elope with a Christian, Lorexzo ‘with the speaker's money and jewellery. The speaker had waming of this in the form of a ‘dream where he saw money bags and coins. (¥) The speaker advices his daughter, Jessica to lock up the doors, He tells her not to go upto the windows when she hears the drums and the shrill notes ofthe fife, He tells her not to stretch her neck out to gaze over the public street to look at Christian fools with painted faces. He instructs her to close all the windows of his house so that 16 sound of the foolish display enters his sober house. (The advice was given to Jessica by her father, Shylock. She did hot follow the advice and used the occasion of masquerade to elope with Lorenzo) 3. (The word ‘patch’ in the extract means the clown or the foo! or the jester, In olden days, the professional fools or jesters used to wear multicoloured patched costume. So the word patch is used in the extract for Launcelot. Shylock says that he is sending Launcelot to Bassanio as he would assist Bassanio in his spendthrift habits and waste his borrowed money. (ii) Shylock wishes Bassanio to be ruined because he wants to take revenge upon Antonio and can do so if Bassanio and Antonio fit, to repay the loan on a stipulated date. (ji) By the given words, Shylock means that lazy people cannot live with him. Shylock says that Launcelot is lazy and cannot be his servant, so he allows him to join Bassanio's service. (iv) ‘Borrowed purse’ refers to the three thousand ducats borrowed by Bassanio from Shylock on the basis of the bond signed by Antenio. ‘The money was borrowed to enable Bassanio to go to Belmont and win Portia in marriage after participating in the lottery of caskets. (¥) (@) Shylock asks Jessica to shut the doors to make his house safe from revellers taking part in the masquerade. He quotes an old proverb ‘fast bind, fast find’ which means that if you lock a thing up, you will find it safe. (Leave secure and you will find all secure.) ym the windows;26 ‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK (©) In this scene, Shylock becomes an instrument of fate to further the action in the plot, On the one hand, his desire for revenge upon Antonio is revealed because he goes to the supper to help to consume Bassanio’s borrowed money. He overlooks his religious principles which forbade him dining with Christians. He even ignores the premonitions of impending evil because of his revengeful nature. This provided Jessica an occasion to flee from home with money and jewellery and to elope with Lorenzo, ‘a Christian. Thus, fate has usedf Shylock to further its plans. ACT II Scene 6 CONTEXT QUESTIONS 11. () This scene takes place in the street outside Shylock’s house. Lorenzo has out-dwelt his hour to meet Gratiano and Salarino for the masque. Lovers generally rush to the meeting place long before the appointed. hour. (ii) In Greek mythology, Venus is the goddess of love. Salarino comments that the doves that draw the chariot of Venus, the goddess of love, fly ten times faster when they are journeying to bind new love more firmly, than they do when love is already pledged and certain. (ii) According to Gratiano, people in love are anxious to meet each other. ‘They rush to their meeting places much before the appointed time. ‘Thus, people in love keep punctuality in their meetings and never delay. (iv) (@) he overstays the time fixed by him to meet (0) To bind new love more firmly. ~p ‘At the end the masque is cancelled because Bassanio decides to leave for Belmont earlier than the scheduled time. 2 (i) Lorenzo is in the street outside Shylock’s house. His sweet friends are Salarino and Gratiano. (id His friends said that lovers generally rush to meet each other before the appointed time. Salarino commented that the doves that draw the chariot of Goddess of love, fly ten times faster, when Uney are journeying to find new love than they do when love is once. pledged and certain, ’ ACT Il Scene 6 27 ee (ii) The speaker was kept away so long due to his business affairs. Also he had to’plan for the masquerade, in which he would elope with his lady-love, Jessica (Gv) ‘To play the thieves for wives’ means if ever any of them wishes to do what he is doing that night and steal away a fair lady to be his wife, he will wait as long as they have done to help him on the cecasion. These remarks are quite relevant because Lorenzo wants to give the reason for his delay as well as thank his friends, whom he has kept waiting for a Jong time. () Later in the scene, Lorenzo tells Jessica to come down in the street quickly and that she has to play the part of his torch-bearer in the masque that night, Jessica is shocked and embarrassed at the suggestion. She asks Lorenzo whether she must hold a light to show up her shameful acts — her elopement, theft and male dress. 3. (i) The casket must have valuables like jewellery which Jessica has. stolen from her house. We can conclude that the contents in the casket are valuables since Jessica hands over the casket only after ‘making sure that the person to whom she is giving the casket is her love, Lorenzo. Besides, she tells Lorenzo that it is worth carrying the casket. (Gi) The given words mean that Jessica is much ashamed that she has to change her dress to that of a page-boy. This exchange was needed {for her to elope with Lorenzo. (iii) Love is blind in the context since it makes Jessica dress like a page-boy, steal jewellery and money from her house and be ready to ‘lope with Lorenzo, a Christian. Cupid is the classical god of love, who is always represented as a blind boy with bow and arrows. Jessica says that Cupid, the little blind god of love himself would be shocked and blush if he saw her dressed like a boy. iv) Jessica's feminine nature is highlighted in the extract. Her shyness y at her male clothes shows her feminine modesty as in Elizabethan times women never wore men's clothes. Also she comes down from her house after making sure that the person, who has come to take her is Lorenzo, her lover. 4) A) Magers were dramatic petformances where the players wore masks and costumes and took part in a torchlight procession playing drums and fife. Jessica was to carry the torchlight or candle, If she carries the candle, she will show up her shameful acts — her male attire, the casket contairing her theft and the fact of her eloperet.28 ‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ACT II Scene 7 De a a) CONTEXT QUESTIONS 41. (Portia asks one of her attendants to pull apart the curtains so that the different caskets are made visible. The Prince of Morocco is asked to make the choice. : (ji) After reading the inscription on the three caskets, Morocco asks Portia how he will know if he chooses the correct casket. Portia replies that her portrait willbe inthe right casket. If he selects that cone, then she will be his wife. (ii) The prince of Morocco finally chooses the golden casket. Morocco argues that base lead cannot contain such a saintly person like Portia, Silver which is ten times inferior to gold also cannot hold Portia as she is such a rich gem. So he concludes that Portia, whom many ‘men desire and is most precious must be contained in the golden Casket. Besides, the English have a gold coin with the figure of an angel engraved on it. Porta is an angel and hence her portrait may bbe in the golden casket. (iv), The prince rejects the base lead arguing that it cannot contain such 1 noble person like Portia and silver which is ten times inferior to {old cannot contain Portia as she is such a tich gem. (¥) When the prince opens the casket he finds a skull anc in its eyeless socket a scroll. When the prince leaves the place, Porta calls it a ood riddance and wishes that every suitor like him should make a similar choice. 2. (i) The given words appear on the silver casket. (ji) Morocco initially doubts his worth to deserve the lady because he thinks that though by his own standard, his merits may be very high, yet those merits may not be sufficient enough to deserve Portia, as her reputation is greater than his. (ii) Morocco, after having doubts about his worth to win Portia, later on changes his mind. He feels that he deserves Portia because of fis royal birth, his wealth, his virtues and his upbringing. Above all, he is worthy of her because of his deep affection for her. (iv) (@) And compare your personal worth impartially. (©) A sign of weakness which would bring discredit on myself (¥) Morocco read the inscription on the lead casket which stated that whosoever selects it must be prepared to give all and torisk everything. ACT It Scene 7 29 Morocco declares that no one except a fool will be prepared to risk everything for the sake of dull lead. He argues that lead cannot contain such a noble person like Portia, 3. (i) The Prince of Morocco speaks these words. He is in a room in Portia’ house getting ready to make his choice of caskets. In an earlier scene, ‘Morocco said that with his sword he had slain the emperor of Persia, ‘and a Persian Prince, who had defeated Solyman of Turkey thrice. He boasted that he was courageous enough to confront a hungry lion, defy the most valiant warrior on earth and face the wrath of a mother-bear by separating its young ones from her. i) Shrine isa place where any sacred relic ofa holy person or the image of a saint is kept. In this context, the saint is Portia and the shrine is, Belmont. The Breathing Saint is a reference to Portia. Morocco says that people came from every part of the globe to worship at the holy place which enshrines this living object of adoration — Portia. (iii) Before he makes the choice, the speaker is told by Portia that the correct casket contains her picture and if he chooses it, she will be his wife. (iv) (a) Hyrcanian deserts: Hyrcania was a province of the ancient Persian empire. Hyrcanian deserts were deserts lying in the south of Caspian sea. (b) The watery kingdom: The oceans and its fierce waves do not stop suitors from abroad. () The word ‘they’ refers to the many suitors who come to Belmont from all parts of the globe to woo Portia. While coming they travel through Persian deserts, immense wilderness of Arabia and even cross the oceans. 4. @) The Prince thinks that Portia’s picture is not in the silver casket because silver is ten times undervalued as compared to gold and such a rich gem can never be set in anything less than gold. (i) ‘Sinful thought is the thought that Portia is contained in the silver casket because silver has only a tenth of the value of gold and a rich gem like Portia can never be set in anything less than gold. ‘The ‘coin’ referred to in the extract is the gold coin in England con which the figure of Archangel Michael standing and piercing ‘a dragon was engraved on one side. The coin was called an angel land its value was about ten shillings. Morocco says that the figure of the angel on the coin is engraved on the surface of the coin. It is outside, whereas Portia is an angel, who lies on a golden bed within the casket entirely hidden from view. (iv) On the scrol it is writen that things which make the most brilliant show are not always the truest metal. For the sake of mere gold,30 ‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ac hundreds have risked and sacrificed their lives. Costly gold-plated tombs may be erected, but they have no real value. Decay and death are all they contain. The message tells the Prince that if he had been ‘as wise as his courage and if he had united youthfulness of body, to the wisdom of riper years, the answer would have been a living ‘woman, not a written scroll. (¥) The theme of appearance and reality ig shown in the choice made by the prince. In spite of his good qualities, the prince is materialistic. He only sees the outward appearance and value of the caskets. He thinks that in birth, in fortune and outward graces, he deserves Portia. However, he says nothing about his inner worth, that is, of his good deeds, character and education. He chooses the gold casket for its bright and glittering appearance. The prince is motivated by pride and admiration, not true love. If he loved her, he would have been ready to risk everything, for her. ACT II Scene 8 a CONTEXT QUESTIONS 1. (i In the given lines, Salanio says that he has not seen such an outburst of anger, so confused, so strange, excessive and frequently changing as is displayed by the Jew. Shylock discovers that his daughter has eloped after robbing him of his money and jewellery. ‘This makes him excited and furious with grief and despair. He gives vent to it by an exhibition of passionate excitement and anger which is strange, excessive and frequently changing. i) Earlier, Shylock roused the Duke with his complaints against Lorenzo and Jessica for robbing him and eloping. He made such a disturbance that the Duke was obliged to attend to his demands. He feven accompanied the Duke to search for Lorenzo and Jessica on board Bassinio's ship. By the time they reached the place, the ship hhad already set sail. The Duke was told by someone that Lorenzo and Jessica had been seen sitting together in a gondola. ii) Besides money, Jessica has taken away from Shylock some jewels, precious stones and diamonds. (iv) (@) double ducats: coins of double ducats. (b) a sealed bag: a bag that is securely sealed to ensure the security of its contents. Shylocks' lamentations add to the humour in the play. He is depicted 'as a comic character in the scene. The manner in which he laments ACT I Scene 8 a1 the loss of his daughter and his ducats amuses the audience; hylock’s repetition of ‘O my daughter! O my Christian ducats” indicate hs greedy nature and shows that Jessica is another possession for him like the ducats. The manner in which all the boys of Venice follow him and repeat his words of lamentation in @ tone of mockery and jeer a: him further add to the humour in the scene. (©) In his excitement, Shylock utters confused cries for his daughter, ‘who had eloped with a Christan, taking with her, his ducats and jewellery. He wants justice from the law. 2. (i) ‘Let good Antonio keep his day’ means let worthy Antonio make sure that he has the money to pay Shylock on the appointed day. If he fils to keep his day, Shylock would take his revenge on Antonio. (i) In his conversation with a Frenchman, Salarino heard that a richly laden ship fom Italy had been wrecked in the narrow channel which divides England and France. The news was startling because Salarino thought of Antonio's ship and wished that it might not be one of his ships. (ii) Salarino wished that the wrecked ship might not be one of Antonio's ships (iv) Salanio advises Salarino to tell Antonio what he has heard about a shipwreck. However, he advises him not to tell Antonio about the news immediately for it may make him sad. (©) The news given by the Frenchman creates a suspense in the story. “The possibilty of the wreckage of one of Antonio's ships casts a loom since it may imply that Antonio would not be able to make payment of the loan on the day the bond is due. After hearing the news, Shylock is happy that he could take his revenge on Antonio. He calls him a bankrupt and insists on the execution of the bond. 3. (@ Antonio has said these words at the time of bidding farewell to Bassanio, when the latter was about to embank on his journey to ‘Belmont. Salarino quotes his words here. (@ (@) Bassanio, do not spoil your plan for my sake. (©) But stay as long as it would be necessary to attain your objective (i) Antonio advises Bassanio to stay at Belmont as long as it would be necessary for winning Portia and tells him not to bother about the tond. He advises Bassanio to be cheerful and devote himself entirely to win his lady-love in a most suitable manner. tiv) While parting, Antonio's eyes were filled with tears. He turned his face away and extended. his hand behind him. Then, moved by his Jove, he held the hands of Bassanio and they parted from each other. It shows that there is great love and affection between them.32 ‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK (¥) Salanio and Salarino provide the information about recent events. ‘They report Shylock’s fury and parody his behaviour. They are ‘worried about Antonio and go quickly to look for him and cheer him up. They do not take part in the action of the play, but keep the action going when the chief characters are absent. At the end. Of the scene, Salanio and Salarino decided to look for Antonio and raise his low spirits with some amusement. ACT II Scene 9 CONTEXT QUESTIONS 1. (@ Tohonour Arragon as prince, trumpets were sounded as he entered the room and Portia addressed him as ‘noble prince’. (i Arragon is bound by the oath to observe three conditions. Firs, he must never reveal to any other person which of the caskets he has selected. Second, if he does not win Portia, he should not woo any other lady. Third, if he chooses wrdigly he mus: depart at once without further words. (ii) Arragon explicitly kept the last condition at the end of the scene. (iv) Te is not wise to arrange marriages through a lottery system where chance plays a significant role. Portia initially feels that her fate is sealed by the lottery of caskets designed by her father. However, later she accepts her father's will and asserts that she will abide by it and would semain a virgin like Diana if no suitor wins her in marriage. Nerissa justifies the lottery of caskets saying that her father was a virtuous man, who must have had her well-being at heart. So, according to het father’s will she will be chosen by someone ‘who will truly love her. () Prince Arragon is too proud and self-opinionated. While making his selection, he calls the common people as foo! mulitude” and again as ‘barbarous multitudes”. He says that he will rot act according to what common men choose and put himself on the level of the ignorant and the foolish. Secondly, Arragon thinks himself to be most deserving because of his inherited nobility. 2. (i) The inscription on the gold casket says ‘who chooses me shall gain what many men desire’. The speaker chooses the silver casket (ii) Arragon says that the words ‘many men’ probably refer to the foolish majority, who are so slow-witted and who have 30 litle | ‘wisdom that they judge only by appearances anc outward glitter. ‘Their untaught eyes never see the inner meaning of things, but is content to remain on the outside lke the swallow, | ACT I Scene 9 33. (ii) Arragon compares the mulitude to the martlet. The marte, instead Gf soeking a sheltered place for its nest, constructs ft in the most exposed places like the outer all, unprotected from, any stormy ‘weather or any accident which may occur. Similarly, the foolish Common people wi judge by the outside of things al into errors and calamities (G8) (@ open to disaster and in the very path of danger. {b) Tdon’t put myself at the level ofthe ignorant and foolish common people (©) The theme of appearance and realty is brought out in the choice of Caskets The abifty fo distinguish between reality and appearance dfepends not on intelligence but on insight and deeper human values ‘Arfagon’s choice of the sive casket is influenced by materialise Considerations and seiftove and not by love for Portia. 3. (@ Portia’ father devised such a choice of caskets for Portia because he wanted her to be chosen by someone who truly loves her. The inscription on the silver casket says, ‘who chooses me shall get as muchas he deserves” (i) Words on the inscription on the silver casket appeal to Arragon because the word ‘deserves’ meaning “merit” in the inscription appeals to him Fe thinks himself to be the most deserving. He fees that there are many who succeed without having any inher merit Bat he ‘deserves because of his inherited nobility (ii) To try to cheat fortune and vrin something without merit. It means no one ought tobe allowed to deceive and trick fortune by asking her for what he does not deserve Gv) Arragon further tells that no man should aspire to be honoured Unless he deserves it Arragon wishes that all the positions of rank, dignity and ofices were bestowed on the deserving instead of being Obtained cishorestly. If this happens, many’ low ranking, people ‘would be separated out from the ranks of the truly honourable. (v) Arragon finally chooses the silver casket. After making the choice ‘Arragon is dumb-founded and very disappointed with what he finds in the casket. He pauses silently fora long time before speaking Fe says that there is such a difference between that ceatare ard the picture he hoped to see, He asks Portia whether he deserves no tnow than the head of a fool, He wants to know whether that is his paize and whether he deserves nothing more than that. 4. () Arzagon speaks these words after opening the silver casket. He is in a mood of disappointment. He came to woo Portia with one foolish head of his own. (i) The second head he got was from the silver casket. The scroll attached tothe second head says that silver metal of the casket wasen: 34 ‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE ~ HANDBOOK tested seven times by fire. A mind which never makes an error of judgment must be similarly tested seven times. Some people find their happiness in shadows and unreality. Their happiness is therefore only shadowy and unreal, There are many living fools whose foolishness js hidden by their silvery-hair because they have the appearance of ‘being venerable and wise. One of these is the fool's head concealed in the silver casket. Arragon will always have a foolish head. He should now leave as his chance is over. (ii) The speaker chooses the silver casket. The motto ofthe silver casket appeals to the speaker. It says ‘who chooses me shall get as much seine deserves’, He feels that he deserves Portia because of his inherited nobility. (iv) After the departure of the prince, Portia says that there is another moth which has burnt itself in the flame of the candle. These people, when they choose, the wisdom of their superficial knowledge makes them look utterly foolish and lead them to make the wrong choice. (v) After the Prince’s departure, Nerissa utters an old saying “Hanging ‘and winning goes by destiny”. It means that it is fate that decides ‘what happens to one, whether one is to be hanged or to be wedded. Itimplies thet itis destiny that has saved Portia from two unsuitable suitors and it is destiny that may give her a worthy suitor. 5. (i) This scene takes place in a room in Portia’s house at Belmont. Gratiano has alighted at the gate. (Gi) Gifts of rich value indicate the great regard and love Bassanio has for Portia, (ii) In the last three Fines of the extract, the servant says that he has not ‘seen so generous an ambassador of love. Even a day in April, the ‘Sweetest spring day, coming to give people a foretaste of bright and bountiful summer, is not comparable to this gorgeous messenget, ‘who rides in advance of his master. (iv) Portia asks the servant to stop speaking because he is so generous in his praise that she is dreading to hear him say that he is some qelative of his. Then Portia tells Nerissa to come quickly along with hher to meet this messenger of Cupid, who has arrived in such a courteous manner. Nerissa prays to Cupid, the god of love, that the lord announced be Bassanio if such is his will. (\) Portia tells the servant to be silent because he is too extravagant in his praises that she is dreading to hear him say that he is some relative of his. “The plot of the play makes further progress in this scene. This scene, the second of the casket scenes, is important because it fills up the interval of the three months between the signing up of the bond land the forfeiture. It also seems to reveal the wisdom of the device ACT II Scene 1 35 of caskets because i shows that the results are not a mere lotery. It proves that only the person, who rightly loves, will choose rightly. ‘This scene also, reveals to the audience which is the right casket. It will heighten the suspense during Bassanio’s selection later. This scene also keeps up the theme of appearance and reality. ACT III Scene 1 L@ wi aa) ” 2 a CONTEXT QUESTIONS ‘The scene takes place in a street in Venice. In the firs line ‘she’ refers to the rumour of report which is personified as a tatling old woman. When Salarino talks about Antonio's ship, Salanto only wishes that Rumour may prove to be a big liar in this case as any old woman, ‘who ever gossiped with her neighbours over her ginger bread cakes and made her neighbours believe that she mourned sincerely for the death of her third husband. Earlier, it was told that Antonio's ship was wrecked in the waters of the English channel at a spot known as Goodwin Sands, a most perilous sand bank. The news about the ship-wreckage spread at the Rialto or the Exchange where merchants met forbusiness transactions. ‘The given words mean: ‘without speaking much or beating about the bush That is without being gully of any lengthy, ielevant ot tedious speech or going outside plain direct speech. (ivy Shylock was pleased to hear about the loss of Antonio's ship. He calls him a spendthrift and a beggar, who used to come smiling, so self-satisfied to the market. He must take care to redeem his bond in time. In the given extract, Salarino and Salanio express their feelings of concern and sympathy for Antonio. Salanio calls him “good ‘Antonio’, honest Antonio and wants a better adjective to describe ‘him’ Finally, Salanio conveys the news that Antonio has lost a ship. Salarino hopes that this may be the end of his losses. Shylock tenters the scene at this time. Salarino says that he is aware of the fact that his daughter, Jessica has eloped. He then tells Shylock that there is a difference between him and his daughter as is between black and white. Further, there is a difference between his blood and hers like there is between ordinary red wine and the expensive white German wine. ‘The flight of Jessica is being talked about. She has flown to Belmont. Jessica has flown with Lorenzo.36 ‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK Re (i) Just before the arrival of Shylock, the news about the Antonio's thip-wreck in the English Channel at a spot called Goodwin Sands is given. (ii) The given words mean that itis the nature of a fully feathered young, bird‘to leave the nest when it i old enough. He means to say that Jessica was old enough to run away with her lover, Lorenzo. (iv) Shylock took all possible steps to get back his eloped daughter. He ) thea the Duke for justice and even persvaded him to check the ship in which Bassanio left for Belmont. Later it was said that someone saw Lorenzo and Jessica in a gondola. Shylock engaged his friend ‘Tubal for finding and bringing Jessica to him. (©) After the extract, Salarino compares the character of Jessica and Shylock: He says that Jessica is a complete contrast to Shylock as black is to white or a8 ordinary red wine is to expensive white Rhenish wine. 3. (@) A ‘bankrupt’ means a person who has not enough money to pay off his just debts. Prodigal’ means a spendthrift who spends money tecklesily. The man has gone bankrupt because his ship has been ‘wrecked in the English Channel with its rich cargo. Heis aspendthrift who has mismanaged his affairs and has gone bankrupt. That is why he is called a prodigal by Shylock. (i) The Venetian Stock Exchange where the merchants used to met to transact business deals, was known as the Rialto. The man used to go to Rialto smiling and so self-satisfied because he was sure ‘of his financial position as he owned a number of ships carrying merchandise to the four comers of the world. Shylock says these ‘words to compare Antonio's financial position in the past with his present bankrupt condition. ‘The man referred tain the extract. Antonio, used to insult Shylock. He used to disgrace him, laugh at his losses, mock at his gains, despise his race and interfere in his business deals simply because he was a Jew. (Gv) The bankrupt caused loss to Shylock in Venice by lending money ‘without interest and thus, affecting Shylock’s business of lending, noney at exhorbitant rate of interest. {(¥) The bankrupt is likely to go into a Toss as his ship has been wrecked with is Fic cargo. Besides, he is to pay three thousand ducats he had borrowed from Shylock for Bassanio. Such a loss will favour Shylock to pursue his plan of revenge. 4. (@ The thief referred to in the extract is Shylock’s daughter, Jessica. The thief had stolen his money, gold and gems, including a diamond costing two thousand ducats. After the theft, Shylock has to spend ‘money to locate Jessica. So he has suffered loss upon loss due to the theft, ACT Ml Scene 1 37 (i) Tubal is another Jew, a friend of Shylock. He went to Genoa to search for Jessica, who has eloped with Lorenzo, (ii) Tubal brought the news that he went to the places in Genoa where he heard some news about Jessica but could not find her. (iv) Shylock uses the expressions satisfaction and revenge in the context of his efforts to retzieve his lost money and eloped daughter, His daughter, Jessica had stolen money, precious stones, and many other jewels. His efforts to locate her and retrieve them have not succeeded. So, he has neither the satisfaction of getting back his lost daughter land money nor taking revenge on the Christians, who caused her elopement. (v) One of Antonio's large ships has been wrecked on the way back from Tripolis. This was the ill-1uck that befell Antonio. Shylock was happy over the news as his chances of taking revenge on Antonio ‘became brighter 5. (i) Tubal says that Antonio is undone because he has heard from some of the sailors he met in Genoa that one of Antonio's large ships has been wrecked on the way back from Tripolis. In the context of the theft, Shylock makes a reference to his bachelor days. His wife Leah gave a furquoise ring to him before their marriage. His daughter Jessica stole that zing before eloping and exchanged it for a monkey. (i) In this scene, Shylock is in a mood of grief. He feels as if he is tH’ ‘only one in the world suffering from ill luck. Tubal is said to be torturing Shylock by giving alternate accounts of Antonio's losses and Jessica's extravagances. He alternately makes Shlock elated and depressed for apparently no reason. He elates him by the news of wreckage of Antonio's ship on its way back from Tripolis, while he depresses him by saying that he could not find Jessica and that she had spent eighty ducats on one evening and exchanged a ring with a merchant for a monkey. (ii) Antonio's misfortune makes Shylock elated because he will be able to take his revenge on Antonio. He will punish Antonio by exacting a pound of flesh from any part of his body. By his revengeful action, he would avenge his hatred for Antonio and the Christians, Further, if Antonio is removed from Venice he can make profits as he likes. (vi) A synagogue is a Jewish house of prayer. Shylock’s joumey to the synagogue gives us the clue that he will take revenge on Antonio Shylock believes in the old Mosaic law, which prescribed an eye for fan eye, and a tooth for a toath. So, Shylock feels he is justified in taking revenge against an enemy of his religion and race. (©) Shylock’s passion for revenge and his complete justification of itis given in this scene. He explains the insults he has suffered unjustly and his right to take revenge. He believes that he is doing as his,‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK enemies would do. The fierceness of his thirst for revenge is expressed in his final threat ‘I will have the heart of him’. Shylock states that Jews are no different from Christians and they will follow their ‘example in the matter of revenge too. ACT III Scene 2 L 2 CONTEXT QUESTIONS (i) This scene takes place in a room in Portia’s house at Belmont. The first lin refers to Portia’s maidenly modesty according to which she hhas no other choice except to think, though she may not express her. thoughts. Portia says enough to convey to Bassanio that she loved him. She is doubtful whether Bassanio has understood what she has Said and wanted to explain further. But then she is taken over by her maidenly modesty (ii) At the end of her speech, Portia says that she spoke at length to siretch the time and delay to the fullest extent Bassanio’s act of choosing the caskets. This shows that she has feelings of love for Bassanio and does not want to lose him soon. in her speech, she repeats her wish to make him stay in Belmont for a month or two before he hazards the choice of the caskets (iii) Portia cannot teach Bassanio to choose the correct casket as she has promised her father not to reveal the secret of the caskets to anyone. She would never break her pledged word. If Bassinio were to make an incorrect choice, Portia would have wished that she had broken promise. (iv) The given lines mean, ‘May your eyes be confounded. They have cast a spell on me and divided me’. Portia says that Bassanio’s eyes hhave cast a spell on her and divided her for she no longer seems to bbe herself. She says that half of her belongs to him and the other half to her. Even if the latter half is hers, it would still be his. So she is entirely his. (¥) The extract shows that as a lover, Portia loves Bassanio and does ‘not want to lose him and wants to detain him with her for a month ‘or two. Also she wants to train him how to choose the right casket. ‘She says that Bassanio's eyes have bewitched her and divided her. She affirms that she is completely his. But as a dutiful daughter she will never guide Bassanio to choose the right casket as it would break her promise to her father. () It means: If Bassanio were ‘to die’, that i, to lose the love for Portia, by choosing the wrong casket, then his end will be accompanied by the fading music, like the swan that sings before it dies. There was ‘a contemporary belief that the swan, which is usually mute, sang ACT III Scene 2 39 beautiful song just before its death. The swan-song was sung only (i) Porta calls for music frst ofall to calm the excitement in her own, heart and her tension when Bassanio is choosing the casket, She further defends her action saying that if Bassanio fails he will bid him his last farewell in the midst of music and thus will be like the swan that sings before it dies, If Bassanio succeeds, the music will add to the festive atmosphere of the occasion, making everyone happy. (iti) Portia explains the condition ifBassanio fails to choose the right casket. In that case, he will have a swan-like end. Making the comparison more explicit, Portia says that her eyes with tears will be Bessanio’s watery grave as the river is the grave for the dying swan. (iv) It Bassanio is successful in the choice of caskets then the music also represents the sweet notes of music that awaken the dreaming bridegroom on the morning of his marriage and tells him that his wedding day has come. It refers to an old English custom of playing music under the windows of the bridegroom on the morning of the wedding day. () In the given scene, Portia acts as a romantic heroine. Her maidenly modesty and bright wit is seen when she detains Bassani> a litle longer while making his choice. She accomplishes the difficult task of revealing to Bassanio her affection for him. When Bassanio chooses correclly, she is happy and surrenders herself, her property and her servants to Bassanio. She also offers him a ring and makes him promise never to part with i. The theme of love versus wealth is developed in the scene by comparing the choice of easket made by Morocco and Arragon with that of Batsanio, Morac andl Arsagon were led, in their choice by ‘appearance of gold and silver. On the other hand, Bassanio was not deceived with outward appearance. Therefore, he rejected the gaudy gold and pale silver and instead chose the unattractive meagre lead. Bassanio was able to make the right choice as his motive was love rather than wealth. 3. @) Alcides refers to young Hercules, son of Alcaeus. In Greek mythology, hheis depicted asa strong and courageous youth. ‘Virgin Tribute’ refers to Hesione, the unmarried daughter of the Trojan King, Hesione was tied to a rock on the sea-shore of Troy, ex very moment to be devoured by the sea-monster. Hercules saved the ‘Virgr Tribute’ by killing the sea-monster and setting her fre. Here Portia compares her tension and suspense while Bassanio makes his choice of caskets to the anxiety of Hesione, waiting for the sea-monster's attack. She sees Bassano as having more love than Alcides. (@) Portia compares Bassanio to Hercules by saying that Bassanio has as much dignity of bearing as Hercules had, but he goes with much more love than Hercules, Hercules did not go to save Hesicne out of=—-(W) Portia asks Bassanio, ‘Go Hercules’ because in her opinion the ‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE ~ HANDBOOK love but to get the horses fered as a reward. Here Porta compares eral to Hesione, who was red na scien to a aeons Similarly, if Bassanio chooses the wrot she wi into the clutches of an unworthy suitor. ne cust Mall into (i) (hooting Troy: the loud lamentations ofthe pede of sacrifice of Hesione. ae el ? * (0) Blered visages: means tearstained faces, The reference is made to the Trojan women who had assembled on the beach ith tearstained faces to walt and watch the result ofthe encounter between the seamonster and Hercules (©) The issue of the exploit: Ik means the outcome of the rescue operation. Tk refer to the outcome of the encounter between Hercules and the seasmonste. (iv) “The rest aloof refered to in the extract are people in the room tke Nerissa, Gratiano and others whom Porta compares to Trojan ‘women. Dardanian wives aze Trojan women. Dardans was the Hiythical ancestor of the Trojans, who were cated Dardanians. The “Tojan women had assembled on the beach with tearstaned faces Swat and watch the res ofthe encounter between Herules and sea-monster, similarity between Bassanio and Hercules is complete and perfect Portia tells Bassanio to go ahead and choose the casket. While he {choosing she will be watching the test with much more anxiety than he, who has to make the choice. She says that if he lives, that is, he succeeds, she lives. If he fails, it is death for her, 4. (i) Inthe given extract the theme of appearance and reality is highlighted. ascot commenting on te casts ays that «prety eenor may often hide a rotten interior. The multitude is always led astray by decorations nd adormeni of wows kids, He sighting sme by providing the examples of lawyers, religious heresies thd eases of dards, eho assure oulward ages of lou. (Gi) Bassanio says that every wrong has some appearance of virtue. He tplain it through the ample of lawyer lawsuit, possession of a pleasing voice and attractive presence in a lawyer, entirely hide ‘any appearance of wrong in the cause he pleads. The orament of the: ivés an unsound plea, the false appearance of a good ality. Similarly religious heresies can be glossed over if a preacher rakes them appear as true and just. (ii) ‘Stairs of sand’ refer to a stairway made of shifting sand. Such a stairway is unreliable and gives way beneath the footstep it should ‘support. These stairs are compared to cowards, who cultivate beards to give them the appearance of great warriors like Hercules and Mars. The manly appearance is cultivated only to deceive the world into thinking that they are formidable. act OI Scene 2 41 {iv) The Blizabethans looked upon the liver as the seat of courage. A (v) Hercules was a great hero in Greek mytho 58 @ co) Cm) @v) o) 6 @ Gi) brave man’s liver was said to be red with blood. Cowards were spoken of as having white livers. and Mars was the Roman god of war. Hercules and Mars are referred to here because they, with heir beards, stand for strength, manliness and bravery. Bassanio says that if we take the case of beauty we find that an imitation of Its easily obtainable and may be brought in the market. ‘The cosmetics which enhance beauty can be bought by weight in a chemist’s shop. These bring about a marvellous change in the Sppearance of women. The word lightest is punned on. Bassanio keane that the addition of cosmetics makes a woman ‘light’ that is fair coloured, The other meaning of ‘lightest’ is to be frivolous and fickleminded. ‘Crisped snaky golden locks’ refer to false hair that women wear Bassinio says that the shining, golden tresses whose ringlets are tossed about by the playful breeze, seen on the fappesr to be real. Actually it is false hair and originally it belonged to a dead woman, who is lying in the grave. ‘The ‘dowry of a second head’ refers to the false hair (wig) worn by & woman, that appear to be real but actually is a gift from some dead woman, ie, it Originally belonged to a dead woman who is lying in the grave. Shake Tefers to the popular custom of wearing wigs among the Elizabethan women. Bassanio says that outward adomment is always deceptive. It is like the attractive but treacherous sea-shore that leads people into perilous waters. Bassanio asserts that appearances are deceptive. Two examples he ‘mentions are First, the shining, golden false hair that some women wear, Though they look real, they belong to a dead person. The “Second example is that of a lovely scarf that hides the ugly face of fan Indian beauty. This is deceptive as people expect to see better than an Indian beauty when the scarf is removed. ‘The gentle scroll was in the lead casket. On the scroll it was written that since he has not chosen by mere outward appearances, he may be fortunate and make his choice as wisely as he has done. Since this fortune has come to him, he should be satisfied and seek nothing ‘more for his happiness. If he is pleased with his luck and feels that fate has brought him happiness, he should go to his beloved and claim her as his own with a loving kiss. “The speaker has won Portia. The speaker chose the correct casket, i.e, lead casket containing Portia's portrait. Its simple looks impressed Bassanio more than the protestations of gold and silver. Besides, the inseription on the casket stated that the man who chooses it, must give and hazard his whole being which means his true love.42 ‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE ~ HANDBOOK (A) The meter sete og te ny end dm era so with a loving kiss and receive a kiss from her. ey ein ant eee pier a gat pan fy Te fr 0) Gi nyt omens The tte ede Saar inne! i. Tatoo eb © esa ies en hg in some contest, like one of two prizé-fighters. He compares himself sie Soe Ie eof ro pegs aoe oo ern LS Bit of oy afer doning he oe ok, ned Ae Wahl ere ea ae ete fang he ret Sets the see tie ppm or hin Dey aaa assse oases aes ee her servants, herself and all her possessions to him. (Paar iofoto ey tine ter Cae a ree coer coed teens ees reser ab eer oe meen cari eee ee fee atts ean, Fota gin. ig She ware 2 ee hg oie ey St we ain eye nt ed eal es the det Sr s o pl el oe py er Oe feel Cor aeeS eee neo eee Fe eae ett i tat your ove fre Here Portia assers that if Bassario loses the ring she has given him, secrete ar aan ee to him. sive her the right (0 Att Poss pach, mts «Tore wah Suet a Ace ota ie ne epee oh emigre Resin rng bance Soaeenag made Nn secs ieee nec, bmn, promi Tori th he he sg ne bee etl fe 4. (0 Aber Bean semen attri sat one Speeches of Portia and Bassanio Nersea greets them and wishes thes, soy aie cae pete Conan : gare ee i or Geta be showered upon them. a ne (@ Golan muna tance pa uns eed ete Sree mat Deco pat him pre fave — a ea (ai) Besanio gives his consent most hearty provided Gratiano can get ACT III Scene 2 es (Gv) While Bassanio woned Lady Portia, Gratiano wooed her lady-in- waiting, Nerissa, However, the promise that Gratiano received from Nerissa was that Nerissa would love Graiano provided that Bassanio had the good fortune of winning the love of Portia by selecting the right casket, Thus, Gratiano’s fortune too stood on the caskets. {(¥) Gratiano-Nerissa episode has added humour to the story. The romance and marriage of Nerissa and Gratiano strengthen the old belief that characters in association with nobility are themselves ennobled. Gratiano experienced the joy of love in the company of Bassanio. Nerrisa being educated by her mistress Portia, was able to win a gentleman's love. Gratiano, with a keen sense of humour arouses much mirth and laughter in the scene. Lorenzo and Jessica. They are united when Jessica elopes with his father Shylock’s money and jewels. Shylock loses the case against ‘Antonio and Jessica gets half the share of Shylock’s wealth, 9. (i) The scene takes place in a room in Portia’s house at Belmont, Salerio brings the letter from Antonio to Bassanio. (Gi) Portia concludes that there is some bad news in the letter because as soon as Bassanio reads the letter, his face tums pale and he becomes greatly agitated. According to Portia, the bad news in the letter must be about the loss of someone loved by Bassanio. (Gi) Portia begs of Bassanio to tell her the cause of his sorrow as she and Bassano are one, and she ought to hate in everything that happens to him. Hence, she asks Bassanio to tell her what news that has brought. (iv) Bassanio tells Portia that the letter contains some of the most tunwelcome news, He tells Portia that he is deeply indebted to a kind friend. This friend for his sake agreed to a bond with his worst enemy, a man, who hates him. He did this solely to supply Bassanio ‘with the money he needed to come to Belmont. Bassanio looks upon ‘Antonio's letter as if i is his body and the cruel words of the letter ‘as wounds from which blood is gushing out. He then tells that all the ships of Antonio have been wrecked on the dangerous rocks. (W) Salerio said that Shylock was a greedy man, who could destroy, another man for the sake of money and taking revenge. So twenty merchants, the Duke and the noblemen could not persuade him to five up revenge dim ofthe bond Therefore even Antoni sufficient money, Shylock would not accept it because his aim ‘was to inflict pain on his enemy, ie,, Antonio. [At the end of the play, Shylock lost the bond and his desire for revenge recoiled on him and he had to lose his property, his daughter and his religion. 410, @) Tubal and Chus are two Jewish friends of Shylock. When Jessica was at home, she had heard Shylock swearing to Tubal and Chus that he will have the penalty carried out and that a pound of Antonio'sTHE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ERT ANDBOOK flesh would give him more pleasure than to be paid the debt twenty times over. (i) The Duke, law and influential citizens would use all their powers of persuasion to prevent Shylock from taking his cruel forfaiture. (ii) Ifthe forfeiture is denied to Shylock as per the terms of the bond, there was the danger of Shylock taking legal action against the city’s governors and call in question the equality of rights of foreigners With the citizens of Venice. Thus, there was the danger of Shylock bringing discredit to the business in Venice. (Gv) In terms of payment to Shylock in cash, Portia offers to pay him double the amount, Then she says to give him double of six thousand and then three times of that. Later she says that she will give him ‘enough gold to pay the debt twenty times over. (©) Since the payment of the penalty means his death, Antonio's last wish is to see Bassanio before he dies. He says that it will cancel all bonds and obligations between Bassanio and him. However, he adds that Bassanio should do as he wishes and should not pay any attention to Antonio's welfare. Antonio's last wish shows his affection for Bassaio and that he lives only for him. 11. (i) Portia gives money to Bassanio and sends him to rescue Antonio. She makes a plan to disguise herself asa lawyer and Nessew os hoy assistant and then go to Venice to rescue Antonio fem the clatches of Shylock () () ‘call me wif: make me your wife, get maried to me. (©) “With an unguet soul witha disturbed, gi sticker mind (i) Bassanio was supposed to go to Venice and offer double the amount of bond to Shylock and cancel the bond If he did nt agree to tot Bassano isto offer him, double of sb thousand ducks or three times that amount or even twenty tes the bond stout, (0) Portia and Nerissa were to stay in Belmont as spinsters or widows after theic husbands Teave for Venice. But in fet Uy Sid not ao so. Portia and Nerissa went to Venice in disguise of awyer aa hes asta respcily and played a constutve let sing Antonio from the clutches of Shylock. (2) This scene is important for the forvrard movement ofthe storyline. 2 completes the casket story and brings iin divect contact wilh tho ater stories ~ the bond story, Jessa Lorenzo ove sory and the "ing sory. The ring story begins in this see, The bond sony ie revealed through Antonio's leter and Bassani’s retun to Venice eis tre that afer the choice ofthe casket by Bassano, Portia takes over leadership in the play. When Antonio isin trouble, she offers Bassano twenty times the bond amount to save Anton, She herself dons the guise ofa lawyer and using a perfect blend of mercy and Justice saves Antonio. ACT II Scene 3 a ACT III Scene 3 CONTEXT QUESTIONS 1. (@ Shylock asks the jailer to guard Antonio closely and see that he does He tells him not to plead with him to show mercy to ‘Antonio’ The extract shows that Shylock was against Anton. He insists on having the bond saying that he has taken an oath to exact, the full penalty of the bond. Besides, he says that since Antonio called hhim a ‘dog’. Antonio should beware of his teeth, as they can bite. (Gi) (@) lent out money gratis: lending money without interest. (©) beware my fangs: beware of my teeth, That is beware of my revenge. (ii) After this extract, Shylock angrily tells the jailer that he is surprised at his being so foolish as to yield to Antonio's request and to bring, hhim out in the open. He censures the jailer for bringing him out. {) The short scene shows the determination of Shylock t extract the ipulated in the bond. His passion for revenge is reveale Inthe com when he surapely ceo the alr fo par Antonio closely and see that he does not escape. He refers to the bond five times in the scene and refuses to listen to Antonio's pleas. His determination 19 sealed by his statement that he has gworn an oath that he will have his bond, (©) Shylock wants the Duke to allow him to have his bond and do justice ‘with him. The scene is important because it brings the action near to the Trial Scene. Tt adds suspense to the bond story as it shows that it is impossible for Antonio to escape Shylock’s revenge. This scene fills the interval before the Trial scene and allows time for Bassanio's journey from Belmont to Venice. 2. (i) When Antonio's continuous pleas to Shylock to listen to him fail az fe ints on having i bond Antena gel eng He sys that Shylock wants to take away his life because felped Shy ocks debtors out of hs clutches when they apprsnched him for help. This has made Shylock to hate him. (ii) Salarino says that he is sure that the Duke will never permit the penalty of the bond to hold good in law. (Gi) Strangers referred to in the extract are the traders and businessmen from other countries doing business in Venice. Here, spectfc reference isto Shylock, aJew, a foreigner. They do trade and business in Venice. Gv) The Duke eannot deny the course of law to the strangers Firstly, the rights and privileges of trade that foreigners have in Venice cannotTHE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK be denied. If denied they will expose the justice system of the state to reproach. Secondly, prosperity of Venice depends on its trade with foreign nations. If injustice is done to Shylock, other foreigners will raise alarm and objections. They will loose confidence in the justice system and it will affect the trade in the city, (¥) Antonio's final wish is to see Bassanio before he dies. This shows Ns great love and affection for Bassanio, Antonio resigns himself is fate but takes comfort in the thought that he is going to die for the sake of his friend, _ fongiod ACT III Scene 4 ed CONTEXT QUESTIONS 1. () Antonio is referred as a true gentleman, He is in need of reli as Shylock insists on the penalty forthe forfeiture of the bond, which is pound of flesh from any part of his body. (a) The relationship between the gentlemen, ie, Antonio and Bas is that of love, affection and friendship. Antonlo ready agree to Shylock’s bond to give money to Bassanio to woo Ports andl never regres his generosity even atthe forfeiture ofthe bend. His last wish isto See Bassano before he dies. Bassano recprocaen the same sentiments by rushing back to Venice soon alters matiage to-sae his frend. (i) (a) a: equal yoke of lve: by the same bond of love. (©) O ineaments,of manners and of sprit: features, mind, behaviout ard disposition Gi) Portia says that when two people are cose friends and are united by the te of mutual love, their fo natures may have many in common, There must be a certain similarity of features, mind, behaviour and disposition. This makes her conclude tat the trac gentleman, ie, Antonio must belie Bassano, (9) Portia asks Lorenzo to take care and management of her household tl she and Nerisea live in prayer and meditation in © monastery and tl her husband comes back. In the given scene shows Portia’s intellectual ability, her devotion te Basia and her admiration for Anton. She fe Ut se toni is lke in mind and personality, her admiral for Antonio is justified. na senieaton 2. i) The given words mean the control and management of my’ : of my house, Portals Lorenao that she gives into hishands the ene and care of hr mansion tl the retun of er husband ee ACT IIT Scene 4 a7 (Gi) Portia gives Lorenzo the complete control and management of her ‘mansion till her husband’s return. Portia says that she has taken a secret oath to pass her days in religious exercises and holy meditation ‘with Neri alone as her companion until the return of her husband. (Gi) Portia’s intention in leaving her home was to go to Venice to save ‘Antonio from the clutches of Shylock by disguising herself as lawyer. She needed Nerissa to act as lawyer's clerk. (iv) Portia was leaving her house under the pretext of spending her days in religious exercises and holy meditation in the company of Nerissa till the retum of her husband. (¥) Portia says that during her absence Lorenzo would not find any difficulty in running her house because she has instructed her servants to accept Lorenzo and Jessica as their master and mistress fill she comes back. Inthis scene, Portia shows that her intelligence and good management skills. She devises a plan to save Antonio from the clutches of Shylock. ‘After consulting her cousin Dr. Bellario, she decides to go to Venice, dressed as a lawyer with Nerissa dressed as lawyer's clerk. She entrusts to Lorenzo and Jessica the administration of her mansion. It is her intelligent planning and management of the situation that take the action of the play forward. 3. (@ Portia sends Balthazar to Padua to Dr. Ballario. She chooses him for this errand as Balthazar is her honest and trustworthy servant. (Gi) Balthazar takes with him a letter tobe given to Dr. Bellario of Padua, a lawyer and Portia’s cousin. (Gi) (@) with imagined speed: with maximum speed one is capable of (©) 10:the common ferry! Which trades to Venice: to the public Ferry-boat which plies to and from Venice. (iv) The purpose of sending Balthazar to Portia’s cousin was to hand over to him her letter and then to bring back from him certain letters, notes and robes. Notes prefer to Dr. Bellario's written opinion about the case. Robes refer to the robes of a Doctor of Law for Portia and the dress of a lawyer's clerk, meant for Nerissa. (¥) After Balthazar’s departure, Portia gives Nerissa a hint regarding ‘heir mission saying that she has some urgent work. She also says that they will go to the place where their husbands are. Portia will ‘outline the rest of the plan to Nerissa in the coach which will eazy them to their destined place. 4. () The husbands of Portia and Nerissa would not recognise them when they would see them because they will be dressed like young, men — one a Doctor of Law and the other as his clerk. (ii) After she reaches her destination dressed as a young man, Portia will, ‘wear a dagger by her side. She will speak in the husky voice of a48 ‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK aan youth, passing from boyhood to manhood, She will walk with long manly strides instead of two short and quick steps of ¢ woman, She will ak of brols and fights ikea boastful your man She wi tll fanciful stories, as for instance how many’ great ladies have loved her and died of a broken heat. She says that her mind Is fall of thousands ofschoolboyish pranks and she will uy them al (i) Porta will tl fanciful stories a fr instance how many great ladies have loved her and died ofa broken heart becauue ac didnot love them in return. Then she would saythat she could not help it snd Pretend she is somy fr them and that she wished they didnot die for her sake as it was nother fault, Similarly, she would tel score of other litle inventions and les. She expects men to believe that She has left school more than a year, (6) (0) pny ties eedibe les, lies that are convincing (b) raw tricks: inexperienced tricks of youth (©) bragging Jacks: boastul fellows. (0) Portia tes Nerisa that she will utine her future plan to her inthe coach while traveling to Venice. This scene describes the imaginative Skis of Porta. She plans in detail the plan ef action and decides learly her and Nerissa’s roles in it. The way she plano to speak and walk and tll boastful is larly indicate Portia’ imginatve skills ACT III Scene 5 er ence eel CONTEXT QUESTIONS 41. () Launcelot is in the garden of Portia at Belmont. Launcelot is dliscussing with Jessica the question of her salvation. Fle says that Leah dered Gi Jem Ge be damned, that is there is no vation for her soul bécause children are punished for the sins of their fathers. This is because Christians of those days believed that for the souls of Jows and non-christians, there is no salvation (8) According to Launcelot, Lorenzo is to be blamed for the conversion of Jessica because by converting her, he has added one more member to the community of Christians, who are already many. Besides, it will raise the price of pork as one more pork-eter will be added to the group of pork-eaters. (ii) Jessica's becoming. a Christian will increase the number of pork- eaters and thus, will affect the price of the pork. pe (iv) Confit of religions is highlighted in this scene. Christians of tho days believed that non-Christians and Jews will be damned, since ACT II Scene S a Jessica is the daughter of Shylock, she will be damned. However, Jessica asserts her position referring to St. Paul, who said that the unbelieving wife is sanctified by her husband who is a Christian. (») Earlier, Launcelot had said that Jessica will be damned due to the sins of her father. He justifies this by referring to a passage in the Bible (Exodus 20/5) which says that even children and children’s children will be punished for the sins of their fathers. Jessica hopes to ‘escape damnation through her husband. That is, being converted to Christianity by her husband she will be saved. This has also a reference to Bible where St. Paul says that the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband (1 Corintheans 7:14). 2. (i) Jessica uses these words — ‘Past all expressing’ which mean words are not enough to express her admiration for Portia. Jessica suggests that Bassanio should lead an upright life because he has such a blessing in his wife, Portia, He has the joys of heaven here on earth. If he does not value the joy while on earth, he does not deserve to expect happiness in heaven. (Gi) Immediately after this extract praising Portia, Jessica says that if two gods should enter into a contest and stake two earthly women a5 Prizes in the game, then if Portia were to be one of therm, the other woman would need some addition to her worth so as to make the stake equal. Thus, Jessica states that there is no another woman like Portia in this world. She is peerless. (ii) Lorenzo tells Launcelot that he is trying to show his wisdom by using words at every opportunity. He tells him to try to understand simple man, who speaks plan language. iv) In the context of serving dinner, Launcelot behaves like a refined jester. Lorenzo asks Launcelot to go indoors and tell the servants to {get dinner ready and serve it. Launcelot misunderstands ‘prepare for dinner’ as ‘prepare themselves for dinner’ and says that they are ready and have good appetite. Further he takes ‘prepare dinner’ for ‘get dinner cooked’. Launcelot inverts the words take, meat and bid. He tells Lorenzo that the table shall be ‘served’ meaning ‘laid’ and the meat shall be ‘covered’ meaning ‘served’. He says as for their coming to dinner, it depends on their mood and fancy and he cannot ‘bid’ them to do anything. (v) When Bassanio saw the portrait of Portia, he said that it stands ‘nowhere to Portia’s real self. In this scene, the character of Launcelot changes from that of an ignorant practical joker to that of a more refined jester. He resembles, a court fool here. He theorises on the consequences of Jessica’s turning a Christian. He further reveals his skills in punning words so that even Lorenzo admits that the fool has filed his mind with quite a stock of fine words ready for use.50. ‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ACT IV Scene 1 EY CONTEXT QUESTIONS 1. (@ This scene takes place in a court of justice in Venice. Before this extract, the Duke has described the hard-hearted adversary as an inhuman wretch without pity, totally lacking in mercy. i) The rigorous course referred to in the extract io the demand for the pound of flesh from Antonio's body by Shylock, as the penalty for the forfeiture of the bond. Since Shylock remains cbstinate, Antonio says that no lawful means can save him from his enemy. Gi) @) I shall suffer his cruelty and anger with patience. (©) 11am prepared to face his cruelty and anger with a calm spirit. (iv) The extract shows the Duke's annoyance with Shylock. He tells Shylock that it is everyone's opinion that Shylock intends to keep up the show of severity and hatred until the last stage of the case. Then he wil relent and not only show kindness and pity but will agree to abandon his claim and forego a portion of the original borrowed by Antonio. — () At this juncture, Shylock is defiant and insistent on the penalty for the forfeitare of the bond, ie, a pound of Antony's eth. Antonio on the other hand, is resigned to his fate and is ready to face calmly the consequences of the forfeiture. He believes that no lawful means can save him from Shylock’s sinister intentions. 2. (0) The Duke expects Shylock to mitigate his stand towards forfeiture after considering Antonio's heavy losses that have come so thick and fast. The Duke expects that Shylock will be moved by human tenderness and sympathy. (Gi) ‘A moiety of the principal’ means a part of the principal. The Duke requests to have mercy on Antonio since his iosses have been so heavy and have come so thick and fast upon him lately that they have been enough to ruin a noble merchant. They are enough to draw pity and sympathy for his condition from anyone. (Gi) (@) So accumulated on him, It refers to the many losses that befell fn Antonio so thick and fast. (©) Who have never been taught the feelings of human kindness. ‘The Duke says that Antonio's losses are enough’ to draw pity ‘and sympathy for his condition, from hearts as hard as brass and a8 rough as stones and from uncultured Turks and Tartars, who have never been taught the feelings of human kindness. (Gv) Turks are the people of Turkey and Tartas are the people of Tartary. ACT IV Scene 1 st ‘They were considered uncultured and having no feelings of human kindness. They were considered to be stubbom. The Duke says that ‘even the Turks and Tartars, who have never been schooled in acts of kindness and love, will fel pity and sympathy for Antonio's plight. (¥) Shylock refuses to have mercy on Antonio because his motive was to inflict pain on his enemy, i., Antonio and to take revenge upon him for the insults hurled upon him and his community by Antonio. ‘This shows that Shylock was a strong willed, inflexible man, whose love for his race was so deep that nothing could prevent him from his purpose. 3. (i) Shylock is answering the Duke's suggestion that he expects a gentle ‘answer from him. Shylock says that he will not give an exact reason. [He goes on to state that he has undivided whims like other men. If his house is infested with rats, he may spend ten thousand ducats to have them poisoned. There are people who cannot tolerate the sight of an apen-mouthed roasted pig, sight of a cat or the stream of a bag-pipe. In all these there is no definite reason for hating these things. It is determined by a strong whim or mood, which can overpower any reason, (ii) (@) This means offending others, after being offended. Shylock speaks of people behaving according to their whims. These people stoop low by offending others and expressing their dislike (&) This means a deep-rooted hatred. This refers to Shylock’s deep. and definite dislike and hatred of Antonio. }) Bassanio reacts to what Shylock says by calling him a hard-hearted creature. He further says that his answer is no excuse for his merciless actions. (@v) IeAntonio is shown mercy by the Duke against the wishes of Shylock, it will expose the justice system of the state that allows right and privileges of trade for foreigners. Besides, foreigners will lose their confidence in the just and impartial administration of law in Venice and this will adversely affect its trade and prosperity. (¥) The scene becomes quite tense when Shylock ignores all the attempts to persuade him to give up his bond. He does not relent even when Bassanio offers him ten times the amount for which Antonio is in default. The scene attains the highest tension when Shylock becomes ready with a knife and weighing scale to cut a pound of Antonio's flesh. [At the end, Shylock loses his case, when Portia reminds him that he is entitled to take a pound of Antonio's flesh but without shedding a single drop of blood, which was impossible condition for Shylock to fulfill : 4. (i) Justbefore the given extract an argument takes place between Bassanio and Shylock. Bassanio asks Shylock whether a man is obliged toACT IV Scene 1 53 52 THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK seek the death of everything he dislikes. In reply, Shylock wants to know when a man hates a thing intensely, why should he not kill it willingly. Bassanio further argues that a first offence does not arouse so fierce a hatred. Shylock argues again with another question. He asks Bassanio whether he would give a serpent a second chance to sting him. (i) Inthe extract Antonio tells Bassanio that it is useless to plead with the Jew to show mercy. He tells him if he is hoping to soften his heart, hhe might as well stand on the sea-shore and ask the tide not to rise so high as usual. Secondly, he may as well ask the wolf why he has ‘made the mother sheep to mourn for the lamb he has devoured. (Gi) (a) It means reduce its mutual height, meaning to ask the ocean tides not to rise, () It means to sway their high top. It refers to the swaying of the high tops of the pine trees on the mountains. (Gv) Shylock does not give a definite reason for his hatred for Antonio. He goes on to state that he has individual whims like other men. He says thal these people have no well-grounded reason to offer as to why they dislike various objects, like a gaping pig, a harmless domestic cat and a bagpipe. Shylock says that he bears just such a deep-rooted hatred and a definite dislike for Antonio. (¥) Shylock firmly refuses to accept any amount of money and insists that he will only have his bond because the pound of flesh which he is demanding from Antonio has been bought by him at a high price and no legal authority in Venice can deny him his right. He finally loses the bond and gets nothing, neither Antonio's pound of flesh nor the money offered by Bassanio. Instead he has to give up his property, his daughter and his religion 5. () In the first line of the extract ‘They’ refers to the slaves of the Chaistians. The beds of thes slaves are referred here. According to Shylock, the slaves are treated as asses, dogs and mules and used in mean servile tasks, (Gi) This means to give the slaves rich food to eat. This refers to Shylock’s complaint that Christians don’t provide their slaves the rich food they themselves take and treat them as they please since they are their property. (Gi) Shylock says that the pound of flesh which he claims from Antonio hhas been bought by him at a high price. As per the bond agreement, at the forfeiture, Shylock is entitled to only a pound of Antonio's flesh. He will lose his three thousand ducats he had given. (iv) Shylock thinks that since the pound of flesh has been bought by hhim at a high price, itis his and therefore, insists on having it. He demands justice from the Duke as per the bond agreement. The given extract proves that Shylock is good at giving relevant arguments to prove his case. He gives replies word by word to the {questions put forward by his enemies. When asked to give a noble Fesponse on having mercy on Antonio, Shylock says that Christians are no better. They treat their slaves as they treat their asses, dogs and mules. He questions if Christians would allow their slaves 0 intermarry in their families and allow them to have comfortable beds and tasty food like them. He further argues that just as people have zo good reason whey cannot put up with a gaping pig, a harmless domestic eat or a bagpipe, he has no reason to give for taking & pound of Antonio's flesh. (©) Decreesof Venice guarantee equal rights and privileges to the citizens and foreigners. I Shylock were rehised justice, the justice system of Venice would be exposed to disrepute and will adversely affect the trade and prosperity of Venice. 6. (@ Bassanio tells Antonio not to lose hope and have courage. He is ready to give his own flesh to greedy Shylock and his whole body to0, before he will allow him to lose one drop of Antonio's blood ‘on his behalf (i) Antonio says that he is like a sick sheep in the herd only fit to bbe taken out from the herd for slaughter. He says that he is the ‘most ft or suitable person to die. (Gi) Epitaphis an inscription written on the tomb of a dead man. Antonio > fake about the eplaph now since he fs sure that he has to die a3 the Jew was determined to have his bond. (iv) To save Antonio, Bassanio offers to pay Shylock six thousand duca's, double she amount of money borrowed from Shylock. (©) Nerissa, dressed as a lawyers’ clerk came to the scene immediately after Antonio's speech. She came to deliver a letter to the Duke from Dr. Bellario of Padua. 7. @ When Shylock insists that he wants only his bond and is sharpening his knife to cut the flesh from the man, who has failed to pay the debt, Gratiano reacts violently to his remarks. He says that Shylock is not sharpening his knife on the sole of his shoe, but on his soul ‘and no metal, not even the axe of a hangman can have half the sharpness of his envy. ii) Pythagoras was a Greek philosopher and mathematician (BC540-510). oe atght the doctrine ofthe tanomigation of tou, According this theory, the souls of some human beings pass, after death, into animals and those of animals into some men. (Gi) (@) waver in my faith: We means to lose faith in my own religion (Chuistianity). Tt means that he tends to believe Pythagoras’ ‘Theory of Transmigration.54 ‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ACT IV Scene 1 55 (b) the gallows did his fll sou! flet: It means that when he was hanged for man-laughter the soul of a wolf entered his body at birth. (iv) The spirit of the wicked wolf entered into Shylock’s body when he was in his mother’s womb. The wolf was killed for man’s slaughter. (v) It can be concluded that Shylock has the spirit of the wolf because all his inclinations are wolf-like — he is greedy, bloodthirsty and rapadous. Certainly the spirit dwelling in his breast must have formerly been that of a wolf when its former body was slain, it took up its abode in Shylock’s body. * Shyleck laughs at Gratiano’s outburst. He says that he is injuring his lungs. He says it is a mere waste of breath unless, curses can make his bond illegal. He sarcastically tells Gratiano to try to get more wisdom or his understanding will soon be beyond the hope of any improvement. 8. (@) Theword ‘strained!’ means forced. Portia tells that the very characteristic of mercy is that there can be no compulsion in its exercise. It drops as freely as the gentle rain from heaven on the earth below. It is beyond the power of man and the law to compel a man to be merciful. Mercy is a free voluntary action. (i) Portia says that mercy carries with ita two-fold power and a double blessing, It benefits both the giver and the receiver. It is not an attribute of weakness, She says its effect is the greatest and noblest when exercised by the great and the powerful, though the law gives them absolute power to enforce justice. (iil) Sceptre is a rod which a king holds in his hand, symbolising his royal power. The king's sceptre is the outward symbol of his earthly over. It gives him awful majesty and fills his subjects with dread and fear of him, (iv) (@) Portia says that mercy sheds upon a royal king a brighter lusture than the crown he wears. nar (b) Portia says that mercy is far above the earthly power of a kin, symbolised by his sceptre. * * (v) Portia says that if strict justice were to be meted out to all, no one could enter heaven. We all pray to God for mercy. We pray to God to forgive us our trespasses that we may forgive those who trespass against us. Hence Portia requests Shylock not to press for bare justice in the case but to forego his legal rights and to reason justice with mercy. 9. (i) “This bond is forfeit” means that the agreement has been broken and the penalty must be paid. Now the bond is forfeit since Antonio has. failed to payback he thee thousand duets he had borrowed from lock. (ji) Tt means when it is paid according to the terms of the bond. It refers to Portia’s suggestion to accept three times the money and tear the agreement. Shylock says that the bond can be tom only when its terms are carried out. (iii) Shylock flatters Portia by calling her a worthy judge. He says that her earned explanation and just decision shows that her knowledge of law is very sound. Earlier, Shylock compared her to Daniel, a wise Jewish prophet, He was a wise judge like Solomon. Daniel saved a beautiful woman Susannah from wicked elders by cross-examining them separately. In this way, he made justice to triumph and saved Susannah. So, Shylock is comparing Portia for her wisdom, with Daniel the prophet, for she refuses to break the law on the ground that bad precedents will be created in future. (iv) When Portia offered him thrice the due amount for the fist time, Shylock told her that he has sworn an oath before God to have nothing but the bond. He cannot commit a sin of breaking an oath and not even for the whole wealth of Venice will he break his oath. (w) Shylock was confident that no one could take away his right to forfeiture since the strict exposition of the law of Venice permits it. Portia, the lawyer has already stated that the law cannot be altered to save Antonio as it would set forth bad precedents in the administration of justice. Shylock’s deep-rooted hatred for Antonio and his determination to have his bond as per the agreement are shown in this extract. This is because he declares “There is no power in the tongue of man to alter me: I stay here on my bond.” 10. (i) Antonio is speaking these words to Bassanio. ‘Grieve not that I am fallen to this for you’ — in these words, Antonio asks Bassanio not to worry that this fate has befallen on him for Bassanio’s sake. (Gi) The normal custom of the Fortune is to allow a man in misfortune to live to see with his hollow eyes and wrinkled face, the ruin ‘which has come upon him and to endure an old age of hardships and sufferings. ‘Lingering penance’ refers to prolonged suffering.of witnessing one’s own ruin and experiencing misery. (ii) Antonio thinks that ‘Fortune’ is kind to him by mercifully letting him ‘escape a prolonged suffering of his misfortune by an early death.» (Gv) Antonio requests Bassénio to convey his greetings to his nibble and to tell her the manner of Antonio's death. He also! to tell her of his true and faithful friendship for him arid to) well of him after his death. aga56 THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK (¥) Bassaniomust not regret that Antonio has to face misfortune because of him. Antonio will not regret that he is making the sacrifice for Bassanio's sake. He is willing to pay the penalty freely and with all his heart. Bassaniois ready to sacrifice everything he has to save Antonio from the evil designs of Shylock. This offer reflects Bassanio’s deep love and friendship for Antonio. 11. () Just before the given extract, Portia interprets the law to Shylock. She tells him that in the bond there is no mention of even the smallest drop of blood. The words clearly say ‘a pound of flesh’. She tells Shylock to take the forfeit in this agreement which is just a pound of flesh. However, in the process of cutting if he sheds a drop of blood of a citizen, all his wealth and possessions will be forfeited to the government, according to the law. (Gi) Portia tells Shylock that he wll getjustice ashe pleads so insistently for it, But it may be that the justice will be stricter than he will wish for. (Gil) Gratiano is happy as the tide has changed. He is taunting Shylock and throws back at Shylock his words in praise of Portia’s wisdom. He calls Portia a most honourable judge. Gratiano tells Shylock to notice that Portia is the most wise judge. Gv) Portia stops Bassanio from giving the money to Shylock. She states that Shylock shall have the justice he has asked for to the fullest extent, She asks Bassanio not to be in such a hurry. Shylock can have notking now, but the bond. (¥) The loophole in the bond highlighted by Portia is that the bond allows Shylock only the right to cut a pound of Antonio's flesh. It does not permit him to shed any blood while cutting off the flesh. At the end of the scene, Shylock’s emotions changed from that of a self-confident and rigid man to a shattered man, who is forced to «give up his property and renounce his religion. 12. (@) ‘Pardon’ referred to here is the Duke's granting Shylock his life, The pardon is granted under the condition that half of his riches will now belong to Antonio, the merchant he plotted against. The other half would go to the state, but if he repents and humbly begs for mercy, the state may just impose a fine instead of taking the full amount. The Duke decrees that Shylock must abide by the conditions put forward by Antonio; otherwise he will withdraw the forgiveness he has extended to him, ACT IV Scene 1 sv (Gi) The two conditions Antonio imposed on Shylock are: first, he draws ‘up a will leaving half of his wealth, to Lorenzo and Jessica after his death. Second, that he becomes a Christian, (Gi) The Duke appears in this scene as a just and kind administrator of justice. Initially, he persuades Shylock to have pity on Antonio for his heavy business losses. When Shylock insists on the penalty for the forfeiture of the bond, the Duke follows the course of justice. ‘When Portia points out the penalty for conspiring against a citizen of Venice, he pardons Shylock and grants him his life. (Gv) IfGratiano were the judge, he would have constituted ajury of twelve ‘people, who would sentence Shylock to death and willhavehim hanged ‘on the gallows. Gratiano here creates some comic effects with his sharp-witted statements. He says that when Shylock is baptised, hhe will have two godfathers. Further, he says that instead of the baptismal font, he would have reached him to the gallows. (¥) Shylock is a frustrated man at this stage. All his hopes of taking revenge on Antonio have failed. He begs to be allowed to go home since he is not well. We feel pity for Shylock as he makes a sad exit with the crowd ridiculing him at the door of the court. At the same time, we feel happy that his evil designs did not succeed, 13. (i) Portia says that one who is well pleased with one’s work is sufficiently rewarded. She is well-pleased that she has saved them from the clutches of Shylock and considers this as a sufficient reward. Bassanio insists that Portia should take something as a gift or a token oftheir gratitude. He tells her to grant him two favours, fist not to refuse his request and second to forgive his persistence. (ii) Portia asks Bassanio the ring he is wearing as a token of gratitude, (Gi) Bassanio is unwilling to part with the ring. He says that it is a shame to give the ring as it is far from being valuable. He cannot really think of allowing her to accept such a paltry gilt. (iv) Bassanio was hesitant to comply to Portia’s request of giving her the ring he was wearing because it was a prsent from his wife. Further, his wife had made him swear never to part with the ring. He offers to give Portia the most valuable ring available in Venice. (W) Portia remarks that many men who do not wish to give a present, give such a reason. She adds that if his wife is a sensible person ind understands what Portia has done to eam the ring, she will soon relent and will not be angry for long with him. Antonio tells Bassanio that he should let Portia have the hhim that the promise he-made to his wife should be out this occasion by Porta’s merits and the love he bears ie Hence, Basanio changes his mind and parts with the Ang.58 ‘THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK | ACT IV Scene 2 oa ACT IV Scene 2 2 (i) By saying ‘That cannot be’, Portia is referring to Bassanio’s request CONTEXT QUESTIONS 1. () The deed referred to in the extract is the legal document prepared by Portia, The contents of the deed are that Shylock’s property will g0 to Lorenzo and Jessica after Shylock’s death. Lorenzo will be happy with this deed as itis beneficial to him and Jessica (di) (@) Find out the house of Shylock. Portia asks Nerissa to ask someone to direct her to Shylock’s house. (&) Lam glad to have overtaken you. (Gi) Portia is going to Belmont that night. She should reach home before her husband so that he may not doubt her absence from Belmont. ‘She was away from home under the pretext of going to a convent to do religious exercises and holy meditation till the arrival of their husbands. (iv) In Act V Scene 1, the comedy occurs due to Bassanio having given the ring to the lawyer. Portia accuses Bassanio for this saying if he knew the special qualities of the ring, the virtue of the one who gave the ring and his honour in keeping vows, he should not have parted with it. He defends himself saying that he parted with it reluctantly and gave it to the lawyer, who saved Antonio's life. (¥) Portia and Nerissa, after their wedding, give rings to their husbands, Bassanio and Gratiano respectively, as a token of their love and take a promise from them to never part with it. However, after the ‘rial scene, Portia and Nerissa trick their husbands into giving them the rings. They pretend to be offended and blame their husbands for faithlessness. It is only when Portia reveals her and Nerissa’s identity and shows the rings, the lovers are united again and there is merriment and joy. Thus, the ring episode becomes a part of the love episode. ‘The ring episode adds humour in the play in the manner in which Portia and Nerissa disguised asalawyer and her assistant, respectively, ‘manage to trick their husbands into giving them their rings. Portia's indulgence in playful jesting over the ring provides comic relief and adds humour in the play. to her to have dinner with him. Portia tells Gratiano that itis not possible for her to accept Bassanio’s request to come for dinner. She says so because she is in the disguise of a lawyer and did not want Bassanio to know her identity at this stage. Secondly, she wants to return to Belmont before the arrival of her husband. (ii) The ‘youth’ referred to here is Nerissa. The youth should be shown Shylock’s house so that she could give the draft deed to Shylock for his signature. (ii) Nerissa is planning to get the ring from Gratiano. Portia says that their husbands will keep swearing that they have given the rings to men as a gift but Portia and Nerissa will contradict them and swear just as vehemently that they are deceiving them. This incident provides a comic effect in the play in Act V Scene 1. Both Nerissa and Portia accuse their husbands for parting with their rings. But Bassanio and Gratiano swear that they have given the rings to boys and that too to express their gratitude to them for their services in saving Antonio from Shylock. They swear never to part with the rings again. The ring-episode provides comic relief after the serious trial scene. ‘Act IV ofthe play ends with Nerissa and Gratiano going in search of Shylock’s house to get the deed signed from him and with Nevisa’s plans to get the ring from Gratiano, Portia’sleadership quality comes forththe best in ActV.She disguises herself as a lawyer and pleads for Antonio in the court, to save him from the clutches of Shylock. At first, she appeals to Shylock for mercy. But when Shylock remains unmoved, she appeals to his greed. When this also does not work, she asks Shylock to go ahead with the bond and cut Antonio's pound of flesh. But she finally” changes the direction of the case by stating that the bond dogs not. allow Shylock to shed a single drop of blood in the process oft the flesh. Portia by her superb leadership quality, saves from Shylock’s bond, ensures the happiness of Bassanio and, ‘and secures the future of Lorenzo and Jessica by property for Jessica. Finally, she manages to get a gratitude for saving Antonio. Portia’s act of getting Bassanio's ring prepare ring episode and the final resolution of the play’