Marchant de venise Act 1
When Salerio first tries to guess why Antonio feels sad, what does his suggestion indicate about the rest
of the play?
That the rest of the play will investigate the nature of profit and greed
What is Bassanio's relation to Antonio?
He is Antonio's friend
What do Gratiano's remarks about Antonio's sadness suggest about his character?
His lack of sensitivity
Why can't Bassanio ask for Portia's hand in marriage?
Because he has outstanding debts
How does Antonio offer to help Bassanio?
He offers to help Bassanio secure a loan
When Portia expresses her discontent to Nerissa, how does Nerissa's response resemble what Salerio
said to Antonio in Act 1, Scene 1?
Both responses are about money and financial security
Why is Portia frustrated with her romantic situation?
Her father's will prevents her from choosing her own husband
What does Portia's dismissal of her suitors reveal about her character?
That she is witty but highly selective
What does Portia's remark about the Prince of Morocco reveal about her character?
That she is open-minded about different cultures
What does Bassanio ask Shylock to do?
Lend him money
Why does Shylock decline Bassanio's invitation to dine with him and Antonio?
It would go against his principles to dine with Christians
Shylock previously referred to Antonio as a "good man," but he later reveals that he has a grudge
against him—what explains this discrepancy?
Shylock originally meant that Antonio is financially reliable
What does Antonio agree to do for Bassanio despite his personal principles?
Take part in a transaction involving interest
What point does Shylock make by referring to Jacob's breeding of sheep in the Bible?
That it is morally acceptable to charge interest
What is Shylock's response when Antonio insults him for citing the Bible to defend usury?
Shylock insists that he is not Antonio's real enemy
What unusual condition does Shylock propose for the loan he will give to Antonio?
Shylock will take a pound of Antonio's flesh if he doesn't repay the loan
How does Bassanio feel about the deal Shylock makes with Antonio?
He is nervous and worried for Antonio