Merchant Of Venice

Act II, Scene 2

o Lancelot plays a prank on his father as he is blind and teases him as well.
This adds comedic effect in the scene.
o Lancelot is also thinking about leaving his master Shylock, as he is a
faithless jew and if he stays with him any longer, then he too will become
a jew. This shows the inner conflict between his conscience and fiend.
o He implies that his master is unkind and selfish and exaggerates a lot for
comedic effect.
o Lancelot is also a quick-witted and clever person who uses metaphors to
express his inner conflict.
o Lancelot then tells Bassanio that he would be glad to serve him and is
willing to run as far as the Earth stretches in order to serve him.
o He also uses Malapropism which is the play of words which adds
amusing effect.
o An example of this was when he used the word frutify instead of the word
fructify.
o Bassanio then tells Gratiano that he is too wild and unknown people
might view his as disrespectful and hence, tells him to be on his best
behavior when he goes in front of Portia.
Act II, Scene 3
o "Our house is hell," is a metaphor used by Jessica to describe the
unpleasant environment in their house.
o The starting dialogue reflects tension in ger relationship with her father
who disapproves with her interactions with Christians.
o The word "Most beautiful pagan" has been used as it is non-Christians
are often called Pagans.
o Lancelot's lines highlight his playful nature and reveals the complexity of
their situation.
o Jessica expresses her affection and appreciation for him and says that she
is ashamed to be her father's daughter due to his ill manners and Jewish
heritage.
o She says that she hopes to become a Christian and marry Lorenzo.
Act II, Scene 4
o At the start, they are nervous and not sure if their plan will word as
torchbearers will be there in the streets.
o Lorenzo's friends tease him about the letter that he has received.
o There is great secrecy about Jessica escaping from her house tonight.
o Jessica will be dressed as a male servant and will escape, taking some of
her fathers jewels and riches with her.