Characters
Who is Bassanio, and what is his main goal in Acts 1–2?
A Venetian nobleman and friend of Antonio; he seeks to marry Portia.
What is Antonio’s financial situation in Act 1?
His wealth is tied up in merchant ships at sea, so he is currently cash-poor.
“In sooth, I know not why I am so sad.”
a) Who says this?
Antonio
What does Portia mean when she says, “I may neither choose who I would nor refuse who I dislike”?
She has no say in whom she marries — she must follow her father's will and the casket test.
What is Shylock’s profession and why is he upset?
He is a Jewish moneylender who resents Antonio for lending money without interest and insulting him.
What is Bassanio’s plan to win Portia?
He plans to present himself as a wealthy suitor and needs money from Antonio to do so.
“I will buy with you, sell with you, talk with you, walk with you... but I will not eat with you.”
a) Who says this and to whom?
Shylock says this to Bassanio
Translate this quote into modern English: “All that glisters is not gold.”
Not everything that looks valuable is truly valuable.
Who is Launcelot Gobbo and what decision does he make?
Shylock’s servant; he leaves Shylock to serve Bassanio.
What does the bond between Antonio and Shylock say?
If Antonio fails to repay the loan in three months, Shylock may take a pound of his flesh.
“The devil can cite Scripture for his purpose.”
a) Who says this and about whom?
Antonio says this to Bassanio about Shylock
What does Launcelot mean by saying “The fiend is at mine elbow and tempts me”?
He’s joking that the devil is urging him to leave Shylock — it’s a metaphor for his guilty conscience.
Who is Nerissa, and what role does she play?
Portia’s lady-in-waiting and confidante; she advises and supports Portia.
Describe the casket test.
Suitors must choose between a gold, silver, and lead casket — only one contains Portia’s portrait.
“I hate him for he is a Christian.” who says this and who is it about?
Shylock says this about Antonio
Explain the meaning of this metaphor: “Your mind is tossing on the ocean.”
Antonio is distracted and worried, likely about his merchant ships at sea.
How is Lorenzo connected to the main characters?
He is Bassanio’s friend and Jessica’s lover.
What instructions does Portia give to suitors if they choose wrongly?
They must agree not to marry anyone else if they choose the wrong casket.
“The lottery of my destiny bars me the right of voluntary choosing.” who says this and what does it mean?
Portia; she expresses frustration at being unable to choose her own husband.
What does Morocco mean by “Mislike me not for my complexion”?
He’s asking Portia not to judge him by the colour of his skin — referencing race and prejudice