Merchant of Venice: Act 1

What is Antonio's emotional state?

• Melancholy (sad), but he claims he doesn't know why

• "In sooth, I know not why I am so sad."

What do Solanio and Salerio think is the reason Antonio is sad?

1. Worry over his merchant ships (merchandise)

2. He is in love. (Antonio denies both).

What opinion does Bassanio give of Grantiano?

He says that he talks too much

Why does Bassanio need a loan for Belmont?

To "hold a rival place" (look as wealthy as other suitors) to woo the heiress Portia in Belmont

Why would Portia be a good match?

• She is rich and Bassanio swears they have a connection

• Portia's "fairer than the world" - beautiful

What relationship exists between Bassanio and Antonio?

They are Kinsmen - really good friends like brothers

What help does Antonio offer?

Antonio offers Bassanio credit

What is Nerissa's feeling about moderation?

It's important to live in moderation but it is hard to do

What does Portia say about preaching and practice?

She says that it's easier to preach then to practice

Portia’s Four Qualities:

• Witty (suitor insults)

• Obdeient (follows will)

• Perceptive (sees through people)

• Melancholy (tired of world)

Did Shylock accept the invitation to dinner?

He doesn't eat with them because of his Jewish beliefs and they are planning on eating pork

What biblical study does Shylock use to discuss charging interest? What is his motive?

He uses Jacob and he tells the story to compare his interest to breeding & represent “thrift,” not theft

How does Bassanio describe his financial situation?

• He’s “disabled” & in debt due to his “swelling port” (lavish lifestyle)

• Honorable too as he wants to pay off his debts

Why can’t Portia choose her husband?

Her deceased father's will requires suitors to pass a "lottery" involving three caskets (gold, silver, lead).

What does Shylock mean by calling Antonio a "good man"?

He is "sufficient" (creditworthy/financially able to pay the debt).

Why does Shylock hate Antonio?

1. He is a Christian

2. He lends money w/o interest, lowering profit margins in Venice

3. Antonio hates Jew & him

What are the terms of the loan?

Intrest-free 3,000 ducats for 3 months. Penalty for default: one pound of Antonio's flesh.

How does Portia feel about her suitors?

• Critical and mocking

• She finds a specific flaw in each except Bassanio (e.g., the German's drinking, the Neapolitan's obsession with horses).

How does Antonio treat Shylock?

He spits on him, calls him a "dog," and insults him ("spurn").

Why is Antonio confident in signing the bond?

He expects his ships to return with three times the bond’s value a month before it is due.

How does the Portia/Nerissa relationship parallel Antonio/Bassanio?

• Both represent deep loyalty and friendship

• The "confidant" (Nerissa/Antonio) supports the "lead" (Portia/Bassanio) in their quest for love/happiness

Gratiano & Lorenzo

• Bassanio & Antonio’s (Lorenzo only) friends

• Gratiano has an improper sense of humor & clownish demeanor

Solarino & Solanio

Antonio & Bassanio’s friend who provide exposition and info like narrators