ACT 1
Why is Antonio sad at the start of the play?
He does not know why he is sad.
Which prince is the first to attempt the casket challenge?
The Prince of Morocco.
Who brings news to Bassanio about Antonio’s ships?
Salerio
Who is Nerissa?
Portia’s lady-in-waiting and confidante.
“To tell the truth, I don’t know why I’m so sad.”
Antonio
Who is the lady Bassanio wishes to marry?
Portia
What is Launcelot Gobbo debating in his first appearance?
Whether to run away from his master Shylock.
Why is Antonio’s bond with Shylock now dangerous in Act 3? Explain
Antonio’s ships have been lost, so he cannot repay the loan.
Which casket does the Prince of Arragon choose?
Silver
"Not all that glitters is gold"
Inscription in gold casket
What risky bond does Antonio agree to with Shylock?
To forfeit a pound of flesh if he cannot repay the loan on time.
Which casket does the Prince of Morocco choose?
Gold
Who chooses the lead casket?
Bassanio
What is Shylock’s profession?
He is a Jewish moneylender in Venice.
“Even the devil can quote the Bible to serve his own purpose.”
Antonio
Why does Shylock resent Antonio’s business practices?
Antonio lends money without interest, lowering Shylock’s profits.
What does Launcelot’s father bring to Shylock’s house?
A basket of gifts
What token does Portia give Bassanio after he wins the casket challenge?
A ring
Who is Antonio, and what is his role in the plot?
He is a Venetian merchant and Bassanio’s close friend, who borrows money from Shylock on a risky bond.
“If you cut us, don’t we bleed?”
Shylock
Which method did Portia’s father create for suitors to win her hand? Explain.
A lottery of three caskets (gold, silver, lead); the suitor who chooses correctly wins her.
What message does Gratiano bring Lorenzo during the masque plan?
That they should meet at a certain place to help Jessica escape with her father’s gold and jewels.
What is Shylocks true motive in creating the terms of this loan?
Revenge
Who is Tubal?
A Jewish friend of Shylock who brings him news about Jessica and Antonio’s losses.
“Half of me is yours, the other half is also yours—me and everything I own are yours.”
Portia