Act 2, Scenes 5–9 Summary and Analysis
Scene 5
Shylock and Launcelot are speaking in Shylock’s estate. Shylock tells Launcelot that he will not be treated as well working for Bassanio, and he calls for Jessica. Launcelot also calls for Jessica. When Shylock scolds him for calling her without permission, Launcelot explains that this scolding is part of the reason for his departure.
Jessica arrives; Shylock tells her that he will be leaving for dinner and asks her to watch the house, for he has a foreboding feeling. Launcelot tells Shylock that it will be a masquerade party, and Shylock complains that there will be too much Christian silliness in the streets if this is the case. He tells Jessica to lock the doors and windows, preventing the music entering his “sober house,” and sends Launcelot to tell Bassanio’s party he is on his way. Before leaving, Launcelot tells Jessica to be on the lookout for a Christian who will be worth observing.
After Launcelot leaves, Shylock complains about what a terrible worker Launcelot was and reminds Jessica to lock up. After he leaves, Jessica hopes aloud that she will be able to run away from her father before he gets back.
Scene 6
Gratiano and Salarino wait, in masks, outside of Shylock’s house for Lorenzo. They are surprised that he is late; usually those freshly in love are early because time passes quickly for them. Gratiano comments on how humans often grow accustomed to things and no longer enjoy them as much as at first.
Lorenzo finally arrives and apologizes for being late, and Jessica comes to the window above them dressed as a boy. After confirming that it is Lorenzo outside her window, Jessica throws down a small box for Lorenzo and talks about how ashamed she is at having to dress up as a boy. Lorenzo tells her that she must serve as his torchbearer, but she balks at this, explaining that she does not wish to be seen this way. Lorenzo convinces her to come with them anyway, and she leaves the window to collect some money for her departure. Lorenzo and Gratiano briefly speak about how wonderful she is, and she arrives, ready to leave.
They all exit except Gratiano, who stays behind. Antonio enters and tells Gratiano that there will be no time for a masquerade tonight, as the wind is just right and Bassanio is leaving for Belmont immediately. They both exit.
Scene 7
This scene opens in Belmont, with the Prince of Morocco taking the test to win Portia’s hand. Portia has a servant open curtains that reveal the gold, silver, and lead chests. Each chest has an inscription upon it: the gold chest says, “Who chooseth me shall gain what many men desire;” the silver chest says, “Who chooseth me shall get as much as he deserves;” and the lead chest says, “Who chooseth me must give and hazard all he hath,” meaning whoever chooses the lead chest must risk everything.
The prince is bewildered, unsure of the right chest. Portia tells him that if he chooses correctly, the chest will contain her portrait. The prince makes a lengthy speech about how he is not willing to risk everything he owns on lead. He considers the silver chest, believing that based on all of his accomplishments, he deserves Portia. But he decides to choose the gold chest on the grounds that she is a gem that must be placed amidst gold. When he opens the chest, he finds a skull and a scroll with a poem that reads “all that glitters is not gold” and suggests that he should have chosen more wisely. The prince leaves, broken-hearted, but Portia is glad that he failed because she did not like his dark complexion.
Scene 8
Salarino and Solanio are speaking; Bassanio and Gratiano have sailed away, but Salarino is certain that Lorenzo did not go with them. Solanio tells Salarino that Shylock has complained to the duke about his daughter’s running away with a large portion of his money. The duke helped Shylock search for Bassanio’s ship, but it had already sailed away, and Antonio assured them that Lorenzo and Jessica were not aboard.
Given Shylock’s current mood, they hope that Antonio will be able to pay him back in time. Salarino has recently heard that a ship carrying goods was wrecked outside of England, and he is concerned that it was Antonio’s ship. Salarino talks about what a wonderful person Antonio is and describes how when Antonio and Bassanio parted before the ship left, Antonio wept. Salarino and Solanio decide to visit Antonio to make him feel better, and they leave.
Scene 9
Scene 9 opens in Belmont. The Prince of Arragon is attempting to win Portia. Portia explains the rules of the game to him, and he promises not to tell any others what chest he chose—and to leave immediately and not marry anyone if he chooses incorrectly. The prince reads each inscription on the box. He rejects the lead chest because he is not willing to risk all that he owns for Portia, and he rejects the gold chest because he believes that what many men want is foolish.
Reasoning that he deserves Portia, he chooses the silver chest. Inside is a picture of a fool holding a scroll. The writing on the scroll calls the prince a fool for making such a bad judgment, and he leaves, swearing to keep his oath. Portia comments on how the men are drawn to the precious chests like moths to a flame. Then, a messenger arrives to tell Portia a servant to a young Venetian man has arrived to deliver gifts and announce his master’s arrival. The messenger believes that this is a good sign, and Nerissa hopes that it is Bassanio. They exit to greet this Venetian.
Analysis
Much of this act is designed to set the rest of the plot in motion, but it also further illuminates the character of Shylock. For instance, scene 6 helps to develop Shylock in several ways. We learn, for instance, that he is stringently protective of his wealth, asking Jessica to keep his house locked. But we also learn that he is annoyed by the music in the streets. This is a stark contrast to the lovers Lorenzo and Jessica, who listen to music as they gaze at the stars. In Elizabethan England, many would not have had access to music, and it is possible that this is the only music patrons of the play would have heard in months. By shutting the music out, Shylock potentially becomes even more of a villain to the audience.
When Jessica runs away with Lorenzo taking many of his possessions, we see more justification for Shylock’s rage and desire for revenge. There is an ambivalence in this scene with regards to Shylock. On the one hand, the audience understands his frustration and may well pity him, given all that he has lost. On the other hand, the fact that his ducats and his daughter occupy the same space in his mind—that of worldly possessions—makes it more difficult to sympathize with him. It is this layered character development that makes Shylock such a complicated character.
Expert Q&A
How does Lorenzo plan to disguise Jessica for her escape in "The Merchant Of Venice"?
Lorenzo plans for Jessica to disguise herself as a boy and act as his torchbearer during a street festival, allowing her to escape unnoticed. She is embarrassed by this disguise, but agrees, as the festival masks will help conceal her identity further. The plan is executed as Lorenzo helps Jessica descend from her window with gold and jewels stolen from her father, Shylock, facilitating their elopement while avoiding detection.
Why does Shylock accept the dinner invitation in Act 2, Scene 5 of The Merchant of Venice? Who are the "Prodigal Christian" and what is the significance of "prodigal"?
Shylock accepts the dinner invitation to maintain his advantage over Antonio, whom he despises. Attending the dinner is part of Shylock's strategy to appear benevolent while plotting against Antonio. The "Prodigal Christian" refers to Bassanio, known for his wasteful spending, which sets the stage for Shylock's demand of a pound of Antonio's flesh. The term "prodigal" highlights Bassanio's irresponsible behavior, a key element in the unfolding drama.
Why does Shylock accept a dinner invitation in Act 2, Scene 5 of The Merchant of Venice, and why did he previously refuse one?
In The Merchant of Venice act 2, scene 5, Shylock accepts the invitation to dinner because he will gain some satisfaction from witnessing at first hand what he regards as the shocking extravagance of Christians. This is what he means by “prodigal,” a word used to describe recklessness and excess.
Shylock initially refused to accept an invitation to dinner earlier in the play because it would mean being in the presence of food that wasn’t kosher.
What reasoning does the Prince of Arragon use to choose his casket?
The Prince of Arragon chooses the silver casket because he believes it best reflects his merit, as it promises to give "as much as he deserves." He dismisses the lead casket, unwilling to risk all for something so plain, and rejects the gold casket, associating it with the superficial desires of the "fool multitude." Ironically, his choice reveals a fool's head, highlighting his mistaken belief in his own deserving nature.
How does Jessica plan to escape from her father's house in The Merchant of Venice?
Jessica plans her escape by waiting until nightfall and disguising herself as a page. In Act 2, Scene 6, she appears at her window, throws down a box of gold to Lorenzo and his friends, and then descends to join them. Her escape is part of a larger plan to marry Lorenzo and convert to Christianity, effectively rejecting her father Shylock's oppressive household and her Jewish heritage.
What does the "patch" symbolize in Act 2, Scene 5 of The Merchant of Venice? Why does Shylock part with Launcelot?
In Act 2, Scene 5, "the patch" symbolizes a fool or clown, referring to Launcelot. Shylock parts with Launcelot because he considers him a "huge feeder," lazy, and unprofitable. Shylock sees Launcelot as a "drone," or an idle, useless person, and prefers that he waste Bassanio's money instead. Shylock's suspicion and mistrust of Christians intensify his animosity, believing Bassanio's influence contributes to his losses.
In The Merchant of Venice, what does Morocco say to impress Portia?
In an attempt to win Portia's hand, the Prince of Morocco praises her extensively, claiming he deserves her due to his birth, fortune, grace, and love. He acknowledges Portia's worldwide admiration and desires her deeply. Despite his flattering words, Morocco ultimately chooses the wrong casket and fails to win her. Portia, however, is not impressed, as revealed by her relieved reaction to his departure.
What does Shylock's "The patch is kind enough" comment and the phrase "Fast bind, fast find" mean in Act 2, Scene 5 of The Merchant of Venice? What does this scene suggest about Shylock's future?
In Act 2, Scene 5, Shylock refers to Launcelot as "The patch," meaning he is kind but lazy and wasteful, and is relieved to be rid of him. "Fast bind, fast find" is a proverb advising to secure one's possessions to prevent theft. This scene indicates Shylock's ignorance of his daughter Jessica's plans to elope, foreshadowing his future losses and isolation, as he is unaware of the impending betrayal and his own downfall.
In The Merchant of Venice, what three oaths does Arragon agree to?
In "The Merchant of Venice," Arragon agrees to three oaths before choosing a casket: he must not reveal which casket he chose, refrain from courting any woman in marriage if he chooses incorrectly, and leave immediately if his choice is wrong. These rules ensure that suitors are serious and face significant consequences for failure. Arragon chooses the silver casket incorrectly, thereby sealing his fate to remain unmarried and leave Belmont.
What figurative language is used in Act 2, Scene 7 of The Merchant of Venice?
In Act 2, Scene 7 of The Merchant of Venice, Shakespeare employs figurative language primarily through the caskets' riddles, which require interpretation beyond their literal meanings. Imagery and alliteration are used in phrases like "graved in gold." Hyperbole appears when the Prince of Morocco exaggerates Portia's desirability and saintliness. Additionally, personification is evident in the caskets' inscriptions, and the phrase "all that glitters is not gold" highlights the deceptive nature of appearances.
In Act 2, Scene 5 of The Merchant of Venice, what does 'patch', 'drones hive not with me', and 'borrowed purse' mean? Why does Shylock part with Launcelot and who does he wish to be ruined?
In Act 2, Scene 5, "patch" refers to Launcelot, whom Shylock criticizes as lazy and unproductive, like a "drone" bee that doesn't work. Shylock parts with Launcelot because he is inefficient and will waste Bassanio's "borrowed purse"—money loaned from Shylock. Shylock is content to lose Launcelot, as his departure might also lead to Bassanio's financial ruin, indirectly benefiting Shylock's moneylending business.
Explain the humor in the term "blinking idiot" in Act 2, Scene 9 of The Merchant of Venice.
The humor in "blinking idiot" arises when Prince Arragon, who arrogantly assumes he deserves the best, chooses the silver casket expecting a prize befitting his perceived merit. Instead, he finds a portrait of a "blinking idiot," symbolizing his foolishness. This moment serves as a comedic twist, highlighting Arragon's vanity and the irony of his choice. The "blinking" aspect adds a layer of mockery, as if the portrait is winking at his folly.
What are Bassanio's motives for inviting Shylock to dinner in The Merchant of Venice, act 2, scene 5?
Bassanio invites Shylock to dinner to flatter him and potentially soften his stance regarding the loan agreement involving a pound of Antonio's flesh. Shylock perceives this invitation as insincere, suspecting that Bassanio's true motive is to influence him against enforcing the harsh terms of the loan. Despite this, Shylock decides to attend the dinner, viewing it as an opportunity to "feed upon the prodigal Christian" with disdain.
From Act 2, Scene 5, of The Merchant of Venice, why does the speaker suggest locking the doors and why does he plan to go out?
In Act 2, Scene 5 of The Merchant of Venice, Shylock instructs his daughter Jessica to lock the doors to keep out the noise and revelry of a masque happening that night. He wishes to shield her from the "vile squealing" and the influence of "Christian fools." This reflects Shylock's protective nature and cultural opposition, as he aims to keep his daughter away from potentially dangerous Christian influences.
What is ironic about Shylock leaving his keys with his daughter? Why is Shylock reluctant to dine with Bassanio in Act 2, Scene 5?
Shylock's decision to leave his keys with his daughter is ironic because he trusts her to protect his home, yet she plans to betray him by stealing his wealth and eloping with a Christian. He mistakenly assumes she shares his values. Shylock's reluctance to dine with Bassanio stems from his awareness that Christians despise him, inviting him only to "flatter" him. Additionally, he resents the Christian festivities, which worsen his mood and fuel his distrust.
In Act 2, Scene 5 of The Merchant of Venice, who are the 'Christian fools with varnished faces' and what are their plans against the speaker?
In Act 2, Scene 5, the "Christian fools with varnished faces" refers to the Christians participating in a masque, a festive event involving costumes and masks. Shylock, a Jew, expresses disdain for these revelers, viewing them as hypocritical and irresponsible. He is particularly concerned because his daughter, Jessica, plans to use the masque as an opportunity to elope with Lorenzo, a Christian, defying Shylock's instructions to remain at home.
Who is Jacob, and why does Shylock swear by his staff in Act 2, Scene 5 of The Merchant of Venice?
"Lock up my doors; and when you hear the drum"
"I have no mind of feasting forth to-night"
In Act 2, Scene 5, Shylock swears by "Jacob's staff," alluding to his ancestor Jacob, a patriarch in Jewish history known for enduring personal conflicts. This reference highlights Shylock's sense of shared struggle with his forefather and his wariness of Christian society. Shylock's oath underscores his reluctance to dine with Antonio and Bassanio, reflecting his ethnic identity and the historical adversities faced by the Jewish people.
How does Portia pun with a double-meaning towards Morocco at the end of Act 2, Scene 7?
At the end of Act 2, Scene 7, Portia uses a pun towards Morocco by saying, "A gentle riddance... / Let all of his complexion choose me so." Here, "gentle" suggests a courteous dismissal, but also implies a relief in Morocco's departure. "Complexion" refers to his skin color, making the comment a double entendre that subtly insults Morocco's suitability as a suitor while expressing her relief at his failure.
Why does Shakespeare use Solanio and Salarino to convey information in Act 2, Scene 8 of The Merchant of Venice?
Shakespeare uses Solanio and Salarino in Act 2, Scene 8 to convey crucial information and foreshadow events, fulfilling a role similar to the Greek Chorus. These minor characters provide insights into Shylock's reaction to his daughter's actions, Antonio's feelings and financial concerns, and the flight of Lorenzo and Jessica. Their reports are considered trustworthy, reflecting Renaissance drama's reliance on characters with privileged knowledge to inform the audience of offstage events and character motivations.
In Act 2 of The Merchant of Venice, who hosts the dinner party and who does Launcelot invite?
In Act 2 of The Merchant of Venice, Bassanio hosts the dinner party. Launcelot, who is now working for Bassanio after leaving Shylock's service, invites Shylock to the dinner. Although the invitation comes from Bassanio, Launcelot acts as the messenger. Shylock initially hesitates but decides to attend, partly to spite Bassanio by consuming his food, despite having no genuine desire to go.
How did the Prince of Morocco interpret the silver casket's inscription?
The Prince of Morocco interprets the silver casket's inscription, "Who chooseth me shall get as much as he deserves," as a prompt for self-reflection on his worthiness. Initially doubtful, he reassures himself of his noble birth, wealth, abilities, and capacity for love, ultimately feeling deserving of Portia. Despite this, he decides against choosing the silver casket, opting instead to analyze and choose the gold casket, believing it to be the better choice.
What reasons does Gratiano give for Lorenzo's delay in The Merchant of Venice?
Gratiano suggests that Lorenzo's delay is unusual for a new lover, who typically arrives early. He uses metaphors to explain the delay, comparing it to a person who loses appetite after a feast, a horse retracing its steps without enthusiasm, and a ship that returns to harbor weather-beaten. These examples imply that initial excitement has waned, causing Lorenzo to keep them waiting.
In The Merchant of Venice, why is Act 2, Scene 6 considered funny for an Elizabethan audience?
Act 2, Scene 6 of The Merchant of Venice is humorous for an Elizabethan audience due to the gender-bending disguise of Jessica as a boy. This comedic effect is heightened by the fact that female roles were played by male actors, creating a layered irony: a boy actor playing a girl disguised as a boy. The audience enjoyed the wordplay and the absurdity of the situation, leading to much laughter.
In The Merchant of Venice, can Jessica trust Launcelot in her escape despite their religious differences?
Jessica can cautiously trust Launcelot to assist in her escape despite their religious differences. While Launcelot harbors disdain for Jews, viewing Shylock negatively, his role as a clown and his new employment with Bassanio suggest he might aid Jessica. In Shakespeare's time, Jews were often mistrusted, making Launcelot's involvement plausible. Jessica's willingness to convert and Launcelot's lack of serious allegiance allow her to rely on him for her plan.
Why does Shakespeare split the Prince of Morocco’s choice into two scenes in Act 2?
Shakespeare splits the Prince of Morocco's choice into two scenes in Act 2 to maintain audience suspense and engagement. By alternating between plots or groups of characters, this technique draws out the anticipation of the casket choices, even though the audience likely knows the outcome: two suitors will choose incorrectly, and Bassanio, whom Portia desires, will choose correctly. This structure enhances the audience's enjoyment by prolonging the narrative tension.
What makes act 2, scene 8 of The Merchant of Venice so dramatic?
Act 2, Scene 8 of The Merchant of Venice is dramatic due to the discussion between Salanio and Salarino about Antonio and Shylock. The tension arises from Shylock's exaggerated reaction to his daughter Jessica's elopement and the potential repercussions for Antonio, who is at risk due to a lost Venetian ship. This scene foreshadows future conflicts, highlighting Antonio's vulnerability and setting the stage for Shylock's demand for a pound of flesh.
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