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Textbook Class 9 2020 : English Paper 2 (English Literature)

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Mrinal Paul
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ACT I Scene 1 (iv) ACT I Scene 1 5 Act I Scene 2 13 Scene 3 20 26 Act II CONTEXT QUESTIONS Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: 1. (i) Where are Antonio and his friends? What does Antonio say about' his - sadness? 59 26 ~ ! 29 Scene 2 Scene 3 25 5 Scene 1 Scene 1 - 36 Antonio and his friends are in a street in Venice. Antonio. says that his sadness makes him depressed and dull. He further says thatthJ is yet to learn about the, origin and nature of his sadness. ,pi) Give the meaning of: f - ~. t Scene 4 38" Scene 5 40 (b) a want-wit Scene 6 44 (c) That I have much ado to know myself: That I have much difficulty in recognising myselt. Scene 7 47 Scene 8 51 Scene 9 54 Act'III 60 Scene 1 60 Scene 2 65 Scene 3 77 Scene 4 79 Scene 5 83 Act IV 86 Scene 1 86 Scene 2 100 Act V Scene 1 (a) 103 103 (iii) - 85 whereof it is born " n,\.)Vv it originated. sadness: a dull sadness. reason does Salarino give as the probable cause of Antonio's melancholy? Whal Salarino tells Antonio llidl he is sad because his mind is preoccupied with his ships filled with cargo, which are 'out at' sea. (iv) State in your own words the scene on the ocean as described by'.salar~nd( when Antonio's ships were sailing. - 102 Salarino compares Antonio's ships sailing on the waves with the 'great lords and wealthy citizens, who lookdo~n 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 look like, grand: spectacles or pageants of the sea. .' (v) The play begins in an atmosphere of melancholy. Why do you think that Antonio is presented as a melancholic and passive character? - 110 Antonio is presented as a melancholic andpassive character mainly for three reasons. Firstly, by portraying Antonio as a whimsical person, - ---------- - --- ------ __ ---------- ----------- ----- ------------------------ I ) Downloaded by ICSE hub THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK 6 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 forthe play. Thirdly, Antonio's melancholy creates a sense of mystery for the audience. 2. (i) Where would Salanio's attention be if he had business ventures abroad? Why would he be 'Plucking the grass'? What else would he be doing in that context? If Salanio had bu_sinessventures abroad, his thoughts would be fixed on the dangers to his ventures and methods of securing them. He would be plucking th :blades of grass and casting t~ep1.in the air to see which way the wirid 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. (ii) What would make Salanio fear some danger to his ventures? Give two examples from the- opening scene to show how some objects remind Salarino of the danger to the ships. Every thought of Salanio would make him fearful of danger to his business ventures. Two examples which reminded Salarino of the 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. (b) The sandy hour-glass reminded him of the richly laden vessels wrecked on the sandy shore. (iii) Give the meaning of: (a) Plucking the grass to know where sits the wind. Plucking of grass and casting them in the air to see which way the wind blew. (b) Peering in maps for ports, and piers, and roads. Looking into maps for harbours, channels and even open road -steads near the shore. (iv) In spite of the danger to his ships, why is Antonio not worried about his financial security? Despite danger to his ships, Antonio is not worried about his financial security because his business is neither dependent on anyone ship nor on any single location or commercial transactions of the current year. ACT I Scene 1 7 (v) What light does the opening scene throw on the danger that the sea could pose to ships? 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. 3. (i) Where does this scene take place? Name the people who are present there. In what mood is Salarino in this scene? This scene takes place in a street of Venice.Antonio, Salarino and Salarrio are present in the s~ep:e.Salarino is in a talkative .rreood and wants to know the reason fot Antonio's melancholy. He sa~s that he too would be feeling melancholic if his ships were sailing on the sea. (ii) What would the wWd cooling the broth remind Sal~rino of? It would remind Salarino of the stormy winds at sea and of the terrible damages they might cause to the ships. (iii) Give the meaning of: And see my wealthy Andrew dock'd in sand, Vailing her high-top lower than her ribs Ta kiss her burial. 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. (iv) What is the 'sandy hour-glass'? What would it remind Salarino of? Sandy hour-glass is an apparatus used to indicate time. It would remind Salarino of the dangers from hidden banks of sand at sea, on wihch a ship may run aground. (v) What is referred to as 'wealthy Andrew'? Why is it so referred? Salarino refers to his richly laden ship as wealthy Andrew. It is so referred because Salarino feels that like the Spanish ship Andrea captured by the British in 1596, his ship too is majestic and rich with cargo. THE MERCHANT 8 OF VENICE - HANDBOOK (vi) When Salarino would go to church what would he see? What would Downloaded by ICSE hub ACT I Scene 9 (v) Who is Nestor? Why is he referred to in the extract? the scene make him imagine? 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 on the sea all 1 Nestor was the King of Pylas. 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. (vi) Give the meaning of: her spices and silks. (a) And other of such vinegar aspect 4. The second type of people who are grav~ and serious .. (i} . Who has just said that Antonio was in love? What was the reaction of (b) Though Nestor swear the jest be laughable. Antonio to that remark? Salarino has just sajd\that Antonio was in love. Antonio calls the remark as nonsense and completely denies that he is in love. . Even if the wise and,.g1ave Nestor certify the joke as funny. (vii) Why are a class of people compared to parrots? A class of. people are compared to parrots because they laugh even at a bag-piper as foolishly as 'a parrot laughs at anything.. < (ii) Antonio says that he-is not sad because of love. What explanation does Salarino give in the extra ct for Antonio's sadness? Salarino concludes that Antonio is sad because he is not happy. He remarks that there are some curious creatures in the world. He swears by Iunus, the two-headed Roman God that some people have merry natures and are continuously laughing whether the things they see are subject for mirth Of not. Again there are others with the sorrre-xt. countenance who will not laugh at any thing though the gravest old warrior Nestor himself confirms the joke as most amusing. (iii) What is meant by the 'two-headed Janus'? Why is he referred to in the extract? 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. (iv) Describe in your own words the two types of strange fellows who .have been framed by nature. Nature has two types of people. The first type of people have happy natures and of-tenlaugh 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. (viii)Who comes at the end of Salarino's speech? Why does Salarino leave then? At the end ot Salarinos 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. (i) Why is a young man compared to 'his grandsire cut in alabaster'? Under what condition is he likely to be infected with jaundice? Gratiano gives the example of a warm-blooded young man who represses 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. (ii) Give the meaning of: (a) Do cream and mantle like a standing pond: 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) doa wilful stillness entertain: maintain an obstinate silence not to disturb the solemnity of their faces. Downloaded by ICSE hub THE 10 (iii) MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK What is said in the extract about the people who try to earn a reputation for wisdom? 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, other should keep quiet. (iv) What is meant by 'I am Sir Oracle' and 'let no dog bark'? (iii) What confession has Bassanio made to Antonio earlier about his financial position? How can you conclude that Bassanio is a spendthrift? 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 spendthrift. "~ (iv) \tVhatexperience of his school days does Bassanio relate to justify his plan for repaying the loan? 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, k:>i risking the second, he often regained both the arrows. 'I am Sir Oracle' means 'I speak with the,authority of the 'Greek Oracle'. The Gre~k fOracles made known the w ill of Gods and were received by all withJui:' questions. '<'Let no dog bark' means 'let no one spea!<'.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. (v) What advice does Gratiano give to Antonio at the end of his speech? 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. 6. (i) VVhereare Bassanio and Antonio? What has Antonio said earlier in reply to which Bassanio spea ks these words? Bassanio an.dAntonio are in a street in Venice.Prior to this extract, Antonio asks Bassanio. to tell him about his plans. He adds, that if Bassanio's plan is, as honourable as he is, he then promises him everything that he has-- money, influence, personal help and utmost resources. (ii) Explain the following: Or bring your latter hazard back again, And thankfully rest debtor for the first. The' above 'lines'-mean that at any rate Bassanio could pay the second loan and remain his grateful debtor for the first. 11 ACT I Scene 1 (v) How does Bassanio propose to pay back his previous loan as well as the present loan? ! Bassanio proposes to pay back his previous loan as well as the present loan by carefully managing the expenditure of his second loan amount, 7. (i) What is meant by, 'fair speechless messages' and 'nothing undervalued'? 'Fair speechless messages' mean glances which are silent messages of love.. Bassaniowants to say that sometimes he received from Portia'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. (ii) Who are Cato and Brutus? Why are they referred to here? Cato, the father of Brutus' wife Portia, was the great-grandson of the famous Cato, the Censor. In the Civil War between Pompey and Caesar he supported Pompey and was defeated by Caesar. Brutus, husband of Portia, was the chief of the conspirators against Caesar and caused his assassination; They are referred to show that Portia of Belmont is as precious and great as Cato's daughter, Portia. (iii) What evidence is there in the passage to show that Portia's fame had spread throughout the world? 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. . _ --tvzm Downloaded by ICSE hub r THE 12 MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK (iv) E~plain in your own words the meaning and significance of the 'golden fleece' whichJason sought in Colchos. 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 to 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. Herefers to other suitors as Jasons. (b) To have it of my trust or for my sake. Either on the security of my name or from feelings of personal friendship. (v) In the opening scene, the theme of romance and love is introduced. How is this scene linked to the Bond story? In the opening scene, Bassanio comes to Antonio to borrow money so that he can go to Belmont to win his lady love. But Antonio confesses that he has no ready cash and instructs Bassanio to borrow money from a merchant dgainsl his security or name. Thus, Shakespeare links the first scene t~ the Bond story which involves the loan from Shylock. (v) Describe briefly the first impression the audience have of Portia in the opening scene. "" . Bassanio's descripti~n of Portia in the opening sce~e reveals that she is a paragon among women She is rich and beautiful, with golden hair. She has wonderfultmental qualities and is virtuous as well. Her fame has attracted suitors from all over the world. She is in no way inferior to her namesake, Catos daughter and Brutus' wife. (vi) Compare briefly the character of Antonio with that of Bass~nio in the opening scene. Antonio is introduced in rth~ scene as' a rich merchant rr.r~ing 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 luxury beyond his means. He seems to LiJke undue advantage of Antonio's generosity. Unlike Antonio, he is a romantic mall, whu warus Lu J.uCtfl'y Portla, a rich and beautitul heiress 8. (i) Why is Antonio unable to help Bassanio at once? Antonio. is unable t(~help I3assanio at once since he has no money in hand as all his business vent u res are at sea. (ii) 'To raise a present required urgently? 13 ACT I Scene 2 Iroru Belmont. sum'. How much was this sum? Why was it ACT I Scene 2 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. (iii) What does Antonio instruct Bassanio to do in this regard? Antonio instructs Bassanio to find out.a merchant who is ready to give him money' against his name. CONTEXT QUESTIONS Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: 1. (iv) Give the meaning of: (a) That shall be rack'd, even to the uttermost. The credit shall be stretched to the utrnost limit. Antonio says that he is ready to stretch the credit as far as to equip' Bassanio to go to Belmont to woo Portia. (i) What has Portia just said in response to which Nerissa speaks these words? Portia has just said that she can neither choose the one she likes nor 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. - - -._ r .. - ... ---------~ ~ ~ ~ - .~- .... ---,_ ----- Downloaded by ICSE hub -_.. - 14 THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK (ii) Describe the .lottery referred to in the extract. The lottery refers to the choice of the right casket containing Portia's portrait from among the. three caskets of gold, silver and Iead: The suitor who w'ill make the right choice as per the will of Portia's father. will win her in marriage. (iii) Givethe reactions of Portia as well as of Nerissa to the lottery. .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 onshe accepts her father's will. She says that she.would remain a virgin }fkeDiana unless 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. (iv) Give the meaning of "never be chosen by any rightly, but one who you shall rightly love." These lines mean that Portia will be chosen correctly by a person whom she truly loves. (v) Portia is melancholic iri .the beginning of the scene as it was the case with Antonio in the previous scene. What is the difference between Antonio's melancholy and that of Portia? Portia's melancholy is the result of her anxiety over the prospect of her futu re husband while the cause of Antonio's melancholy "isunknown. (vi) How does this scene show a mood of melancholy, anxiety and suspense? The scene shows a mood of melancholy, anxiety and suspense. The mood of melancholy and anxiety is due to the prospect of Por+ias future husband to be decided by the lottery designed according to her deceased father's will. This also creates an atmosphere of suspense. TIle conversation between Nerissa and Portia, Portia' s cornmerits on the suitors and Nerissa's reference to Bassanio as 'the best deserving-a fair lady' increase the elements of anxiety and suspense in the scene. 2. (i) Where are Portia and Nerissa? What are they generally discussing about? In what mood is Portia in the scene? 15 ACT I Scene 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) Who is the County Palatine? Why has he come to Belmont? County Palatine was the Count from Palatinate, the region on the west bank of the Rhine in Germany. He was a powerful lord who came to Belmont to win Portia's hand. (iii) Who is the first prince described by Portia? What does she say about him? The first prince tJ.e:scribed by Portia is the Neapolitan prince from Naples, Italy. 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 al great accorrrplishment. (iv) Who is the weeping philosopher? In which context is he referred to in the extract? The weeping philosopher refers to Heraclitus of Esphesus. 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. She feels that since County Palatine is unusually gloomy in his young age, he will become a sad philosopher like Heraclitus when he grows old. (v) Give the meaning of: (a) An you. will not have me, choose If you do not want me, choose anyone you wish (b) a death's-head with a bone in his mouth 'a skull with a bone in its mouth'. The emblem of a skull with two bones crossed underneath was usually known as "death's head". (vi) Give a character-sketch of the County Palatine. 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 stories don't make him laugh. He has an abrupt manner of speech and may become a sad philosopher like Heraclitus when he grows old. z Downloaded by ICSE hub THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK 4. 3. (i) 17 ACT I Scene 2 What has Portia said earlier about Neapolitan prince and his horse? Which characteristic is common between Monsieur Le Bon and the Count Palatine? (i) How is the young baron's external appearance described in the passage? What light does it throw on the national pattern of clothes of Englishmen? 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 Fr~nch 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. 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. (ii) Give the meaning of: (i i) (a) he is every ma1~ in no man: He has every man's characteristics but no personality bf' his own. : (b) he falls straight a-capering: He starts to jump about. Monsieur Le Bon is so fickle-rnVuled that if hears a thrush sing, he starts to jump about. (iii) How does the French lord react to the singing uf a tluush? When he hears the singing of a thrush, the French Lord starts jumping immediatel y. (iv) What would happen: (a) if Portia be as if she were married to twenty husbands never one man but twenty men by turns. (b) (iii) Give the meaning of: (a) He is a proper man's picture: He is handsome and fine-looking. (i v ) \-Vl-I."!I 1'<; as he is if he were to despise Portia? If he were to despise Portia, Portia would not be in the least angry and would forgive him. (c) 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 or Italian and IP6rtia's knowledge of English twAs very poor. (b) How oddly he is suitedl: He is dressed very Slla.H~dy. were to lIlarry the: Count? It would What shows that the English lord has poor knowledge of the European languages? Why does Portia find it difficult to interact with him? if he were to love Portia passionately? Portia could never return his love since she could never possibly love twenty husbands. (v) Give any three negative qualities of the French lord, as described by Portia. Portia says that the French Lord is more attached' to his horse than the Neapolitan Prince and excels Count Palatine in frowning. If 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. n->fpl'l pd to as "a dumb show'? Why it: thp. haroJl said to be a 'dumb-show' ? 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. Here it means that the Englishman is unable to speak foreign languages and had to converse by means of signs as in a dumb-show. (v) Give a brief description of the Scottish Lord. 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. (vi) What type of contemporary relationship among England, Scotland and France is reflected in the description of the Scottish Lord? 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. _.~'-~~-~~~--"iiiIiIijjjjiiili-""""''''''''''''''''''''''-'''''''''''~'''''''''''=--__''=------------------------___'- Downloaded by ICSE hub '~ 18 THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK 5. 19 (ii) Who is Sibylla and who is Diana? Why are they referred to in the context? (i) How does the young German behave when he is sober and when he is drunk? If. the worse happens to Portia which would compel her to marry him, what would she do? When sober, the young German is less than a man in behaviour and whendrunk he is no better than a beast. If the worse happens to Portia, she will manage to do without him. (ii) ACT I Scene 2 Givethe meaning of: (a) when he is worst, he is little better than-a beast: When he is drunk, he is no better than a beast. (b) set a deep glass of Rhenish wine on the cbntrary casket- Place a tall goblet of Rhenish wine on the wrong casket. _,: :t (iii) What'planldoes Portia make to prevent the young German from choosing , the right 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. (iv) Why is the young German referred to as a sponge'? In Ovid's metamorphoses, Sibyl 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. 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. (iii) What does Nerissa say to introduce Bassanio? What were the feelings of Portia for Bassanio in this scene? To introduce Bassanio, Nerissa recalls the visit ofa 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 thathe fully deserves her praise. Her simple reply shows that she is already in love with Bassanio. (iv) In what sense can we say that the opening of the first two scenes of Act I give the plots of the -play? 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-storyThe bond-story is initiated in Scene 1 while the casket-story is initiated in Scene 2 of Act I. I A sponge constantly absorbs water. Similarly, a drunkard, who constantly takes liquor is' called a.tsponge'. Since the young German is a drunkard, Portia calls h.im a 'sponge'. (v) After Portia's speech; what does Nerissa say to console her about the suitors? Nerissa tells Portia to set aside her fears concerning the suitors. She says that they have informed her of their decision to go back home and not to press their courtship further unless Portia's father's decree concerning the caskets can be set aside and they may woo her in an ordinary way_ (v) Name the six suitors given in this scerie. Give two characteristics of each suitor described by Portia. The six suitors given in, this scene are: (i) The Neapolitan Prince from Naples, Italy, was a dashing youngster, as wild as a horse. He always talked about his horse. (ii) The County Palatine was always frowning and unusually gloomy. (iii) Monsieur Le Bon from France, had the characteristic of every man and had no personality of his own. (iv) Mr. Falconbridge from England, though handsome was strangely and unmannerly dressed and did not know Latin,. French or. Italian. 6. (i) What was Portia'sfc~.ther'swill as far as Portia's marriage was concerned? Portia's father's will was tha~her marriage will be decided by the lottery of the three caskets. The sui or, who chooses the right casket containing Portia's picture will be her usband. . (v) The Scottish Lord, was a coward and did not repay the Englishman who gave him a blow. (vi) 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- r THE MERCHANT 20 Downloaded by ICSE hub .. =-=='~.'..~=-=.=--====~-==--===--~~--====---=.~=~"~='~='-==-=-'-=-=-~"~~'~---~~"?F.-.--.--_--.._---~""-"~-------'-"--"~-'~~""-~--=-==~~~--~----------------------------------------------------- -=~~~~~~~~~----~.=.=-~.==== -= OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ACT I Scene journey to Tripolis, another is bound for the Indies, a third is voyaging to Mexico, fourth to England and others to various other distant places. He is so overconfident of his riches that he agrees to an unreasonable and dangerous bond. ACT I Scene 3 CO~TEXT 2. QUESTIONS '(i) Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: 1. Antonio -is bound to 4 Hol1.daccording 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 ~ntonio' s body that hf' may wish. It was very unwise of Antonio to misjudge Shylock's intentions and sign such a fatal bond. (ii) Give the meaning of: rhiloish foolishness (b) gratis: free of interest. (c) rate of usance: rate of interest. Can -you help me and will you do -me this favour? Shylock says that Antonio is a with the connotation 'good'? Give the meaning of: (a) loui simplicitu: May you stead _me? 'will you pleasure me? (iii) What is meant by 'a fawning publican'? Give three reasons why Shylock hates Antonio. Publicans were tax collectors for the Romans and were generally oppressive. They were hated by the Jews because they were agents of Romp, who collected taxes also from the Jews. Pubfir-an is a rian rral term of contempt and loathing in the mouth of a Jew. Shylock hates Antononio because he is at-Christian,lends money without interest and hurls abuses on him. (i) Give the conditions to which Antonio is bound. How wise was Antonio to bind himself to such conditions'? (ii) 21 3 good rn ari. Whrtt (iii) cJOf'S Shylock mean When Shylock says the above words, he means that Antonio is a reliable 'man, whose surety is _sufficient. to give a loan. (iv) Enumerate the possible threats to Antonio's business ventures as srare-d by Shylock, after the above extract. Shylock enumerates -the possible dangers to Antonio's merchandise ships -being only planks of wood- ar~ apt to be broken; the mariners being merely human beings, areIiable 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. (v) How can it be proved that Antonio is a prudent businessman but he is overconfident? . 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 Write the meaning of the following in your own words: ~f I can catch him once upon the hip, I will fl!ed [at the ancient grudge I bear him. The above 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. . (iv) What old grudge does Shylock have against Antonio? Shylockhad a long-standing grudge against Antonio becauseAntonio was a Christian and looked upon the holy Jewish race with contempt. He. used to lend money without interest and thus, bring down the rate of interest. He even spat on Shylock, kicked him and called him a 'cut-throat dog'. (v) What does the 'sacred nation' refer to? What insults has Antonio heaped upon Shylock? 'The Sacred Nation' is a reference to the holy Jewishrace. Antonio insults Shylock for his business deals and for earning profit by lending money on interest. .. En 22 usn;=; THE MERCHANT ,~,.. Era OF VENICE .... - HANDBOOK Downloaded by ICSE hub ACT I Scene 3 ~(vi) , How does Shylock plan to get the money immediately? What light does guided' and govemed the event. It was not a matter in the hands of men, like the taking of interest. this extract throw on Shylock's character? Shylock plans to get ~oney 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. (i) What topic is referred to in the extract? Who were Jacob and Abraham? 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. Ab!ar.am was the founder of the Hebrew nation and Jacobs' gtandfat:her. (ii) Gi~e the story of Jacob who got I{is'share as his payment' from Laban. Laban was Jacob's uncle, Jacob and, Laban entered into an agreement that Jacob would receive as his wages the lambs which were born ~ith spots or stripes. During the breeding season, Jacob arranged the wadden rods in such a way that the shadows of the rods should fall on the sheep. Consequently, most of the lambs were born spotted or stripped, and thus, they became Jacob's property. (iii) What is the difference between taking interest and receiving payment for one's labour? Taking interest means to charge specific amounts on the money given as loan for a specified period. Receiving payment, for one's labour means to take remuneration 'for one's service rendered. This is legitimate while taking interest is not in order. (iv) What role did Jacob's wise mother play to make him the third possessor? Esau and [acob rwere 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, [acob, through the crafty assistance of his mother, got the blessing of his father. (v) How does Antonio interpret Jacob's success after this extract? 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 23 4. (i) What is meant by 'shall we be beholding to you'? What is Rialto? 'Shall we be beholding to you' - this statement was made by Antonio and he wants to say to Shylock, "Are you going to lend us money?" Rialto was the Venetian Stock Exchange where the merchants met for the transaction of business. (ii) Give som~ examples to show that Shylock was ill-treated by Antonio. How dip Shylock react to Antonio's insutts? Shylock speaks of his ill-treatment at the hands of Antonio. He says that Antonio had spat upon his Jewish robe ill contempt and called him an unbeliever and a cur. He had also spatlupon 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. (iii) Why did Shylock bear Antonio's insults patiently? Shylock bore Antonio's insults patiently since, as 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) Give the causes, financial and racial, for Shylock's hatred for Antonio. 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. (v) What is the need for Antonio to borrow money 'from his enemy? Antonio needs toborrow money from his enemy Shylock to give it to Bassanio, his friend so that he can go to Belmont to woo the rich ,lady Portia. (vi) Which trait of Shylo~k's character emerges in this scene? In this scene, Shylock is presented .as shrewd, cunning and crafty. However, the most evident trait of his character is that of revenge - to take revenge on Antonio for all the insults heaped on him by Antonio. He is eager to execute the bond-document for this purpose. .-' 24 THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ,..- <_ _ .. -"- - .. 25 ACT I Scene 3 Downloaded by ICSE hub 6. 5. (i) What were the "sharries' which stained Shylock? (i) Who is a notary? Whom does Shylock want to take to the notary? Why? A notary is a Lawyer who has the authority to execute official and legal dealings and agreements, Shylock wants to take Antonio. to the notary to sign the bond document which stipulates that' the forfeit to be. paid will be a pound of flesh from any part of Antonio's body. 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) What is meant by "the present wants'? On what terms is the speaker willing to' supply the wants? . "The present wants' refer to the immediate need of Antonio - three thousand ducats to provide for Bassanio's trip to Belmont to woo Portia. The speaker is ready. to supply the wants provided Antonio signs a bond, according to '~;w:hich if Antonio is unable tOrpay 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. (iii) How does Antonio' storm Shylock? Why was Shylock willing to lend money without interest? 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 m.oney without interest because he wants to' trap Antonio in a fatal bond and take his revenge. (iv) vvhat did the speaker plUpuSe (ii) Give the meaning of: (a) single bond: agreement in which Antonio will be the only signatory . (b) merry sport: for a pleasant joke. (iii) What does Bassanio say to prevent Antonio from signing the bond? + (v) What is meant by Shylock when he says, "This is"kind I offer?" 'This is kind I offer )'011' rnearis this is the kindness that I offer you. This refers to his lending at money Without charging any lIllel'esL on it. (vi) Who is the third person, present at the scene? Why is he reluctant to agree to Shylock's terms? 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 agreement-on his account. He would rather remain as poor as he is now and do without his wants supplied at such a price. . ~ f f f (iv) Why IS Antonio confident that there is nu danger ill Sigllillg, LIte bond? What aspect of Antonio's character is shown in this incident? 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. to do irnrned iatcly after this? Immediately after this, the speaker proposes to Antonio to accompany him to a lawyerand 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. .3 Bassanio tells Antonio that he will not have him make such an agreement on his account. He adds that he would rather remain as poor as he is now and do without his 'wants supplied at such a price: (v) Why does Shylock insist on a pound of Antonio's flesh in the bond? Which aspect of his character is shown in his absurd demand? Shylock insists on a pound of Antonio's flesh to take revenge on' him 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 s'itu a tion, he wants to take revenge on Antonio and all Christians, who 1'1':'1:"51"111 tpd him and his race. Downloaded by ICSE hub THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ACT II Scene 1 CONTEXT ACT II Scene 1 ~idea 27 do you get about the character of the Prince of Morocco from the extract? . From the extract we know that the Prince of Morocco is a 'warrior and self-assured man. He has a large imposing physical app~arance 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 enjoysin his land from the nobles and best of maidens. QUESTIONS , .ead the extracts given' below and answer the questions that follow: 2. (i) Where does this scene take place? Who are present in the scene? What explanation does Morocco give for his dark complexion? This scene takes place in a room il} Portia's .house at Belmont. Pepple present are: Prince. of Morocco aridHis attendants, Portia, Nerrssaurid her attendants. Morocco says that he got his dark colour because of the fierce sun. He was born and brought irp in a country where the surris ver) dose to the earth. . , ii) What qualities does a creature born in north have? Why? Peopleborn in north are fair-skinned. This is because the sun's rays 'are so faint in the north that they are hardly able to melt the frost, snow and icicles. ~o is Phoebus and what is meant by Phoebus' fire? What test does the speaker propose, to prove 'whose blood is reddest'? Phoebus in Greekmythology is one of the namesof the Sun God, Apollo. "Phoebus' .fire" means the rays. of the sun. Morocco proposes that he should be .matched with any fair-skinned man born in the north. They should open their veins to see whose blood is .redder. Red blood "vas considered to' be a sign of courage. - :iv) What effect does the physical appearance of Morocco have on the brave men and the .prettiest women of his country? Morocco's physical appearance frightened the brave men whereas the prettiest women admired and loved it. :'VAwhat condition is the ~eakerprepared to change his darkcomplexion? ' f- CWLD c_.vO The speaker is prepared to change his dark complexion only to win over Portia's favour. . (i) Wha~he lottery of Portia's destiny? How does it prevent her from ~ight of voluntary choosing? Lottery hf Portia's destiny refers' to~tli.e lottery devised accordingf to her deceased father's will. According to the lottery, each suitor has to choose (rom amongst the three caskets pf 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. (ii) Give the meaning of: But if my father had not scanted me, And hedged me by his wit, to yield myself His wife who wins me by that means I told you, These lines mean: "If I had not been limited and restricted by my father's wisdom and obliged to accept for a husband the one who will succeed in winning me by the means I have told you." (iii) Ho~udent was Portia's father to have arranged her marriage through -----arotter),? Give a reason for your answer.. . Portia's father was prudent to have arranged for her marriage through a 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) Give the brief character sketch of the Prince of Morocco in this scene. 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. He Downloaded by ICSE hub to choose the right casket, the outcome depends only on chance as in a game of dice. 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. ~ 29 ACT II Scene 2 THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK 28 I~at final instruction does Portia give to Morocco before he is led to make the choice? . agree with Portia's statement that the Prince of Morocco stands as fair a chance as the other suitors? Give a reason to justify your opinion. Portia does not really mean that Morocco had a good chance of winning her " love, because in Act I,5cene 2 she holds her former suitors in contempt. She thinks the same of Morocco because he is boastful. Portia treats him with perfect courtesy and tact and speaks as if she holds him in high esteem. - 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 not make the attempt or swear in the Chapel before choosing, that if he makes the wrong choice, he will never again speak to any lady on the subject of marriage. ..~oes Portia ask Morocco to go to the ,temple before he makes the choice of the casket? - 3. Befo,p:>he makes the choice of the Casket, Portia asks Morocco to go to the temp lETtp swear an oath that if he makes the wrong clioi ce, he will never agdlil'speuk to any Indy on the snpj ct of marriage. (i) Whal id;meant by a 'scimitar'? What conquests did Morocco make by 11sine his scimitar? !: "Scimitar" means sword. By using his sword, Morocco had slam the Emperor of Persia and a Persian Prince, who had defeated Sultan Solyman of Turkey thrice. I -i tACT II Scene 2 : (ii)/Sf~wo of the brave deeds Morocco is prepared t6 carry out in order ,-,/ to win Portia. The brave deeds Morocco is prepared to perform in order to win Portia are: (i) to challenge the most brave warrior on earth. (ii) snatch away the young sucking cubs from the mother bear and dare CONTEXT QUESTIONS Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: 1. her wrath. . ~~~~o are Hercules,and Lichas? What could happen if they were to play a game of dice? In what way is this exa.mple applicable to Morocco? (i) Who is Launcelot Gobbo? What inner struggle is going on in his conscience? What does his struggle show about the contemporary Christian practice? . In Greek mythology, Hercules was renowned for his manliness, strength and exploits. Lichas was his 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. L~unc.elot Gobbo is Shylock's servant. An inner struggle is going on in hIS mirid between his conscience advising him to be a faithful servant and. the ~evil tempting him to leave Shylock's service and take up serv.lc~WIth Ba~samo. Launc~lot's ~nner struggle shows the contemporary Christian practice of strugghng WIth the temptation to yield to it or not. (iv) Why is the fortune said to be blind? What does Morocco fear since the blind fortune is leading him to choose the casket? The goddess fortune is usually represented blindfolded. Fortune is said to be blind due to the unaccountable variations 'in her dispensation of favours to mankind. He fears that as the blind fortune is leading him ",.. (~~L-Why---&~esLauncelot ..- want to run away from the Jew? What does his conscience advise him to do? ~auncelot want~ ~o run away from the Jew because his master, Shylock IS.the very devil m human form. According to Launcelot, Shylock is a miserly man under whose service he remains famished. Besides, he fears 7 Downloaded by ICSE hub r---' \ THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK 3CJ that he would becomeaIew if he served Shylock any longer. Initially, his _conscience tells him not to run away from Shylock's household and to be care~l. 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. (iii) means 'my father who begot rne". Old Gobbo cannot recognise (i~Umera~e the reasons given the master. by Launcelot's conscience :' to stay on with, (ii) Why is old Gobbo does Launcelot out if his son -Launcelot, household is snllthere. Launcelot directions to Shylock's \J~t Cobbo has brought in Shylock's Gobbo by giving him wrong it was a difficult direction to follow. to give to t~e Jew? What does Launcelot a dish of cooked doves to give to the Jew- Launcelot tells his father to give Shylock a rope to hang himself any present (v) Launcelot because he has half-starved with rather than. him. plays a comic role in this scene. Give two examples provided of comedy by him. directions asks Launcelot which Launcelot The directions example are the way to Shylock's gives him provide too confusing is Launcelot's' asking for Old Gobbo his fathers' house, real comedy the wrong in the scene. to follow. The second blessing. He kneels in 3. .' . (i) Why does Lauricelot use hlgh-soundmg - Gobbo? What does Shakespeare context about . hi conversation with s m IS ~. r t the audience m this want to convey _ 0 -' the habit of some people wor d in his time? Launcelot ~~are Launcelot father'? Why can't and old Gobbo? What is meant by :tru<,-begotten old Cobbo recognise his son? Launcelot and Old Gobbo are in a street in Venice. "True-begotten father' before his father. Being blind, his father touches Launcelot's face and says that D bbi hi t-horseLauncelot has more hair on hIS face than that 0 m, IS car . The theme of conflict-between the good and the evil is shown in this scene. .Launcelot's conscience advises him to stay on with his master while .tl).e _ devil advises him .to flee. He feels the devil's advice as good and that of the conscience as rigid. He follows the good advice of the devil. confuses as a servant say to his father about it? Bassanic, a Christian. and the evil shown How to him to . house. present has Gobbo brought "\,Then Gobbo the goad who was working Gobbo says that by the saints, Finally, Launcelot obeys the devil. The theme of racial discrimination is brought out in Launcelot's decision to run away because he runs a\vay from his master, Shylock, who was a Jcw and takes up service with of conflict between Jew's house? directions (iii) What was Gpbbo's reaction to the direction~ given to him by Launcelot? to run away? " (vi) How is the theme this -scene? for the way to Master the old man while giving Old Gobbo is looking for the way to the jew's house to go there to find t Finally, whom does Launcelot obey - the devil or his conscience? How is the theme of racial discrimination brought out in Launcelot's decision looking confuse reach the Jew's house? Launclot'sconscience 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. (v) his son as he is more than half-blind. Launcelot's speech providessome comic relief in the play. Why was such a relief needed .in the context of the play? [Hint: What was happening in the previous scene?] 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" aitreacherous bond that stipul lh~s a pound of his flesh in case he forfeits the agreement. - 31 ACT II Scene 2 uses high-sounding words in his conversation with Gobbo . I I . and is a gentleman. him that he possesses classica earnmg - . - -. di the habit of some vam h Shakespeare wants to convey to t e au tence . to impress people of his time who pretended to be what they were not. ,---- .....-.- .. ,_U _ THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK 2 '-":.!iIiIIi- ACT II Scene 2 'accDrding to Fates and Destinies, and such odd sayings, the Sisters Three and such branches of learning, iii) How does Gobbo react to the news of the apparent loss of his son? Old Gobbo is stunned on hearing that his ~on is dead. He states that his son w~s his" only support in his old age. iv) How does Launcelot show dramatically that he is Gobbo's son? Why does the Iormer refer to his mother's name: in the context? When Gobbo asks Launcelot to tell l iim whether his son is really dead or not, Launcelot dramatically confesses that he is 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~does Gobbo show by words and actions that he is fond of his son? Gobbo is fond of his son. When Launcelot tells him that his son is dead, Gobbo is shocked to' hear it and larnents that his son was his only' support in his old age. Further Gobbo does not believeLaunceluts' confession till he mentions the name of his mother. When Launcelot tells him that he is his son, Gobbo, being blind, feels Launcelot's face to ascertain that he is actually his son. ':vi) -Give any two humorous situations frorn this scene. One l'uirnoroui. situation is v"hpn T.auncclot gives Gobbo directions to p;o to Shylock's house. The directions are so confusing that Gobbo does not follow it. Another humorous" situation is the scene of Launcelot asking his fathers' blessing. He kneels in front of his father. His father feels his beard and says"that Launcelot has more hair on his face than their cart-horse has on his tail. I. (i) What has just happened that makes Gobbo say that Launcelot has changed? What present did Gobbo bring? To whom does he want to give it? 33 When Gobbo remarked that Launcelot has more hair on his face "than Dobbin, their shaft-horse has on his tail, Launcelot responded 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 Cobbo rem9:rked that Launcelot has changed. Gobbo has brought a d.ish 6{' cooked doves to be given to -.Shylock. ii) Why does Launcelot call old Gobbo 'father' in the first line of the extract? Give the meaning of: Launcelot calls Old Gobbo 'father' in' the first line of the extract as he plans to reveal his identity gradually to him. In the given lines Launcelot tells Gobbo that according to his Fate or Destiny or"the Three Sisters of the' ancient Greeks and such other branches of learning the young man is dead. Downloaded by ICSE hub (ii) Give the meaning of: (a) My master's a very Jew: My master is a typical jew, i.e., he is a miserly man. (b) give him a halter: give him a rope to hang himself with. (iii) How can you~o;nclude from the extract that ltatlncelot has been suffering in the Jew's service? In the extract Launcelot tells his father that 'under Shylock's service he has grown so thin for want of pruper f60d that his ribs ann bones are standing out prominently and can be counted with the finger. This shows that L~uncelot has been suffering in the Jew's service. , (~,~L,W-hat-doyou find strange in the expression: You may tell every finger have with my ribs? I Launcelot means to say that anyone can count all his ribs by feeling them with a finger. but Launcelot reverses the orcler, thus achieving a comic effect. ,(v) Wh9-J-special privilege would Launcelot have if he serves Bassanio? ---"'-what would happen if Launcelot were to serve the Jew 'any longer'? If Launcelot serves Bassanio, he will have the privilege of having flew uniforms. According to Launcelot if he works any longer for the [cw , he may become a Jew himself. He means that it is .lmposstble for him to remain in Shylock's service any further. (vi) What kind of attitude against the Jews is shown in this scene? 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. Downloaded by ICSE hub THE 34 MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ACT II Scene 2 (ii) ~5. Give the meaning 'i~his service, Launcelot to accept his son, Launcelot cuts him 'short and tells Bassaniothathewants to ser've him: . (ii) What .impact .is the palm-reading by Launcelot likely to make on the audience? The palm-reading by Launcelot provides the audience a comic relief and foretells the good fortune that may happen in the life of Launcelot. ". . 'j" (iiit.. W.hat does .' danpers Lauri.celot predict . about his wives and his escape from to his life? After reading hi~ palm, Launcelot foretells that he will have a long life. He will marry a large number of wives (eleven widows and nine maids in all). He w ill escape thrice from drowning escape (iv) What after employing did Bassanio give to the Gobbos and to. his servants Launcelot? ~hose of his other servants. (v) Before this extra~t'Launcelot referred to a proverb which is &ppli~able both to Shylock and t9. Bassanio, What was the proverb and how is it applicable to both of them? n,.e old -p~ove!'b that Launcelot mentions is: 'The grace of God. is wealth , enough". l-{e .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. But he has 'wealth enough'. 6. (i) Give the 'context Bassanio ir).- which Bassanio speaks speaks these words to Gratiano to him to permit him to accompany your lively spirits (iii) Briefly summarise by exercising the advice given byBassariio a little moderation. to Gratiano in the extract. 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. :\_~~y~es Bassanio ask Gratiano to b~have properly in Belmont? Bassanio asks Gratiano to behave properly in Belmont because he fears that ~or';people who' don't know Cratiano, his behaviour will appear as faulty. His wild behaviour will be misunderstood at Belmont and Bassanio may lose all chances of marrying Portia. (v) What assurance.does After employing Launcelot, Bassanio tells the Gobbos to go to Shylock and bid him farewell and then reach his house. He tells his servants to' get a uniform for Launcelot with more decorations or ornamental stripesthan To tone down and will have a hair-breadth once from falling out from a feather bed. instructions of: To allay with some cold drops of modesty Thy skipping spirit, (i) How has Launcelot shown that he could speak for himself to be employed by Bassanior When Old Gobbo delays in asking Bassanio 35 these words. when the latter makes a request him on his trip to Belmont. Gratiano give to Bassanio about the latter's ad vice? 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 istrying to please his grandmother by showing a quiet and serious behaviour. (vi) What exception night? Why? to Gratiano's behaviour is accepted for the particular Bassanio tells Gratiano that his rude behaviour will be tolerated for the night because of the party. This is because Bassanio wants that night to be orie of fun and mirth. He. will be sorry to s~e Gratiano in a sad mood. Bassanio would prefer to see him in his wildest spirits and be in his most amusing mood. p... THE 36 MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK Downloaded by ICSE hub ACT H Scene 3 37 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. ACT. II Scene. 3 2. CONTEXT QUESTIONS Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: (i) How does Launcelot bid farewell to Jessica? In this context, what are your feelings for Launcelot, Jessica and Shylock? 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. Launcelot is 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 ,lis he is still obstinate, miserly and with evil intentions. Further, he shall lose his daughter as well as money. 1. (i) Give reasons for Launcelot's leaving Jessica's house. Launcelot left Jessica's house since her father Shylock was a miserly Jew and his stay as his servant has h~lf.,.f~mis~edhim. H~ felt that a~y further slay -with him would make hrm Iike the Jew. Besides, Ba~s~mo has accepted him in his service and Launcelot feels that Bassanio IS a better master. (ii) Give the meaning at: Our house is hell, and ihou., a merry devil, Didst rob it of some taste of tediousness" (ii) Why does Jessica regret being the daughter 'of Shylock? .What is the 'heinous sin' referred to in the extract? Is it really a 'sin'? Give reason~ to justify your answer. Jessica regrets being the daughter of Shylock due to his behaviour, his 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 si~'. It is not really a sin because' even if she is Shylock'sdaughter by birth, she does not actually detest. her father but detests his miserliness and tyrannical nature. In the above .lines, Jessica says that her house is hell because of her father's avarice.' Launcelot with his jolly nature and with his antics and nonsensical capering has relieved it of much boredom and dullness. (iii) How does Jessica show in words and action that she liked Launcelot's presence in her house? Jessica shows in w orcls and actions that she liked Laun.celots' prese~ce in the house. He calls him a merry devil and thanks hun for reducmg the boredom arrd dullness in her house. She offers him a ducat too. (iv) What errand does jessica giveto Launcelot? What precautions does she ask him to take :whil~ doing the errand? Jessica gives to Launcelot the errand of delivering a letter to Lorenzo at supper in Bassanios house that night.- She advises him to deliver the letter to Lorenzo secretly. (v) How does Jessica show herself as a scheming but prudent young lady? In what way is her character different from that of Portia? 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 Bassanios party secretly. Her character is entirely (iii) Give the meaning of: But though I am a daughter to his blood, I urn nul to his rnurtners, The above lines mean that although I am his daughter by birth, I don't have his habits. . .. (iv) Which promise has Lorenzo to keep? Describe the strife that jessica is going to end. 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. (v) Explain Jessica's relationship with her father which is shown in the scene. ..-- ...... ,.~, .,'"'''---7-'' THE 40 MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK An atmosphere of activity and pre-occupation prevails in this scene. Activities include preparations forthemasquerade and Jessica's elopement. Pre-occupation regcirding the dinner party dominates the scepe: Eve.n Shylock is' invited for the party. Launcelot acts as a messenger m this scene. He delivers Jessica's letter to Lorenzo and Lorenzo's reply to Jessica. He invites Shylock for Bassartio's party on Bassanio's behalf. Jessica and Lorenzo taking advantage of Shylock's absence from horne makes a planto 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. n Scene' 5 1. . CiYWhy does Shylock accept the invi~ati~nto di~er? On. w~at grounds . ._//. did Shylock refuseto accept an invitation to dinner earlier m the play? Shylock accepts the invitation to d~er out of hatred and to eat the fo~d of the extravagant Christian,. Bassam? In ~ct I, S.ce~e3 ~hen Bassanio invites him for dinner he refuses to dine with Christians smce they were pork-eaters. He asserted then that he would n~ver ea~,.dr!nk or pray with'Christians although he is ready to do business with tnem. // (i9 Why "isShylock unhappy to accep~th~.invitation this time too? .vV~ois the prodigal Christian? Give the significance of the word: prodigal. . Shylock is unhappy to accept the invitation this time too as .he fee!s a .premonitiori of some misfortune abou~to take pIac.e.The prevlOus mght he had a dream about money-bagswhich was considered as abad omen. Bassani~ is referred to as the prodigalChristian because heis awasteful, who spends money extravagantly which he has borrowed from Shylock. Prodigal isa reference to the pro~igalson describ~d. in the Bible who wasted his share of wealth by lavishand careless living. Shylock had a dream about money bags on the previous night. To dream aqput money and all kinds of coins,was considered as a bad omen. 'INs made Shylock think that there was 'some evil being plotted against him. (i) Who is the speaker of the above liries?To whom is he giving his advice? Why should the doors be locked? 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 .50 that no sound .of foolish displays may enter his serious house. (ii) Where is the speaker going? What reason does he give for his going out? Who was Jacob? Why does the speaker swear by Jacob's staff? The speaker is going for Bassanios 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 thejewish race. According to Bible, Jacob, the ancestor of Shylock had a staff that proved a blessing to him. In Genesis 32:12,Jacob boasts that he had crossed river Jordan only with a staff yet returned with co~frren. ._Jiii}---Give the meaning of: (a) Clamber not you up to the casements. Do not climb up to see from the windows. (iii) Give the meaning of: (a)' I am' not bid for love: I am notinvited out of love. . (v) YV_hat-sort of a bad omen did Shylock have which made him think that '~ere is some evil being. plotted against him? 2. QUESTIONS . Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: I.. 41 \.~essica and Lorenzo take advantage of Shylock's absence from home during dinner? CONTE~T I ACT II Scene 5 (v) Describe the atm.osphere of activity and pre-occupation prevailing in this short ~cene. ACT I Downloaded by ICSE hub ,.. . (b) I am right loath to go: I hate to accept the invitation to dinner. (b) sound of shallow foppery. shrill notes of the fife. rs Downloaded by ICSE hub - THE 42 MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK {iv)/Jv-vllo are the 'Christian fools with varnished faces'? What were they planning against the speaker? What warning did the speaker have of .c.:> it earlier? 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, Lorenzo with' the speaker's money and jewellery. The speaker had warning of this in the form of a ' dream where he saw money bags and coins'. (v) Does the person to whom the advice is given, follow the speaker's advice? Why? ~ The advice was given to Jessica by he/father, Shylock. She did not follo.vv the adyice and used the occasion of ma;squerade to elope with Lorenzo. (vi) Sucimarise the advice of the speaker in your own words. The speaker ad vices 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 of the 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 no sound of the foolish display enters his sober house. 3. (i) What is meant by the "patch' in the extract? What reasons does Shylock give to Jessica for parting with Launcelot? The word 'patch' in thp. extract means the clown or the fool 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 borrowe oney. (ii) om does Shylock wish to be ruined? Why? Shylock wishes Bassanio to be ruined because he wants to take revenge upon Antonio and can do so if Bassanio and Antonio fail to repay the loan on a stipulated date. ACT II Scene 5 ( iii) \,,~nal: 43 at UL d~es Shylock mean by saying 'drones hirve no . , t~ t WIt rwi h me'? By the, above words, Shylock means that laz" 1 " J peop e cannot live WIth him. Shylock says that Launcelot is lazy and t b hi " . . , . , canno e IS servant,. so he allows him to Jom Bassanio s service. Whar'i~ (iv.) meant by the 'borrowed '....___.~b d?" orrowe . purse'? . For wh' , at purpose .was It 'Borrowed purse' refers to the three thousand d . . ucats borrowed by Bassanio from, Shylock on the basis of the bond . , SIgned by Antonio. The money was borrowed to enable Bassanio to go t B I . .. , .' , , 0 e mont and wm Portia 111, ffi:arriage after partIClpating in the latter .of ;,;, : ,~ Y caskets. (~oe6-St1y-Iock ask Jessica to shut doots? Give the ", , biInd ,as f t fin.d' ' meamng of: Fast Shylock tasks Jessica to shut the doors to rnake hi h . . IS ouse safe from revellers taking part In the .masquerade. He quotes I . .,. . . '. . an 0 d proverb ' fast bind, fast find which means that if you lock a thi , . . " , ll1g up, you will find It safe. (Leave secure and you will find all secure.) (vi) Describe briefly how Shylock becomes an inst rument of fate in this scene, In this scene, Shylock becomes an instrument of f t t furt ' . ~ a e 0 urther the action in the plot. Un the one hand, his desire for '.. '.. revenge upon Antomo is revealed because he goes to the supper to help t o 'consume Bassanio's borro-wed money.He overlooks his religious prio . I " " . .. . ". Clpes which forbade him dining WIth Christians. He even ignores the p . '. .,... ;. '. . , . . remonlhons of unpendin evil because ot hIS revengeful nah,ire. This pro .d d J .',' ' , . g . VI e essica an occasion to ee from home WIth money and jewellery a d t lc . ,. , . . ,n 0 e ope WIth Lorenzo a Christian. Thus, fate has used Shylock to fu th . ' r er ItS plans. fl. Downloaded by ICSE hub THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK 44 ACT II Scene 6 ACT II Scene 6 o~r the same road, on its return journey with the same energy and -,.../animation with which it set out. (vi) CONTEXT 45 All things that are, \,.,....t1:re with more spirit chased than enjoy'd. QUESTIONS How fa~ is this statement brought mit by giving the example of a ship? Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: "All things ..... enjoy'd" means that the pursuit of any desired object is more enjoyable a task and gives more joy compared to the pleasure one gets on its attainment. The truth of the statement is brought about by the example of a ship. A ship with its sails spread and flags flying, sails out from the harbour like a high-spirited spendthrift youth in search of pleasure. But after being tossed about' and hugged by the rough wind; it comes back to the port with broken planks and torn sails. It looks like the returning of the prodigal son, ruined by the faithless gales. 1. (i) Where does this scene take place? Who has out-dwelt his hour? Normally what do the lovers do as far as the appointed time is concerned? This scene takes place in the street outside Shylock's house , Lorenzo has out-dwelt. his hour tomeet Gratiano and Salarino for themasque. Lovers generally rush to the meeting place long before the appointed hour. . , ., 2. (iir Who is Venus? How do the Venus's pigeons behave as far as love is ,/ concerned? (i) Where is Lorenzo and who are his sweet friends? Lorenzo is in the street outside Shylock's house. His sweet friends are Salarino -and Gratiano. 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 fasterwhen they are journeying to bind new love more firmly, than they do when love is already pledged and certain. (ii) What did his friends say about the anxiety of those in love? 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 they are journeying to find new love than they do when love is once pledged and certain. (iii) How does Gratiano explain in the extract the state of people in love? 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. (iii) What were the affairs 'that kept the speaker away so long? . (iy}~Give the meaning of: 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. _/ ,__(a) . he out-dwells -his hour. he overstays the time fixed by him to meet. ,__('Dr'yo seal love's bonds new-made. . (ivj'What is meant by 'to play the thiev.es for wives'? How apt are these remarks in the context? V To bind new love more firmly. ~xplain the meaning of: ,___jAl'nere is the horse that doth uniread again ~. tedious measures with the unbaied fire ~bove lines mean that _youwill not find even a horse travel again '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 occasion. 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 long time. Downloaded by ICSE hub - '"'5"..' -,,'.,.,'", THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK 46 ACT II Scene 7 .."'/ "Jv) and costumes and took part in a torchlight pr(}ce's's'ionplaying 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 containing her theft and the fact of her elopement. . What does Lorenzo ask Jessica to do later in the scene? What is jessica's reaction to his request? 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. ~,~e These lines mean: "The duty of a torch-bearer would expose me to all when I should be concealed." Jessica means that her shameful disguise ofa page-bay'S dress is too frivolous and Lorenzo should not light them further by h~ving her as torch-bearer., ; After this extract, Jessica appears on the stage. She appears on the stage dressed in a boy's clothes, as a page-boy . ~:~ . ''if- the ~eanirig of: Why, 'tis an office. of discovery, love; And I should be obscured. (vi) Who appears on the stage after the extract? In what condition does the person appear? .~ 47 .: (vi) How is Je si~a's feminine nature highlightedm 3. the extract? Jessica's .fem~ninenature is highlighted in the ~xtract. Her shyness at her male clothes shows her feminine modesty as.in' Elizabethan times women never wore men's clothes.Alsoshe comesdown from her house after making sure that the person, who has corne to take her is Lorenzo, her lover. ._).i:)~ -'What do you think is sent down in the ,casket? How can you conclude . tHat the contents in the casket arervaluable? f 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. ACT II Scene' 7 (ji)': What is meant by 'I am much ashamed of my exchange'? Why is the p')(rh;::mep. needed? --- The above words mean that Jessica is much ashamed that she has to change her dress to' that of a page-boy. This p)(d~'r!nr,p WrlS l1PPOPc:I for her to elope with Lorenzo. /" ""j-iii) In what way is love blind in the context? Who is referred to as 'Cupid'? Why would he blush? 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 elope 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. gy,Y'/What is meant by a torch-bearer? In what way would Jessica hold a -.. candle to her shames, if she were a torch-bearer? Masquerades were dramatic performances where the players wore masks CONTEXT QUESTIONS Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: 1. (i) Who is asked to draw aside the curtains? Who is askedjo make his choice? 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. (ii) What does Portia say-later to the prince regarding. the right casket? 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 will be in the right casket. If he selects that one, then she will be his wife. . zmr 48 THE MERCHANT ....... n=;.. - OF VENICE - HANDBOOK Downloaded by ICSE hub . ACT II Scene 7 (iii)" vyhich casket does' the prince of Morocco finally choose? What are the "\/ reasons for his choice? 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. Portia is an angel and hence her portrait may be in the golden casket. ..~...(iv) For what reasons does the prince reject the other two caskets? The prince rejects the base lead arguing that it cannot contain such a noble person like Portia-and silver which is ten times inferior to gold cannot contain Portia as she is such a rich gem. .. !. .. , birth, his wealth, his virtues and his upbringing. Above all, he is Worthy of her because of his deep affection for her. . . (iv) Give the meaning of: \_j9} When the prince opens' the casket he finds a skull and in its eyeless socket a scroll. (vi) How does the prince bid farewell to Portia? What does Portia say when the prince leaves the place? Morocco bids farewell to Portia with the warm-hearted ness of a lover and says he must accept the cold .comfort of the rejected. He says that his sorrow is too great for many words. Those who have lost their hearts' desire depart thus sadly. When the prince leaves the place, Portia calls it a good riddance and wishes that every suitor like him should make 'a similar choice. 2-. (i) On which casket do the words, Who choosetli me shall get as much as he deserves, appear? The above words appear on the silver casket. ..Jii) Why does Morocco initially doubt his worth to deserve the lady? 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. ,jili) Why does he change his mind and say that he deserves the lady? Morocco, after having doubts about his worth to win Portia, later all. changes his mind. He feels that he deserves Portia because of his royal And weigh thy value with an even hand: And compare. your personal worth impartially. '-_Q?)...-atoeak disabling of myself: A sign of weakness which would bring discredit on myself . (v)-/'Why does Morocco think that Portia's picture is not in the lead casket? ./ Morocco read the inscription on the lead casket which stated that .whosoever selects it must be prepared to give all and to risk everything, Morocco declares that no one except a fool will be prepared' to risk everything for the sake of dull le':ld. He argues that lead cannot contain such a noble person like Portia. '. , (v) What does the prince find.when he opens the casket? .. 49 3. (i) Who speaks these words? Where is he? What has he said about his courage in an earlier scene? The Prince of Morocco speaks these words. He is in a room in Portia's 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 Solyrnan 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. , (ij). What is the significance of the words 'shrine' and 'saint' in the context? Which breathing saint does the speaker refer to? Shrine is a place where any sacred relic of a 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) What warning is given by Portia to the speaker before he makes the choice? 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. '--lJIW ..- ".-- _ ... Downloaded by ICSE hub THE 50 MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK 51 ACT II Scene 8 (iv) Who are 'they' that are referred to in the extract? What difficulties do they face while coming? (iv) After opening the casket, the prince finds a dead skull and a scroll. Explain what is written on the scroll. 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. On the scroll it is written that things which make the most brilliant show are not always the truest metal. For the sake of mere gold, hundreds have risked and sacrificed their lives. Costly gold-plated tombs may be erected, but they have no real value. Decayand death are all they contain. The message. tells the Prince that if he had been as wise a.shis 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. ,.~v:) Give' the meaning of: . -:.(a) Hyrcanian deserts:Hyrcania was a province of the ancientPersian empire. Hyrcanian deserts were deserts .lying in the south of Caspian sea. \{b~'e watery kingdom: The oceans and its fierce waves do not stop suitors from abroad. (v) (vi)//Why does the speaker reject the leap casket? Explain how the theme of appearance and reality is shown in the .choice made by the prince. The the1n~of appearance and reality is sH:o~nin the choice madeby 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, i!:l fortune and outward graces, h~ 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 appearan.ce. 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. The speaker rejects the lead casket since on it was written that whoever selects it must be prepared to give all-and to risk everything. Morocco i declares that only a fool will risk everything for the dull lead. He thinks lead too crude a metal even to enclose the winding sheet when she is buried in the grave. He asserts that the lead casket cannot hold Portia's picture and' so he rejects it. 4. (i) Why-does the prince think that Portia's picture is not in the silver casket? ACT II Scene 8 '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 . .(ii) What is the 'sinful thought'? Why is it so? CONTEXT '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 ,.rgem like Portia can never be set.in anything less than gold. / QUESTIONS Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: !.. : '-~1iii) Describe the coin' referred to in the extract. What is the difference between the angel on the coin and the angel in the casket? I The 'coin' referred to in the extract is the gold coin in England on which .the figure of Archangel Michael standing and piercing a dragon was engraved on one side. The coin was called an angel and 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. \... -' (i) What is meant by 'a passion so confused, so strange, outrageous, and so variable'? Why was the Jew so excited? In the above 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 robbinghim 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, excessiveand frequently changing. ! Downloaded by ICSE hub THE MERCHANT 52 OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ACT II Scene 8 53 (ii) Earlier, how did the Jew trouble the Duke? Where did the Duke go and what were his. findings? (ii) What did Salarino hear from the Frenchman, the previous day? Why was. the news quite startling? 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 even. accompanied the Duke to search for Lorenzo and Jessica on board Bassanio's ship. By the time they reached the place, the ship had already 'set sail. The Duke was told by someone that Lorenzo and Jessica had been seen sitting together in a gondola. In his .conversation with a Frenchman, Salarino heard that a richly laden ship from 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. ' ~~ What. did Shylock utter in his excitement? Besides money, what else . . did his daughter steal? 1 1 (iii) After hearing the news from the Frenchman, what, did Salarino wish? Salarino wished that the wrecked. ship might not be one of Antonio's ships. ;. In his excitement, Shylock utters confused cries for his daughter, who pad eloped with a Christian, takipg with her, his ducats and jewellery. Be wants justice from the law, Besides'money, Jessica has taken' away from Shylock some jewels, precious stones and diamonds. Salanio advises Salarino to tell Antonio what he has heard about a shipwreck. However, he advises .hirnnot to tell Antonio about the news immediately for it may make him sad. . (v) Explain how the news given by the Frenchman creates suspense in the _/,/ story. What would be Shylock's react~on after hearing the news? ,-(ivY Give the meaning of: ". .{a) double ducats: coins of double ducats. The news given by the Frenchman creates a suspense in the .story. The possibility of the wreckage of one of Antonio's ships casts a gloom 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. ,.(br"a' sealed bag: a bag that is securely sealed to ensure the security of its contents. (v)......-Explain how Shylock's lamentations add to the humour in the play. ,/ ' ,,' ;.. (iv) What 'advice does Salanio give to Salafino regarding Antonio? 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 the loss of his daughter and his ducats amuses the audience; Shylock's repetition of '0 my daughter! 0 my Christian ducats!' indicate his 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 a tone of mockery and jeer at him further .add to the. humour in the scene. (v9, Wha.t role do Salanio and Salarino play in this scene? Salanio and Salarino provide the information about recent events. They report Shylock'sfury 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. 3. 2. (i) What is meant by: 'Let good Antonio look he keep his day' ? What could be the consequence if Antonio failed to 'keep his day' ? (i) In what context has Antonio said the words given in quotation? Who '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 fails to keep his day, Shylock would take his revenge on Antonio. 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. quotes his words here? .......... THE 54 MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK Slubber not business for my sake, Bossanio Arragon is bound by the oath to observe three conditions. First, 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 wrongly he must depart at once without further words. He explicitly kept the last condition at the end of the scene. Bassanio, do not spoil your plan for my sake. <1?) But stay the very riping of the t~me. But stay as long as it would be necessary to attain your objective. (iii) What advice did Antonio give to Bassanio about the latter's stay in Belmont and his love affair? 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 bo~d. H~ advises Bassanio to be cheerful" and devote himself entirely to win his lady-love in a most suitable manner. (iv) p~scribe how' Antonio parted frornBassanio, their relationship? (iii) How wise is it to arrange marriages through a lottery system where chance plays a significant role? What does Portia feel in this regard? How does Nerissa justify the system in Portia's case? It is not wise to arrange marriages through-a tottery 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 falhel/::; {will arul asserts that she will abideby it and would remain 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 her father's will. she will be chosen by someone who will truly love her. What does it show about While parting, Antonio's eyes were filled with tears. He turned his face away and extended his hrmd behirid him. Then, moved by his 10v~, he held the haru ..Is of Bassanio and they parted from each other. It shows that there is great .love and affection between them. (iv) It is said that Arragonis too proud and self-opinionated. Do you agree with this statement? Give two reasons to justify your answer. (v) What do Salanio and Salarino decide to do at the end of this scene? Prince Arragon is too proud and self-opinionated. While making his selection, he calls the common people as 'fool multitude' and again as 'barbarous multitudes'. He says that he will not 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. At the end of the scene, Salanioand Salarino decided to look for Antonio and raise his low spirits with some amusement. ACT II Scene 9 CONTEXT QUESTIONS Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: 1. '(i) What proper honour is given to Arragon to indicate that he is a prince? . To honour Arragon as a prince, trumpets were sounded as he entered the room and Portia addressed him as noble prince'. J Downloaded by ICSE hub55 (ii) Enumerate the three conditions in the oath which Arragon was supposed to take. Which conditions in the oath he explicitly keeps at the end of the scene? (ii) Give the meaning of: (a) ACT II Scene 9 2. (i) What does the inscription on the gold casket say? Which casket does the speaker choose? The inscription on the gold casket says 'who chooses me shall gain what many men desire'. The speaker chooses the silver casket. (ii) How does Arragon interpret themeaning gold casket? of. 'many men' given on the Arragon says that the words 'many men' probably refer to the foolish majority, who are so slow-witted and who have so little wisdom that Downloaded by ICSE hub ACT II Scene 9 THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK 56 who succeed without having any inner merit. But he deserves' because of his inherited nobility. they judge o~ly by appearances and outward glitter. Their untaught eyes never see the inner meaning of things, but is content to remain on the outside like the swallow. I {iii) Give the meaning of: (iii) How does Arragon compare the martlet to the foolish multitude? To cozen fortune and be honourable 'Without the stamp of merit? Arragon compares the multitude 'to the martlet. The martlet, instead of seeking a sheltered place for its nest, constructs it in the most exposed places like the outer wall, unprotected from, any stormy weather or any acc~dentwhich may occur. Similarly, the foolish common people who judge by the outside of things, fall into errors and calamities. ' To try to cheat fortune and win something without merit. It means no one ought to be allowed to deceive and trick fortune by asking her for what he does not deserve. (iv) Ho,": does Arragon explain further the importance of deserving before gettmg ap honoured position? : ' (iv) Give the meaning of: . t (a) in the force and road of casualty.' Arrag6n further tells that .no man should' aspire to be honoured unless! he deserves it. Arragon wishes that all the positions of rank, dignity and o~ces were bestowed on the deserving, instead of being obtained dishonestly. If this happens, many low ranking people would be separated! out from the ranks of the truly honourable. open to disaster and in the very path of danger. cb) 57 rank me with the barbarous multitudes. I don't put myself at the level of the ignorant and foolish common people. (v) How is the theme of appearance and reality brought out in the choice of caskets? The theme of appearance and reality is brought out in the choice of caskets. Arragon rejects the lead casket calling it base lead because of its dull and plain appearance. He says lead must present a more attractive appearance than it does before he gives or risks anything for it. He rejects the gold casket saying he will not choose what many people desire. He will not put himself at the level of ignorant common people. The word 'deserves' meaning 'merit' on the silver cakset attracts Arragon and he selects it. (v) Which casket did Arragon finally choose? What did he feel after making the choice? . 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 for a long time before speaking. He says that there is such a difference between that creature and the picture he hoped to see. He asks Portia whether he deserves no more than the head of a fool He wants to know whether that is his prize and whether he deserves nothing more than that. 4. (i) After which incident does Arragon speak these words? In what mood 3. ishe? With which fool's head did he come to woo? (i) What does the inscription all. the silver casket say? The inscription on the silver casket says, 'who chooses me shall get as much as he deserves'. (ii) Why did the- words of the inscription on the silver .casket appeal Arragon? to Words all.the inscription on the silver casket appeal to Arragori because the word "deserves' meaning 'merit' in the inscription appeals to him.He thinks himself to be the most deserving. He feels that there are many Arragon 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. (ii) Which second head did he get? Briefly state what was written on the Schedule attached to the second head. The second head he got was from the silver casket. The scroll attached to the second head says that silver metal of the casket was tested seven Downloaded by ICSE hub THE 58 MERCHANT OF VENICE ACT II Scene 9 - HANDBOOK 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 is 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. Heshould now leave as his chance is over. 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 messenger, who rides in advance of his master. (iv) What were the reactions of Portia and Nerissa to 'the announcement of a new suitor? 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 relative' of his. Then Portia tells Nerissa to come quickly along with her to meet this messenger of Cupid, who has arrived in ~uch a courteous manner. Nerissa prays to Cupid, the god of love, that the lord announced be Bassanio if such is his will. (iii) Which casket does the speaker choose? Why did he choose that casket? The speaker chooses .the silver casket. The motto of the silver casket appeals to .the speaker. It says 'who chooses me shall get as much as he, deserves'. He feels that he des~rves Portia because of his inher\~ed nobility. (iv) After the departure of the prince, what did Portia say about him? , 59 (v) Why does 5)Portiasay to the servant to be iil~nt and not to praise the young Venetian further? !, After the departure of the prince, Portia says th~t 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) State the old saying uttered by Nerissa after the prince's departure. After the Prince's departure, Nerissa utters an old saying.r''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 Tt impl,ips that it is destiny l.lral has saved Portia from two unsuitable suitors and it i,e; destiny that may give her a worthy suitor. 5. (i) Where does lhis. scene take place? Who has alighte,d at the gate? This scene takes place in a room in Portia's house at Belmont. Gratiano has alighted at the gate. (ii) The visitor brought gifts of rich value. What does this indicate in the , context of the scene? Gifts of rich value indicate the great regard and love Bassanio has for Portia. (iii) Give the meaning of the last three lines of the extract. In the last three lines, the servant says that he has not seen so generous 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. (vi) Explain how the plot makes progress in this scene. 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 and the forfeiture. It also seems to reveal the wisdom of the device of caskets because it shows that thp results rlfP not rl mere lottf'ry. It Pf,()VPS 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 suspenseduring Bassanio's selection later. This scene also keeps up the theme of appearance and reality. /// ..: ;/ ) I . I .._ ..... .. - .. __ ....._"- .... ,,.:. '.- ... Downloaded by ICSE hub ! THE 60 MERCHANT OF VENICE ACT III' Scene CONTEXT ACT III Scene - HANDBOOK 1 .. (y}_ Howdoes 1 61 Shylock react to the loss of Antonio's ship? 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. QUESTIONS 2. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: 1. (i) Whom does 'she' refer to in the first line of the extract? What is said about her in the extract? In the first ! line 'she' refers to the rumour or report which is personified as a tatling old woman. When Salarino talks about Antonio's ship, Salanio only wishes that Rumour may prove to be a big liar in thiscase ~s any old woman, who ever gossiped with her neighbours oyer her' ginger bread cakes and made her neighbours believe that she mourned sincerely for the death of her third husband .. (i) 'Y.D_ose. .-flight is being talked about? Where has the person flown? With -'-"---'~hom has the person flown? The flight of Jessica is being talked about. She has flown to Belmont. Jessica has flown with Lorenzo. (ii) What~'bad news, besides the flight of "tHebird, is given just before th~~ arrival of Shylock? Just before the arrival of Shylock, the news about the Antonio's shipwreck in the English Channel at a spot called Goodwin Sands is given. (iii) Give the meaning of: \~hat was said earlier about the place where a ship of Antonio was .wrecked? Where did the news about the ship-wreckage spread? "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 for business transactions. \_~ the meaning of: without any slips of prolixity or crossing the plain highway of talk, These words mean: 'without speaking much or beating about the bush'. That iswithout being guilty of any lengthy, irrelevant or tedious speech or going outside plain direct speech. (iv) What feelings for Antonio are expressed by Salarino and Salanio in this extract? J I In this extract, Salarino and Salanio express their feelings of concern .and sympathy for Antonio. Salanio calls him 'good Antonio', hone~t Antonio and wants a better adjective to describe "him'- Finally, Salama conveys the news that Antonio has lost a ship. Salarino hopes that this .may be the end of his losses. the. bird was fledged; and then it is the complexion of them all to leave the dam. These words mean that it is the nature of a fully feathered yot,J.ngbird to leave the nest when it is old enough. He means to say that Jessica was old enough to run away with her lover, Lorenzo. (iv) What steps has Shylock taken to get back the flown bird? .c.>: Shylock took all possible steps to get back his eloped daughter. He asked the Duke for justice and even persuaded 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. (v) j::Iow''''aoes Salarino compare the character of the flown bird and of ,____,-.~. Shylock after the extract? 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 as ordinary red wine is to expensive white Rhenish wine . -- ..-- THE MERCHANT 62 OF VENICE - HANDBOOK .. ,_., Downloaded by ICSE hub ACT III Scene 1 4. 3. (i) What is meant by a 'bankrupt' as well as a 'prodigal'? Why has the man gone bankrupt? Why is he called a prodigal? (i) Who is the thief referred to in the extract? What had the thief stolen? What loss has Shylock suffered due to the theft? A 'bankrupt' means a person who has not enough money to payoff his Just debts. 'Prodigal' means a spendthrift who spends money recklessly. The man has gone bankrupt because his ship has been wrecked in the English Channel with its rich cargo. He is a spendthrift who has mismanaged his affairs and has gone bankrupt. That is why he is called 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. (ii) Who is Tubal? Why did he go to Genoa? a prodigal. by Shylock. \~~ krown Tubal is another Jew, a friend of Shylock. He went to Genoa to search for Jessica, whp has eloped with Lorenzo . as Rialto? Why was the m~n said to go 'so smug upon ~ the mad'? . (iii) What news did Tubal bring from Genoa about the thief? The Venetian StockExchange where the merchants used to met to transact business deals, was known as the Rial to; The man used to go to Rialto smiling and so self-satistied because he was sure of his financial pusition as he owned a number of ships carrying merchandise to the four corners of the world. Shylock :;,;ct)'s these words to comp<1rcAntonio's financial position in the past with his present bankrupt condition. Tubal brought .the news that he went to the places in Genoa where he heard some 'news about Iessica but could not find her. (iv) State what ill-luck befellAntonio. Why was Shylock happy over the news? One of Antoruos large ships has been wrecked on the way back from Tripolis. This ,"V<18 the ill-luck that befell Antonio. Shylock was happy over the news as his chances of taking revenge on Antonio became brighter. (iii) Give some incidents to show that the man referred to in the extract used to insult Shylock. The man referred to in the extract used to insult Shylock. He used to disgrace him, laugh at his losses, mock at his gains, desprse his race and interfere in his business deals simply because he was a Jew. \~ 63 (v) The extract refers to 'satisfaction' and 'revenge'. In what context are these expressions used by Shylock? The bankrupt caused loss to Shylock in Venice by lending money without interest and thus, affecting Shylock's business of lending money at exhorbitant rate of interest. Shylock uses the expression satisfaction and revenge in the context of his efforts to retrieve 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 and money.nor taking revenge on the Christians, who caused her elopement. (v) How is the bankrupt likely to go into a loss? How will such a loss affect Shylock as far as his revenge and financial position is concerned? (vi) In the context of the theft, what reference does Shylock make of his bachelor days? The bankrupt is likely to go into a loss as his ship has been wrecked with its rich 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. In the context of the theft, Shylock makes a reference to his bachelor days. His wife Leah gave a turquoise ring to him before their marriage. . His daughter Jessica stole that ring before eloping and exchanged it for a monkey. 'bankrupt' cause loss to Shylock in Venice? Downloaded by ICSE hub THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK 64 ACT III Scene 2 A synagogue is a Jewish house of prayer. Shylock's journey 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 an eye, and a tooth for a tooth. So, Shylock feels he is justified in taking revenge against an enemy of his religion and race. 5. ~bal say that Antonio is undone? certainty that Antonio is undone? What makes him say with Tubal says that Antonio is undone because he. has heard from some of the sailors he met in Genoa that o~e of Antonio's large ships has been wrecked on the way back from Tripolis. 65 (vi) In what way, by the end of the scene, does Shylock convince the audience that his attack on Antonio is without any mercy? Shylock's passion for revenge and his complete justification of it is 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 enemies would do ..The fierceness of his thirst for ~evenge 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 r~venge too. (ii) In what mood is Shylock in this scene? How is Tubal said to be torturing him? In this scene, Shylock is in a mood of grief. He feels as if he is the only ope'.in the .world suffering from \}.lluck. 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 Antopio' 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. ACT -III Scene 2 (iii) What is Shylock's reaction on hearing about Antonio's misfortune? How is he going to punish Antonio? What would he gain by his revengeful CONTEXT QUESTIONS action? 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. (iv) Givethe meaning of : (a) a wilderness of monkeys. "- A horde of monkeys. It means that Shylockwould not have exchanged his turquoise ring even for a horde of monkeys. (b) I can make what merchandise . . .. ~~iS i will. I can make as much profit as I like. It means that once Antonio is ..' o#ofVenice, Shylock can make as much profit as he wants. a synagogue? What can you conclude from Shylock's journey towards the synagogue? Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: 1. (i) Where does this scene take place? What is meant by the first line of the extract? This scene takes place in a room in Portia's house at Belmont. The first line refers to Portia's maidenly modesty according to which she has no other choice except to think, though she may not express her thoughts. Portia says enough to convey to Bassan10 that she loved him. She is doubtful whether Bassaniohas understood what-she has said and wanted to explain further. But then she is taken over by her maidenly modesty. .~r-reason:-dOes Portia give at the end of her speech for speaking so . long? What does this show about her feelings towards Bassanio? At the end of her speech, Portia says that she spoke at length to stretch the time and delay to the fullest extent Bassanio's act of choosing the caskets. This shows that she has feelings C?f love for Bassanio and does " .. THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK 66 Downloaded by ICSE67hub ACT III Scene 2 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. (ii) Why does Portia order music to be played while Bassanio makes the choice of caskets? To what does Portia compa,re the music, should Bassanio choose correctly? ,(iii). Wh vvnyy ~..ca 't Portia teach Bassan.i~ to choose the correc~ casket? I~Bass:nio ,~. to make an incorrect choice what would Portia have wished? Portia calls for music first of q_11 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. 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 Bassanio were to make an incorrect choice, Por.tia would have wished that she had broken her promise. ,..~-euld . Portia explains the condition if Bassanio 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 Bassanio's watery grave as the riv;r is the grave for the dying sw~n. (iv) Give ~he~meaning of: Be hrew your eyes, They have o'erlook'd me and divided me; The abo~e lines mean, 'May your eyes be~confounded. They have cast aspell on me and divided me'. Portia says that Bassanio's eyes have cast a spell on her and divided her for she no longer seems to be herself. She says that half of her belongs to himand the other half to her. Even if the latter half is hers, it would still be his. So she is entirely his. Portia's eyes be a watery death-bed ,for Bassanio? (iv) How would the music call the dreaming bridegroom to his marriage? If 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. (v) What light does the extract throw on the character of Portia as a daughter and as a lover? (v) The extract shows that as a lover, Portia loves Bassanio and does not want to lose him and wants LuJelaill Iuru w iLhhe! [01 d U1Ullllt or lvvo , 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 ~s it would break her promise to her father. In what way does Portia act as a romantic heroine in this scene? In this scene, Portia acts as a romantic heroine. Her maidenly modesty and bright 'wit is seen when she detains Ilassaniou little longer while making his choice. She accompliahcs the difficult task o[ revealing Lv Bassanio her affection for him. When Bassanio chooses correctly, she is happy and surrenders herself, her property and her servants to Bassanio. She also offers him ring and makes him promise never to part with it. a 3. 2. (i) Explain the meaning of 'he makes a swan-like end.' What contemporary belief about swans is expressed in the extract? There was a contemporary belief that the swan, which is usually mute, sang a beautiful song just before its death. The swan-song. was sung only once. If Bassanio were 'to die', that is, 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. (i) Who is.Alcides? What is the 'virgin tribute"? How did Alcides save the virgl;"tribu te? Alcides refers to young Hercules, son of Alcaeus. In Greek mythology, he is depicted as a 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, expecting every moment to be devoured by the sea-monster. Hercules saved the 'Virgin Tribute' by killing the sea-monster and setting her free. Here Portia compares her Downloaded by ICSE hub THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK 68 ACT III Scene 2 tension and suspense while Bassanio makes his choice of caskets to the anxiety of .Hesione, waiting for the sea-monster's attack. She sees Bassanio as having more love than Alcides. (ii) In what way is Bassanio compared to young Alcides? Why does Portia here stand for sacrifice'? I 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 Hesione out of love but to get the horses offered as a reward. Here Portia compares herself to Hesione, who was offered as a sacrifice to a sea-monster. Similarly, if B~ssanio chooses thewrong casket, she will fall into the clutches of an unworthy suitor. Bassanio to go ahead and choose the casket. While he is 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) Which theme in the play is highlighted in the above extract? How is it highlighted? In the above extract, the theme of appearance and reality is highlighted. Bassanio, commenting on the caskets says that a pretty exterior may often hide a rotten interior. The multitude is always led astray by decorations .and adornments of various kinds. He is highlighting this theme by providing the examples of lawyers, religious heresies and cases of co~ards, who assume outward sign~of valour. (iii) Give the meaning of: (a) howling Troy: the loud lamentations of the people of Troy at-the sacrifice of Hesione. (ii) How can 'vice assume the external show of virtue? Bassanio says that every wrong has some appearance of virtue. He explains it through the example of a lawyer. In a law-suit, possession of a pleasing voice and attractive presence in a lawyer, entirely hide any appearance of wrong in the cause he pleads. The ornament of the voice gives an unsound plea, the false appearance of a good reality. Similarly religious heresies can be glossed over if a preacher makes them appear as true and just. (b) bleared visages: means tear-stained faces. The reference is made to the Trojan women who had assembled on the beach with tear-stained faces to wait arid watch the result of the encounter between the sea-monster and Hercules. (c) The issue of the exploit: It means the outcome of the rescue operation. It refers to the outcome of the encounter between Hercules and the sea-monster. (iv) What are 'The rest aloof' referred to in the extract? Who are the Dardanian wives? What were the wives doing in the scene when Alcides was saving the virgin tribute? 'The rest aloof' referred to in the extract are people in the room like Nerissa, Gratiano and others whom Portia compares to Trojan women. Dardanian wives are Trojan women. Dardanus was the mythical ancestor .of the Trojans, who were called Dardanians. The Trojan women had assembled on the beach with tear-stained faces to wait and watch the result of the encounter between Hercules and the sea-monster. . (v) Why does Portia say, 'Go, Hercules'? What will she be doing at the same time? Portia asks Bassanio,'Go Hercules' because in her opinion the similarity between Bassanio and Hercules is complete and perfect. Portia tells 69 ,~'tairs of sand'? To what are these stairs compared? '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 appearaI)ce is cultivated only to deceive the world into thinking that they are formidable. (iv) Who is Hercules and who is frowning Mars? What are they, with their beards known for? Hercules was a great hero in Greek mythology and Mars was the Roman god of war. Hercules and Mars are referred to here because they, with their beards, stand for strength, manliness and bravery. (v) Give the meaning of the following: have livers white as milk; Downloaded by ICSE hub 70 THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ACT III Scene 2 The Elizabethans looked upon the liver as the seat of courage. A brave man's liver was said to be red with blood. Cowards were spoken of as having white livers. 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 an Indian beauty. This is deceptive as people expect to see something better than an Indian beauty when the scarf is removed. 5. (i) Explain how is beauty purchased by weight? How does it make the wearers lightest? (Give the two meanings of the word: lightest.) Bassanio says that if we take the case of beauty we find that an imitation of it is easily obtainable and may be brought in the market. TIle cosmetics which enhance beauty can be bought by weight in a chemist's shop. These bring about a marvellous change in the appearance of women. The word }lightest is punned on. Bassanio .means that the addition of cosmetics makes a woman 'light' that is fair coloured. The other meaning of ,lightest' is to be frivolous and fickle-minded. ~ed to as 'crisped snaky gold~n locks'? Who wears them and who is their actual owner? 'Crisped snaky golden locks' refer to false hair that women wear. Bassanio says that the shining, golden tresses whose ringlets are tossed about by the playful breeze, seen on the head of a woman, appear to be real. Actually il is (;l1sp hair and originally it belonged to a dead woman, who is lying in the grave. (iii) What is referred to as 'the dowry of a second head'? Who has bred this head? Where is the head now? The 'dowry of a second head' refers to the. false hair (wig) worn by a woman, that appear to be real but actually is a gift from some dead woman, i.e., it originally belonged to a dead woman who is lying in the grave. Shakespeare refers to the popular custom of wearing wigs among the Elizabethan women. (iv) Why does Bassanio say that ornament is but the guiled shore to a most dangerous sea? Bassanio says that outward adornment is always deceptive. It is like the attractive but treacherous sea-shore that leads people into perilous waters. (v) Give any two examples from Bassanio's speech to show that appearances are deceptive. Bassanio asserts that appearances are deceptive. Two examples he 71 6. (i) Wh~sth.e ~the scroll. gentle scroll? Give the summary of what was written 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 af'\.,dmake his choice as wisely as' pe,: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 ~ loving kiss. ! (ii) What prize had the speaker won? Give the reasons which led to the winning of the prize. The speaker has won Portia. The speaker chose the correct casket, i .f'., lead casket coritairnnp Portia's portrait. Its simple looks impressed Bassanio more than the protestations of gold and silver. Besides, the inscription on the casket stated that the man who chooses it, must give and hazard his whole being which means his true love. (iii) What was the speaker asked to give and to receive? The speaker was asked to go to the lady and claim her as his own with a loving kiss and receive a kiss from her. (iv) Give the meaning of: (a) universal shout: loud applause of joy. This refers to the clamour of the crowd at Bassanio's choice of the right casket. (b) Giddy in spirit: overwhelmed with joy. This speaks of the bewildered state of mind of Bassanio after his choice of the lead casket. (v) To whom does the speaker compare himself? In what way does he compare himself? The speaker compares himself to the one who is striving to win some contest; like one of two prize-fighters. He compares himself as someone who wins a prize in the contest. I I Downloaded by ICSE hub THE 72 MERCHANT OF VENICE ACT III Scene 2 - HANDBOOK 73 ring, Bassanio promises Portia that when the ring leaves his finger, his spirit will flee and his life will leave him. He will part with the ring only at his death. (vi) Why is the speaker doubtful whether what he sees is true? Bassanio is at the height of his joy after choosing the correct casket. He hears a loud applause from the people' standing there. He is so bewildered by the outcome of making the correct choice, that he is not sure if the applause is for him or not. He asks Portia to confirm it and sanction it by returning his' kiss. 8. (i) Give the context in which Gratiano speaks these words. What good wishes does he give to Bassanio? . 7. After Bassanio's successful selection of the right casket and after the . speeches of Portia and Bassanio Nerissa greets them and wishes them great joy. Thereafter Gratiano speaks these words. Cratiano wishes Portia al).dBassaruo that all the joy and happiness they desire may be showered upon them. ... (i) Which possessions' of. hers, does Portia' transfers to Bassanio after he chose the correct casket? After Bassanio chooses the correct casket, Portia transfers her mansion, .her servants, herself and all her posJessions to him. : ..~on t~ree of the wishes of Porti~ which express her desire to exc:I 1I?- everythmg. ! . t ' (ii) What request does Gratiano make to Bassanio? Gratian6 requests Bassanio to grant him !a special favour - that is, to permit him to allow him to marry at the same time of the marriage ceremony of Portia and Bassanio. Portia, for the sake. of Bassanio wishes that she were sixty times better than herself, a thousand times more beautiful and ten thousand times wealthier. These wishes express her desire to excel in everything for the sake of Bassanio. (iii) What condition does Bassanio put regarding Gratiano's request? (iii) On what condition does she give the ring to Bassanio? How does the ring become a part of the main plot in the story? As a token of her love to Bassanio, Portia gives him a ring. She warns him that if he parts with the ring or loses it or gives it away, that will be a sign that his love for her is dead and give her the right to reproach him. The ring becomes. a part of the main plot of the story as it starts the ring episode we come across later in the play. (iv) Give the meaning of: Let it presage the ruin of your love, And be my vantage to exclaim on you. These lines mean: "Let that be a sign that your love for me is dead and it will give an opportunity for me to accuse you for that." Here Portia asserts that if Bassanio loses the ring she has given him, it will show the loss of his love for her and will give her the right toreproach him. (v) After Portia's speech, what does Bassanio say in his excitement? What assurance does he give to her about the ring? After Portia's speech, Bassanio is overpowered with emotion and he tells Portia that her love and goodness has made him speechless. Regarding the Bassanio gives his consent most heartily, provided Gratiano can get a wife. . \. ...... (iv) _xplaill-how Gratiano's fortune too 'stood upon the caskets'? --------~...- , While Bassanio wooed Lady Portia, Gratiano wooed her lady-in-waiting, Nerissa. However, the promise that Gratiano received from Nerissa was that Nerissa would love Gratiano 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. (v) How has Gratiano-Nerissa episode added humour to the story in this' scene? 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' slave. Gratiano, with a keen sense of humour arouses mu~h mirth and laughter in the' scene. _. f THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK 74 I ACT III Scene 2 (i) Where does the scene take place? Who brings the letter from Antonio to Bassanio? (ii) How does Portia conclude that there is some bad news in the letter? What could be the bad news according to Portia? 75 to be reasonable, but without any success. Shylock holds stubbornly to his malicious purpose of exacting the full penalty for the forfeiture of the bond. 9. This scene takes place in a room in Portia's house at Belmont. Salerio brings the letter from Antonio to Bassanio. Downloaded by ICSE hub 10. (i) Who are Tubal and Chus? What did Jessica hear Shylock say to Tubal and Chus about the bond? Tubal and Chus are two Jewish friends of Shylock. When Jessica was Portia concludes. that there is some bad news in the .letter because as soon as Bassanio reads the letter, his face turns pale and .he becomes greatly agitated. According to Portia, the bad news in the letter my.st about the loss of someone loved' by Bassanio. ' 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 flesh would give him more pleasure than to be paid the debt twenty times over. t .~ ~ (iii) What right does Portia now have to know from Bassanio the contents of the letter? (ii) What would the Duke, law and influential citizens do to prevent Shylock from t~kihg his cruel forfeiture? Portia begs of Bassanio to tell her the cause of his sorrow as she and Bassanio are one, and she ought to share in everything that happens to hirn. Hence, she asks Bassanlo to tell her what news that letter has brought. The Duke, ~aw and influential citizens would use all their powers of persuasion to prevent Shylock from taking his cruel forfeiture. Be (iv) Briefly state what Bassanio told Portia about the bond and the destruction of Antonio's cargo ships. Bassanio tells Portia that the letter contains some of the most unwelcome riews. He tells Portia that he is deeply indebted to i'I kino frir-nri. This friend for his sake agreed to a bono with his worst enemy, a man. who hates him. He did this solely lo supply I3assanio with the money he needed to come to Belmont. Bassanio looks upon Antonio's letter as if it 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. (v) What did Salerio say about Shylock's insistence on the forfeiture of Antonio's bond? Salerio says that even if Antonio had sufficient money to payoff his debt, Shylock will not accept the payment. Shylock threatens to take legal action against the city's governance and call in question the equality of rights of foreigners with the citizens of Venice, if they refuse Shylock justice by bringing Antonio to trial. Twenty merchants, the Duke and the noblemen of the highest rank in Venice, have tried to persuade Shylock (iii) What is the danger if the forfeiture is denied to Shylock as per the terms of the bond? If the 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. (iv) What does Portia offer to do in terms of payment to Shylock in cash? 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. (v) What does Antonio's letter state about his last wish? 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. Downloaded by ICSE hub 77 ACT III Scene 3 THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ACT III Scene 3 . portia's secret plans in sending 76 le l fe es fv fCt'-~~efl (i) re 1. make me your wife, get married tie (tlt,.rt fT. unquiet soul': Ie 11 ct with a disturbed, to me. grief stricken . , , lit1 ' (i) \y'bat--does mind. Shylock asks",the jailer to guard Antonio escape. r~ 1:1 tJi vJl . (l-J . t-1-~t rt-t.. &1? 1 re t (i4) after - & ete5 t}1.ebond story, Jessica-Lorenzo love story. and the nng story 1p1 fl /' tOry begins in this scene. The, bond, story IS revealed through O~j.e~ ~ g letter and Bassanio's return to Venice. ", tv J.e Ad t . 1.&e '0' f.J-'- f~ ". ' . 1~Y- J1. t after e,tJ:t~t1the ~f' ~ttJf' eS the .& f& tJl t 'tJ lawyer }e&J a ~ e}' 0 ttef r tr-e (v .,. oice of the casket by Bassanio, Portia takes over the leadership 1t\e c}1. What are your views on this statement? ., f>y} f' -a beware without of my teeth. That IS (iii) What does Shylock say after this extract, blaming interest. beware of my revenge, the jailer for bringing out of prison? After this extract, Shylock angrily of the storyline? r ,., :; 0:( f1~ '& &t e (I-~O ,fi) (b) beware myfangs: money Shylock. f'ot ' . .f;vt ,jff'" .is imp_odantJor_the orwardmovement of the storyline, It ? 0 1 tei1.e t}1.ecasket story and brings it in direct contact with "" other 1~t() of: Lent out. money gratis: lending Antonio of called him a 'dog'. Antonio of his teeth, as they can bite. -_"'-1-' __...__---....- \_._/'{a) t1& 'if'- 4) beware , (ii)1 G.iV.e"t~1emeaning ..' ~:('- ./Jete& ~ tant is this scene for the forward movement ( should clt( r'tiVef to Antonio. has taken an oath to exact the full penalty the bond. Besides, he says that since' Antonio {'Jeris5a were to stay in Belmont as spll1,s~ers or WIdows aft~r j:( ~flJ J1ds leave for Venice. But in fact they .did not do so. Portia j~ t-t&l?aa went to Venice in disguise of a lawyer and her assistant, VefiS:r and played a constructive role in saving Antonio from the fr~ the closely and see that he does not He tkns him not to plead with him t~ ~how mercy the bond sayiI~g thathe . &&~ (flO ld Portia and Nerissa supposed to be doing In Belmont ~ lotJa1'1dSleave for Venice? What did they really do? f1t'- 't p&J t . from The extract shows that Shylock was against Antonio. He insists on having ~o! ,.0 ~ f1 ask the jailer to do? Give two reasons . )d ~ Shylock "---- extract to justify why Shylock was against Antonio. ~ssanio supposed to do as frr:as Antonio s forfeiture of ther (.p ; , 13 cerned?: . J& O~l {t1 j&..c as supposed to go to Venice and offer double the amount Shylock and cancel the bond, If he did not agree to. thatl {J &~(I- J ~s to offer him, double of six thousand ducats or three times p& (}(I-,o J t or even twenty times the bond amount. (1).) QUESTIONS Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: ~ e UJife': t t! ) .' CONTEXT tJleaning of: . ~J #' to Venice? I110ney to Bassanio and sends him to rescue Antonio. She 1'1to disguise herself as a lawyer and Nerissa as .her assistant to Venice to rescue Antoni~ from the clutches of Shylock. .rr ~~-.~fl~ -V If" & ~ ~o 11 Bassanio the choice of the casket by Bassanio, Portia takes over play. When Antonio is in trouble, she offers Bassanio bond amount to save Antonio. She herself dons the . d i . and using a perfect blend of mercy an Justice saves I I I tells the jailer that he is surprised his being so foolish as to yield to Antonio's out in: fhe-open. He censures the jailer request for bringing (iv) How does this short scene show the determination the penalty as stipulated in the bond? This short scene the determination penalty shows as stipulated in the bond. His passion this scene, when he savagely sealed by his statement bond. him He refers to listen to Antonio's at him ouf: of Shylock to extract of Shylock to extract for revenge cries to the jailer to guard and see that he does not escape. the scene and refuses and to bring is revealed Antonio to the bond the in closely five times pleas. His determinatlon in is that he has sworn an oath that he will .have his ="-'. --' THE 78 (v) Describe MERCHANT briefly how this scene prepares OF VENICE the audience - HANDBOOK for the climax of the Trial scene. This scene is important It adds suspense Antonio -----_ ._.,---'~ to the bond story as it shows that it is impossible 4 79 Antonio's final wish is to see Bassanio before he dies. This shows his for but takes comfort his friend. from Belmont to in the thought that he is going to die for the sake of _._ .. _--_ _._----'''.. ACT III Scene 4 2. has enraged Antonio to speak in this manner? According to Ant?IVO, why does Shylock seek his .life ? When Antonio's continuous insists, on having wants debtors his bond, Antonio out of his clutches has made g~t enraged. He says that Shylock Salarino when they approached helped Shylock's say about the Duke? to hold good in law. (iii) Who are the strangers they have Strangers referred referred is to Shylock, doing business a Jew, a foreigner. The Duke do are the traders and businessmen in. Venice. Here, specific reference They do trade and business rights and be denied. to reproach. foreign alarm deny the course of law to the strangers? cannot in Venice, of trade If denied they will expose Secondly, nations. Why? deny the course of law to the strangers. privileges prosperity that foreigners The relationship have in Venice cannot the justice system of Venice depends of the state on its trade with They will loose confidence and it will affect the trade in the city. will raise in the. justice system Why is he in need of relief? that exists between the gentleman between bond to. gIve money the gentlemen, generosity to Bassanio even at the forfeiture i.e., Antonio and Bassanio. and Bassanio is Antonio readily agrees to Shylock' to woo Portia and never of the bond. Bass~nio before he dies. Bassanio reciprocates regrets by to save his friend. of: (a) an equal yoke of love: by the same bond of love. (b) Of lineaments, of manners and of spirit: features, disposition. {LYJ__wn-ydo~ Portia Portia says mind, behaviour and conclude that the true gentleman' must be like Bassanio? that when by the tie of mutual two people are close friends love, their two natures 5 his His last wish is to see the same sentiments back to Venice soon after his marriage (iii) Give the meaning Firstly, the If injustice is done. to Shylock, other foreigners and objections. that follow: ~n:onio is referred as d tl Llt' gentleman. He is in need of relief as Shylock InSIstS on the penalty for thf> forfeirn re of th'e bond, which is a pound of flesh from any part of his body. rushing (iv) Can ,t~~'Duke to as a true gentleman? that of lov~, affection and friendship. to in the extract countries the questions ~ ~!2,_Ex-plain the relationship to in the extract? What commodity In Venice? from other given below and answer 1. (i) Who is referred says that he is sure that the Duke will never permit the penalty of the bond Read the extracts QUESTIf)NS him for help. This Shylock to hate him. (ii)""'What does Salarino CONTEXT pleas to "Shylock to listen to him fail and he to take away his life because he has frequently ... great love and affection for Bassanio. Antonio resigns himself to his fate Venice. (i) What .. (v) What final wish does Antonio express before he would die? What does it reveal about his character? revenge. ,This scene fills the interval before the Trial scene and allows time for B~ssanio' s journey --. ---- ... ACT III Scene because it brings the action near to the Trial Scene. to escape Shylock's _ _---------------------_ _ hub '---Downloaded by ICSE .. and may have many are united things. in Downloaded by ICSE hub 80 THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ACT III Scene 4 common. There must be a certain similarity of features, mind, behaviour and disposition. This makes her conclude that the true gentleman, i.e., Antonio must be like Bassanio. (v) Show clearly how Portia's marriage takesplace by the true gentleman. (v) .~y does. Portia say that during her absence Lorenzo would not find it difficult to run her house smoothly? due to the risk taken Portia says that during her absence Lorenzo would not find any difficul~ in running her house because she has instructed her servants to accept Lorenzo and Jessica as their master and mistress till she comes back. Bassanio needed three thousand ducats to come to Belmont to woo Portia. He approached Antonio for help. As Antonio had no ready cash with him, he borrowed the amount from Shylock, his enemy after signing the treacherous bond. Bassanio could win over Portia and marry her due to this generosity of Antonio. (vi) How does Portia show that she is intelligent and has good management skills? In this scene, Portia shows that her intelligence and good management skills. Spe devises a plan to save Antonio ftom 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. (vi) ~,Which aspect .of Portia's charact~r.:is shown in this scen~? E 'This scene shows Portia's intellectual ability, her devotion to Bassanio and her admiration for Antonio. She feels that since Antonio is }ike (B~ssanio in mind and personality, her admiration for Antonio is justified. 2. (i) Wh~~ meant by 'the husbandry and manage of my house'? \..._~above words mean: the control and management of my house. Portia tells Lorenzo that she gives into his hands the entire management and care of her mansion till the return of her husband. 3. __ (i) }'Yhere"does Portia send Balthazar? Why does she choose him to do the .,--errand for her? (ii) What responsibilities does Portia give to Lorenzo? Till her husband's return, what would Portia do? 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 Nerissa alone as her companion until the return of her husband. (iii) What in fact was Portia's intention in leaving her home? Why did she ....-.-. \.... __ __.--need Nerissa to accompany her? Portia's intention in leaving her home was to go to Venice to save Antonio from the clutches of Shylock by disguising herself as a lawyer. She needed Nerissa to act as lawyer's clerk. \...Q:W~r what pretext was Portia leaving her house? 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 return of her husband. 81 Portia sends Balthazar to Padua to Dr. Ballario. She chooses him for this errand as Balthazar is her honest and trustworthy servant. (ii) What does Balthazar take with him? To whom is he to give it? Balthazar takes with him a letter to be given to Dr. Bellario of Padua, a lawyer and Portia's cousin. (iii) Give the meaning of: (a) with imagined speed: with maximum speed one is capable of. (b) to the. common ferry/ Which trades to Venice: to the public ferry-boat which plies to and from Venice. (iv) What was the purpose of sending Balthazar to Portia's cousin? The purpose of sending Balthazar to Portia's cousin was to hand over to him her letter andthen to bring back from him certain letters, notes and robes. Notes prefer to Dr. Bellario's written opinion about the case. ! T" THE MERCHANT 82 OF VENICE - HANDBOOK Robes refer to the robes of a Doctor of Law for Portia and the dress of a lawyer's clerk, meant for Nerissa. (v) What hints does Portia 'give to Nerissa in the extract regarding their mission? When and how are the rest of the plans to be revealed? After Balthazar's departure, Portia gives Nerissa a hint regarding their 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 ofthe plan to Nerissa in the coach which will carry them to their destined place. ' ~--.------- Downloaded by ICSE ACT III Scene 5 83 ..(iv) Give-the meaning of: (a) puny lies: credible lies, lies that are convincing. (b) raw tricks: inexperienced tricks of youth. (c) braggi~$. Jacks: 'boastful fellows. . . (vL~lf<ircioes Porti~ tell Nerissa about disclosing her future plan? Comment '6~ the imaginative skills of Portia in this scene. Portia tells Nerissa that she will outline her future plan to' her in the coach while travelling to Venice. This scene describes the imaginative skills of Portia. She plans in detail the plan of action and decides clearly her and Nerissa's: roles in it. The way she plans.to speak and walk and tell boastful lies clearly .indicate Portia' s imgina'ti~e skills. 4. (i) Why wouldn't the husbands of Portia and Nerissa recognise them when they would see them? 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. ACT III Scene 5 (i~)- ,'fiowwill Portia appear and behave after she reaches the destination? 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 youth, passing from boyhood to manhood. She will walk with long manly strides instead of two short and quick steps of a woman. She will talk of broils and fights like ,a boastful young man. She will tell fanci+ut stones, as for instance how many greal ladies have loved her and died of a broken heart. She says that her mind is full' of thousands of school-boyish pranks and she will try them all. CONTEXT Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: 1. (i) .: 'b::rt:' is Launcelot? What is he discussing and with whom? Launcelot is in the garden of Portia at Belmont. Launcelot is discussing with Jessica the question of her salvation. He says that being the daughter of a Jew, she will be damned, LhaLis there is no salva Lionfor her soul because children are punished for the sins of their fathers. This is because Christians of those days believed that for the souls of Jews and non-christians, there is no salvation. . ,(iii) VYh:a(~;'quaintlies' would Portia tell to mislead people? How, does she -, '''-/~xpect men to' react' to her quaint lies? Portia will tell fanciful stories as for instance how many great ladies have loved her and died of a broken heart because she did not love them in return. Then she would say that she could not help it and pretend she is sorry for them and that she wished they did not die for her sake as it was not her fault. Similarly, she would tell scores of other little inventions and lies. She expects men to believe that she has left school more than a year. QUESTIONS L \(i9 ",--' ~ ~ho .isto be blamed mor~,o11n/2t-f~r~at -t~~so~~'! ,,>" /'! .' .J..,r;< ;), . 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-eater will be added to the group of pork-eaters. ".'< ': Downloaded by ICSE hub THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK 84 ~WWdUld Jessica's becoming a Christian affect the. price of hogs? ACT III Scene 5 85 Thus, Jessica states that there is no another woman like Portia in this world. She is peerless; Jessica's becoming a Christian will increase the number of pork-eaters and thus, will affect the price of the. pork. (iii) What has Lorenzo said earlier about Launcelot's skill in using words? (iv)_}V-llat"didLauncelot say earlier about damnation of Jessica? How did <: > he justify his opinion of damnation? How does Jessica hope to escape Lorenzo tells Launcelot that he is trying to show his wisdom by using words at every opportunity. He tells him to try to understand a simple man, who speaks plan language. damnation? 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 t~ e~ca?e 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 pus band (1 Corintheans 7:14). I" ; (v}/EXplain the conflict of religions referred to in this scene _- t ;: I Conflict ofreligi6ns is highlighted.in this scene. Christians of those days believed that non-Christians and Jews will be damned. Since Jessica is the daughter of Shylock, she will be damned. However, J,es~icaas,ser:s her position referring to St. Paul, who said that the unbelieving wife IS sanctified by her husband who is a Christian. 2. (i) What is ipast all expressing'? Why does Jessica suggest that Bassanio should lead an upright life? Jessica uses these words - 'Past all expressing' which mean words are not enough to express her admiration for Portia. Jessica suggest~ th~t Bassanio should lead an upright life because he has such a blessmg 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. ,_~oes Jessica say immediately after this extract praising Portia? Immediately after this extract praising Portia, Jessica says that if ~wo gods should 'enter into a contest and stake two earthly women as pnzes in the game, then if.Portia were to be one of them, the other woman would need some addition to her worth so as to make the stake equaL (iv) What mix up of words has Launcelot done earlier in the context of serving dinner? Bring out the humour arising from his speech. 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 misuriderstands '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 'Iaid/ 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) Give a brief character sketch of Launcelot in this scene. 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 filled his mind with quite a stock of fine words ready for use. Downloaded by ICSE hub .: ImS?' ..: ..... -. THE MERCHANT 86 OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ACT IV Scene 87 1 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. ACT IV Scene 1 2. CONTEXT QUESTIONS (i) In what way does the Duke expect Shylock to mitigate his stand towards the forfeiture?' ., Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: 1. (i) Where does this scene take place? What has the Duke said before this extract about the hard-hearted .adversary? ~ This scene lakes place in a court of justice in Venice. Before thi~ extract, :_) the Duke has described the hard-hearted adversary .as an inhuman wretch without pity, totally lacking in mercy. (ii) What rigorous course-is referred to in the extract? Why does Antonio say that no lawful beans can carry him out of his enemy's reach? The rigorous course referred to in the extract is the demand for the pound of flesh from Antonio's body by Sh~lock, as. the penalty .for the forfeiture of the borid. Since Shylock remains obstinate, Antomo says that no lawful means can save him from his enemy. (iii) Give the meaning of: (a) \, I do oppose/My patience to his jury. I shall suffer his cruelty and. anger with patience. J (b) arm'dl'To suffer. I am prepared to .face his cruelty and anger with a calm spirit. (iv) From the speech of the Duke, after the extract, give an example to show that the Duke was anrioved with Shylock. 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 will rele~t and not only show kindness and pity but will agree to abandon hIS claim and forego a portion of the original sum borrowed by Antonio. (v) In what mood are Shylock and Antonio at this juncture? At this juncture, Shylock is defiant and insistent on the penalty for the forfeiture of the bond, i.e., a pound of Antonio's flesh. Antonio on -:;.)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. (ii) What is meant by 'a moiety of the principal'? Why does the Duke request Shylock to have 'mercy on Antonio? . ~)'A moiety of the principal' mea~s ~ part .of the principal. The Duke requests to have mercy on Antonio SIncehIS losses 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. (iii) Give the meaning of: (a) so huddled on his back. ;:." So accumulated on him. It refers to the many losses that befell on .) Antonio so thick and fast. (b) never train'dlTo offices of tender courtesy. --;~) 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 as rough as stones and from uncultured Turks and Tartars, who have never been taught the feelings of human kindness. (iv) Who are the Turks and Tartars? What is said about them in the extract? ~;rurks are the. people of Turkey and Tartars are the people of Tartary. .They were considered uncultured and having no feelings of human kindness. They were considered to be stubborn. The Duke says that even the Turks and Tartars, who have never been schooled in acts of kindness and love, will feel pity and sympathy for Antonio's plight. (v) Why does Shylock refuse to have mercy on Antonio? --::)Shylock refuses to have mercy on' Antonio because he wants to take THE 88 MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK revenge on him. He tells the Duke that he has already explained to the Duke his intentions. Moreover, he has taken an oath by his holy Sabbath, to see that the terms of the forfeit are carried out. ACT IV Scene 1 '(v) (i) What question is Shylock answering in the context? What examples does he give in the extract to justify his position for not giving a firm reason? Give the meaning of: (ii) (a) As to offend, himself being offended. 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. (b) a lodged hate. This means a deep-rooted hatred. This refers to Shylock's deep and - 'definite dislike and hatred of Antonio. ..... >\ How does Bassanio react to what Shylock says in the extract? (iii) I, .c 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. (iv) If Antonio is shown mercy by the Duke, against the wishes of Shylock what would be its implication? ~"If Antonio 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. ' 89 S.flOWho~ tense the scene has become as Shylock fights for his legal right against the rest. ' This scene known as the Trial Scene is the central scene or the climax of the play. The scene becomes tense when Shylock insists on his legal right though the Duke and Bassanio try to reason with him to show mercy and compassion. The stage is set for a legal battle between Shylockand the rest. 3. 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 openmouthed 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. Downloaded by ICSE Hub 4. (i) What argument takes place just before this extract? l,}lstbefore this extract an argument takes place between Bassanio and Shylock. Bassanio asks Shylock whether a man is obliged to 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. (ii) Give two examples from the extract to show that it is useless to plead with the Jew to show mercy. , In the 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, he 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 . (iii) Give the meaning of: (a) 'bate his usual height: It means reduce its mutual height, meaning to ask the ocean tides not to rise. (b) To wag their high' tops: It means to sway their high top. It refers to the swaying of the high tops of the pine trees on the mountains. (iv) What reason does Shylock give for his hatred for Antonio? 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 that these people have no well-grounded reason to offer as to why they THE MERCHANT 90 OF VENICE - HANDBOOK dislike various objects, like a gaping pig, a harmless domestic ca(~Il.d a bagpipe. Shylock says that he bears just such a deep-rooted hatred and a definite dislike for Antonio. (v) Bassanio offers Shylock six thousand ducats. What is Shylock's reaction to the offer? r Downloaded by ICSE Hub ACT IV Scene 1 Venice would be exposed to disrepute and will adversely affect the trade and prosperity of Venice. (vi) How can you conclude from the given extract that Shylock is good at giving relevant arguments to prove his case. 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 response 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 to intermarry in their families and allow them to have comfortable beds and tasty food like them. He further argues that just as people have no good reason whey cannot put up with a gaping pig, a harmless domestic cat or a bagpipe, he has no reason to give for taking a pound of Antonio's flesh. Shylock tells Bassanio that if he were to double it and double it again three times over, he would still refuse to accept thirty six thousand ducats. He wants only the penalty to be paid. 5. (i) 'let their beds / Be made as soft as yours,' Who are they referred to in the first line of the extract? Whose bedsare referred to? In the first line of the extract 'They' refers to the slaves of the Christians. The beds of thes slaves are referred here. (ii) What is meant by: 'let their palates/Be season'd with such viands?' 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. (iii) How is the pound of flesh dearly bought by Shylock? Shylock says that the pound of flesh which he claims from Antonio has 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) Why does Shylock keenly say, 'I stand for judgment'? 91 6. (i) How did Bassanio encourage Antonio assuring him of every help? 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 too, before he will allow him to lose One drop of Antonio's blood on his behalf. (ii) What is meant by "tainted wether of the flock"? In what way is he meetest for death? Antonio says that he is like a sick sheep in the herd only fit to be taken out from the herd for slaughter. He says that he is the most fit or suitable person to die. (iii) What is an epitaph? Why does Antonio talk about the epitaph at this time? Epitaph is an inscription written on the tomb of a dead man. Antonio talks about the epitaph now since he is sure that he has to die as the Jew was determined to have his bond. Shylock thinks that since the pound of flesh has been bought by him at a high price, it is his and therefore, insists on having it. He demands justice from the Duke as per the bond agreement. (iv) State the generous offer made by Bassanio to save his friend just before the extract. (v) What do the decrees of Venice guarantee? What would happen if Shylock were refused justice? To save Antonio, Bassanio offers to pay Shylock six thousand ducats, double the amount of money borrowed from Shylock. Decrees of Venice guarantee equal rights and privileges to the citizens and foreigners. If Shylock were refused justice, ~e justice system of (v) Who comes to the scene immediately after Antonio's speech? Why does .the person come? t ..... 1. !@! . Downloaded by ICSE Hub + . L. \ THE MERCHANT 92 OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ACT IV Scene 1 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. It can be concluded that Shylock has the spirit of the wolf because all his in~linationsare wolf-like - he is greedy, bloodthirsty and rapacious. Certainly the spirit dwelling in his breast must have formerly been tl;at of a wolf when its former body was slain, it took up its abode in Shylock/s body. (vi) Describe Antonio's mood in the context. How does his such attitude shape him to be an important character in the comedy? In this context Antonio's mood is quite passive and is resigned to his inevitable fate. His nobility and love for Bassanio is also shown in this extract. This attitude makes him a tragic hero and wins him the love and sympathy of the audience. 7. 93 (vi) State clearly how Shylock ridicules Gratiano after the extract. Shylock 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. (i) Explain why Gratiano reacts violently in the extract. 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 sale 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) Who was Pythagoras? What was the theory about rebirth according to him? Pythagoras was a Greek philosopher and mathematician (BC 540-510). He taught the doctrine of the transmigration of souls. According to this theory, the souls of some human beings pass, after death, into animals and those of animals into some men. (iii) Give the meaning of: (a) waver in my faith: It means to lose faith in my own religion (Christianity). It means that he tends to believe Pythagora's Theory of Transmigration. (b) the gallows did his fell soul fleet: It means that when he "Vashanged for man-laughter the soul of a wolf entered his body at birth. (iv) How did the spirit of the wicked wolf enter into Shylock? 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) How can it be concluded from Shylock's tendencies that he has the spirit of the wolf? (i) What is the meaning of 'strain'd'? Why is the quality of mercy not strained? The word '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. (ii) In what way is mercy twice blessed and is mightiest in the mightiest? Portia says that mercy carries with it a 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. (iii) What is a sceptre? What does the sceptre signify? Sfeptre 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 power. It gives him awful majesty and fills his subjects with dread and fear of him. (iv) Give the meaning of: (a) it becomes/The throned monarch better than his crown. Portia says that mercy sheds upon a royal king a brighter lusture than the crownhe wears. (b) But mercy is above this sceptred sway. Portia says that mercy is far above the earthly power of a king symbolised by his sceptre. = '.. !>:"' - .,.....:" ~tee:f" _ .., ~ . ~ ,._,.-.. -"'-~ .. ., _ _ . ..;:mv,-- THE 94 ..~ MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ACT IV Scene 1 95 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. (v) Why does Portia say that if strict justice is followed none of us would have salvation? Portia says that if strict justice were to be meted out to all, _,~.\O one, could enter heaven. We all pray to God for mercy. We pray tp 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. Downloaded by ICSE Hub (iv) What 'was Shylock's reaction when Podia offered him thrice the due amount for the first time? (vi) What does Shylock say in to Portia's mercy plea? When Portia offered him thrice the due amount for the first time, Shylock told her that he has SWornan 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. Shylock has closed his mind to Portia's arguments and says that he takes on himself all responsibility for his acts. Further, he demands justice and the carrying out of the agreement. (vii) Why does Portia later say, 'We do pray for mercy'? What does this prayer teach us about mercy? (v) Stnt~ why Shylock was confident that no one could take away his right to forfeiture. Portia later says that we do pray for mercy. This is to impress Shylock . towards mf'r,y. Shp snys that we pray to Cod to forgive us our trespasses Shylock was confident that no one could take away his right to forfeiture since the strict exposition of the I<lW 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 pr~cedents in the administration of justice. so that we flirt)' [l_Irgivl:' l.h'Y::if:' who trt!:ipl:ll'is GlgGlillsl us. This prGlyer LeadH~S us that he W~10 needs God's mercy to be shown to him, should show mercy to the man, who needs it from him. (vi) 9. (i) What is meant by 'this bond is forfeit'? How is the bond now forfeit? Shylock's deep-rooted hatred for Antonio and his determination to have Ius LUIlJ as per tlre 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." '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 pay back the three thousand ducats he had borrowed from Shylock. (ii) Give the meaning of: When it is paid according to the tenour. It 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 torn only when its terms are carried ou t. What impression of Shylock's character do you have from the above extract? Give a reason to justify your opinion. 10. (i) To whom is Antonio speaking these words? What is meant by "Grieve not that I am fallen to this for you"? 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. (iii) Why does Shylock call Portia a worthy judge? Why was she compared to Daniel earlier? (ii) What is the normal custom of the Fortune? What is meant by 'lingering penance'? Shylock flatters Portia by calling her a worthy judge. He says that her leamed explanation and just decision shows that her knowledge of law 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 Downloaded by ICSE Hub 96 THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK 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. ACT IV Scene 1 (ii) 'Thou shalt have justice, more than thou desirest.' What kind of justice is Shylock going to have? 'Portia tells Shylock that he will get justice as he pleads so insistently for if But it may be that the justice will be stricter than he will wish for. (iii) Why does Antonio think that 'Fortune' is kind to him? Antonio thinks that /Fortune' is kind to him by mercifully letting him escape a prolonged suffering of his misfortune by an early death. (iii) Why does Gratiano rejoice by repeating the words, '0 leamed judge'? 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. (iv) What request does Antonio make to Bassanio to tell Portia about him? Antonio requests Bassanio to convey his greetings to his noble wife and to tell her the manner of Antonio's death. He also tells Bassanio to tell her of his true and faithful friendship for him and to speak well of him after his death. (iv) When the money is offered by Bassanio, what does Portia say by declining the offer? Portia stops Bassanio from giving the money to Shylock. She states that ~hylock 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 nothing now, bu t the bond. (v) What is it that Bassanio must not regret and what is it that Antonio does not repent? Bassanio must not regret that Antonio has to face misfortune because of him. Antonio will not regret that he is making the sacrificefor Bassanio's sake. He is willing to pay the penalty freely and with all his heart. (v) After the extract, what drawback in the bond is highlighted by Portia? After this extract, Portia highlights another loophole in the bond. She tells Shylock to be careful to cut neither more or less than an exact pound of flesh. If he fails in cutting that amount precisely and if he cuts more or less than an exact pound, if it weighs lighter or heavier by even a twentieth part of a small grain, or if the beam of scales inclines to one side only by the breadth of a hair, he will suffer the penalty of death and all his possessions will be confiscated by the state. (vi) What offer does Bassanio make, after this extract, to save Antonio? What does this offer reflect on Bassanio's love for Antonio? Bassanio tells Antonio that he has a wife, whom he loves as dearly as his own life. But he rates Antonio's life above his own, above his beloved wife and above everything else on earth. He is ready to give up all if by 'so doing, he can persuade Shylock to spare Antonio's life. Bassanio is ready to sacrifice everything he has to save Antonio from the evil designs of Shylock. This offer reflects Bassanio'5 deep love and friendship for Antonio. . 11. (i) What is the law as interpreted by Portia just before this extract? Just before this 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. 97 . 12. (i) State in your own words the 'pardon' referred to in the extract. State the conditions under which the pardon is granted. Why does the Duke threaten to recant the pardon? '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. ____ ......... 98 =r=~ ~...,,.mn,..,. ""'......... """"'. __ . __ . ==== .._="""""''''"'''''===-_ ... =" ..... ' ' ' "' ' .. -:..=_''''' ..""".= ..,="""-,,,~,_=.=-~--------~ THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK .................. --- ......... ----------------------- ACT IV Scene (ii) What two conditions did Antonio impose on Shylock for being allowed to retain half of his wealth? 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. (iii) Give the character of the Duke in this scene. 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. 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) What does Portia say about the payment fOFher services? How does Bassanio insist that Portia should take something as a token of gratitude? 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 of their gratitude. He 99 (ii) What does Portia ask Bassanio to give her as token? Portia asks Bassanio the ring he is wearing as a token of gratitude. (iii) Why does Bassanio say that it is a shame to give Portia what she has asked? 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 gift. (iv) What is the reality that makes Bassanio hesitant to comply to Portia's request? What does he offer to do instead? 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 thp most valuable ring available in Venice. If Gratiano were the judge, he would have constituted a jury of twelve (v) How can you conclude that Shylock is in a frustrated mood at this time? What are your feelings [or Shylock at the end of this scene? Downloaded by ICSE tells her to grant him two favours, first not to refuse his request and second to forgive his persistence. (iv) What would Gratiano do if he were the judge? What comic effect does Gratiano's offer make in the context? people, who would sentence Shylock to death and will have him hanged on the gallows. Gratiano lrere ci eates some comic effects with his sharp-witted statements. He says that when Shylock is baptised, he will have two godfathers. Further, he says that instead of the baptismal font, he would have reached him to the gallows. 1 (v) How does Portia react to his hesitation even after Bassanio tells her of his promise made to his wife? 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 and understands what Portia has done to earn the ring, she will soon relent and will not be angry for long with him. (vi) What makes Bassanio change his mind and part with the ring? Antonio tells Bassanio that he should let Portia have the ring. He tells him that the promise he made to his wife should be outweighed on this occasion by Portia's merits and the love he bears for Antonio. Hence he changes his mind and parts with the ring. (vii) What effect does the ring episode have on the audience? The relief needed after the strain of suspense in the trial for Antonio's life is provided with t~'e merry episode of the rings. It relaxes their minds and makes them tension-free. The audience totally enjoy the scene when Portia wheedles the ring out of her husband as a reward for her legal services. THE MERCHANT 100 OF VENICE - HANDBOOK '.' Downloaded by ICSE Hub ACT IV Scene 2 101 OIl" ACT IV Scene 2 CONTEXT (v) How does the ring episode become a part of the love episode? The ring episode is an integral part of the love episode. It adds humour to the ~lay and further promotes the love and commitment of the couples. An~omo agrees to be the guarantor for Bassanio that he will never again deliberately break the promise made to Portia and will never part with the ring again. ' QUESTIONS Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: 2. 1. (i) Which deed is referred to in the extract? What are the contents of the deed? Why will Lorenzo be happy to have the deed? (i) To what does Portia refer when she says, 'That cannot be'? Why do y?U think, she says so? 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 go to Lorenzo and Jessica after Shylock's death. Lorenzo will be happy with this deed as it is beneficial to him and Jessica. By..saying 'That cannot be', Portia is referring to Bassanio's request to her. to have dinner with him. Portia tells Gratiano that it is not possible for her to accept Bassanios 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) Give the meaning of: (a) Inquire the Jew's house out. Find out the house of Shylock. Portia asks Nerissa to ask someone to direct her to .Shylock's house. (b) you are well 0 'erta'en. I am glad to have overtaken you. (iii) Where is Portia going that night? Why should she reach home before her husband? Under what pretext was she' away from home? 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) What comedy follows later because of Bassanio having given the ring to Portia? 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. (ii) Wh a IS . th e ' youth' referred to in the extract? Why should the youth be shown Shylock's house? . The 'youth' referred to here is Nerissa. The youth should be shown S~ylock's house so that she could give the draft deed to Shylock for his signa ture. (iii) Wh at tnc . k iIS N erissa planning? How would Portia and Nerissa challenge their husbands about their rings? How will this incident later on have a comic effect in the play? 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. 102 THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ACT V Scene (iv) How does Act IV of the play end? How does ,it prepare the audience for the final Act? Act rv of the play ends with Nerissa and Gratiano ~oing t~ se~rch for Shylock's house to make him sign the deed .and ~lth Nerissa s plans to get the ring from Gratiano. Loss of the nngs IS com~lete and the consequences are seen in Act V. Act IV prepares the audience for the final resolution of conflict in Act V. (v) Comment on the leadership shown by Portia in Act IV. Portia's intellectual ability and leadership are shown in Act IV. She considers herself perfectly justified in what she is doing. Throughout the act, she is calm and composed. She has learnt Dr. Bellarios instructions so well that she seems to know how to act the role of a lawyer. She coolly . proceeds from' one point to another. She has provided herself wit~ all the necessary documents and law books for the case to be made against Shylock if hp cines not relent. She makes Shylock to c~mmit himself in the court that he will accept nothing but the penalty In the bond and ensures that Shylock is judged as per tl1P law as he wanted and ably managed lo save Antonio trom his evil dt-siellloi. Downloaded by ICSE 103 Hub 1 ACT V Scene 1 CONTEXT QUESTIONS Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: 1. (i) Which topic is being discussed in the extract? ~The theme of love is being discussed in the extract. (ii) Who is Thisbe? What is meant by 'fearfully o'ertrip the dew'? ~hisbe was a beautiful maiden of Babylonia who was in love with 'Pyramus, ~ho also belonged to the same place. The words 'fearfully , o'ertrip the dew' means that Thisbe, with a heart throbbing with fear, came daintly, stepping over the dewy grass. (iii) Give briefly the story of 'lhisbe. , -, Thisbe arid Pyramus lived in adjoining houses but their parents would not let them marry. They managed to talk to each othpr though a hole in the garden wall. One moonlit night they arranged to meet secretly at a tomb in a forest outside the city. Thisbe arrived first, but heating the roar of a lion she ran away in terror, leaviIlg behind her mantle. The lion seized the mantle, tore it and stained it with blood of an ox it had killed. Pyramus came later. Seeing the stained mantle he concludo.I that Thisbe had been devoured by the lion and stabbed himself. Later when Thisbe returned to the tomb she saw the dead body of Pyramus and killed herself. They are symbols of faithfu] love. (iv) Who is Dido? Why is she standing with a willow.in her hand? 1 Dido ,,:as the queen of Carthage and the. foundress of the city. After . the Trojan War, .the ship ~f Aeneas, a ~roJan prince came to Carthage a~ was entertained by DIdo. She fell ill love with him. But the gods wanted Aeneas to go to Italy. Aeneas cruelly deserted her ~md set sail secretly at night. Dido heart broken, lit a funeral fire and died in its' flames. Her anxious wait for Aeneas is symbolised by her standing with a willow in hand. Downloaded by ICSE Hub ",_ .... .. c THE 104 MERCHANT OF VENICE - HANDBOOK ACT V Scene 1 (v) What do the 'willow' and the 'wild sea-banks' signify? ...J..villow and the wild sea banks are emblems of forsaken love. Queen ?[)ido stood on the wild sea-shore, carrying in her hand a willow-wand, the emblem of foresaken love, waving to her lover Aeneas in the ship, vainly appealing to him to return to her. (vi) Why are the stories of Thisbe and Dido given in the context? In your answer, bring out the comparison aimed at, between the characters in the play and the stories of Thisbe as well as of Dido. stories of Thisbe and Dido are given in. the context to heighten the /) theme of love. While Thisbe's story tells of faithful lovers, Dido's story speaks of foresaken love. Jessica refers to Thisbe's story and refers to her faithful love for Lorenzo. Dido's story is narrated by Lorenzo to taunt her at the fate of Dido. Constancy of the love of Lorenzo and Jessica is highlighted in the scene. an opportuni~ for el?ping with Jessica. He decides that Jessica disguised as a page w~ll be hIS torch-bearer in the masque. When Jessica feels . 'i..embar~assed in ~p~ge-boy' s dress, he satisfies her by saying that she looks charming even In the disguise of a boy and finally takes her with him. (v) What do Venice and Belmont stand for? What does the elopement Lorenzo and Jessica from Venice to Belmont signify? (i) What did Jessica steal from the wealthy Jew in such a night? J Jessica stole from the wealthy jew money and jewels. (ii)" What precautions were takenby Jessica and Lorenzo to ensure that she could escape from her father's house undetected? of ) Ve~ce stands for a busy life, full of problems, businesses and hardships while Belmont stands for peace, love and tranquility. Elopement of Lorenzo and Jessica from Venice. to Belmont means they have freed themselves from the destructive facts of life at Venice and have come to Belmont, where there is peace and tranquility and that nurtures their love. 1 .. \ The 2. 105 3. (i) Where does this scene take place? Who is Stephano? What message "does he bring? r-zl}niSscene takes pl~cein the garden in front of Portia's house in Belmont. ' "Stephano is a servant of Portia. He brings the message that Lady Portia will arrive at Belmont before day-break. (ii) According to Stephano, what has his mistress been doing during her absence from. home? ~c~~rding to Step~ano, d.uring her absence from home his mistress was / VISIting the roadside shrines with holy crosses. She knelt and offered prayers at these holy places for blessings in her wedded life. . :~ z::'\Jessicaand Lorenzo took all precautions to ensure that she could escape / from her father's house undetected. Lorenzo came to take her as a part of a masquerade dressed in costumes and wearing a mask. Jessica dressed herself as a boy and they eloped in a moon-lit night when Shylock was away at Bassanio's house for dinner. (iii) Ho~did Jessica's father react to her escape? What were Jessica's feelings just 'before her elopement? ~}Jessica's father reacte~ viol~nt1y at J~s~ica's escap~. He was a~gry at / his daughter for eloping WIth a Christian and taking away WIth her, his' money and jewels. H~.wished to see her dead and ly~ng in a coffin with his ducats and jewels in it. He sought the help of the Duke and his friend Tubal to track down and find Jessica and Lorenzo. Just before her elopement Jessica feels ashamed of herself for her masculine disguise and for stealing her father's money and jewellef)', . (iv) What was the role played by Lorenzo in Jessica's escape from? ~ Lorenzo is quick to see the masquerade he and his friends have planned as (iii) In reality, what has she been doing during her absence? Who accompanied the mistress? . ~l~ reality, during her absence from home she went to Venice disguised -"as a Doctor of Law, and successfully argued for Antonio in his bond-forfeiture case and saved him from the evil designs of Shylock. Nerissa accompanied her mistress as the lawyer's clerk. (iv) What role did Portia's maid play in the company of her mistress? 7/1 In the company j of her mistress, her maid played the role of a lawyer's clerk. Once the deed document was made, Portia's maid went to Shylock's house for his signature on the document. (v) Explain how the Jessica-Lorenzo .romance is linked to the love story of Portia and Bassanio. "C'. Jessica-Lorenzo romance is linked to the love story of Portia and Bassanio. _/ .#'.' THE MERCHANT 106 OF VENICE - HANDBOOK Lorenzo is Bassanio's friend and well wisher. Jessica is Shylock's daughter who finds life at her home hell. Bassanio's dinner party provides Jessica and Lorenzo an opportunity to elope. They elope to Belmont and stay at Portia's mansion during her absence. ACT V Scene (i) Who was Orpheus? What effect did the music played by Orpheus have on objects in nature? Orpheus was the son of the Muse Calliope. He was a famous poet of Thrace. He was presented with a lyre by Apollo and instructed by muses in its use. He enchanted with its music not only the wild beasts, but also the trees and rocks upon Olympus. It is said that he made trees, stones and streams move from place to place by the power of his music. (i) Who speaks these words? Where is he now? To whom is he speaking? Lorenzo speaks these words. He is in the garden in front of Portia's house in Belmont. He is speaking to Jessica. (ii) Give the meaning of: (ii) What has the speaker said about music before this extract? Since naught so stockish, hard, and full of rage, But music for the time doth. change his nature. Before this extract the speaker has asked Stephano to arrange for some music in the open air. The above lines mean that there is nothing in the world so insensible, so fierce and unyielding tha t it does not, even for a passing moment, yield to the power of music. It means music can change the nature of things. at least for some time. (iii) According to the speaker, what effect does music have on animals? What is the effect of lack of music on men? (iii) What has Lorenzo said earlier about the effect of trumpet sound on wild colts? Earlier Lorenzo had said that at the sound of trumpet, wild unbroken horses, rusl iing madly Over the plains with energy come to a standstill. They remain quiet, listen and gaze calmly. (iv) Give the meaning of: (a) patines of bright gold: glittering plates of bright gold. (iv) What does Lorenzo say about the man who has no sense of music? T.orenzo Si'lys that tlw rnari, who has no sense of music is capable of. treachery, intrigue and dishonesty. His spirit has no spark of brighter feelings and he is lifeless like the world sleeping at night. His emotions are sordid and as dark as hell. Such a man can never be trusted. (b) floor of heaven: Lorenzo describes the sky as the floor of heaven. (v) What is the effectof music on the person to whom these words are addressed? The effect of music on the person addressed here, i.e., Jessica, is one of sadness. Lorenzo explains that due. to her attentiveness, she gets lost in music. (v) What is referred to as Erebus? Why is it used in the extract? Erebus was the son of Chaos. His name signifies darkness. In classical mythology it was considered also as the home of the dead, an area of darkness near hell. Departed souls had to walk through this area during their passage to Hades. Lorenzo says that a man, who does not love music, has thoughts as dark as night and emotions as dark as hell. (vi) According to the Elizabethan view of music, what are the orbs said to be doing? Why can't human beings hear the music of the heavens in this life? .Elizabethans believed that every star or planet produced, in its motion, a peculiar musical note and the combination of all notes composed the harmony of the universe. The angels are said to be listening to the music of stars. Our souls are immortal and they produce divine music. But as long as the clothing of mortality - the human body - encloses the soul, we cannot hear the music of the heavens. 107 s. 4. According to the speaker if animals hear music, they quickly come to a standstill and remain quietly listening and gazing with calm eyes. Lorenzo says that a man who lacks music is capable of treachery, intrigue and dishonesty. His spirit has no brighter feelings, his emotions are sordid and dark as hell. Such men cannot be trusted. Downloaded by ICSE Hub 6. (i) What is meant by 'a hoop of gold' and 'a paltry ring'? 'A hoop of gold' means a circlet of gold. 'A paltry ring' means a ring of small value. ; 1 .

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