Exploring Act 1 of The Merchant of Venice

What is the primary concern of Antonio at the beginning of Act 1?

• Antonio is anxious about a trip he has planned.

• Antonio is worried about his financial troubles.

• Antonio is focused on his relationship with Bassanio.

• Antonio is primarily concerned about his unexplained sadness.

Who is Bassanio and what does he seek from Antonio?

• Bassanio is a soldier looking for a job from Antonio.

• Bassanio is a merchant who seeks a loan from Shylock.

• Bassanio is a prince who wants to marry Jessica.

• Bassanio is a young Venetian who seeks financial help from Antonio to court Portia.

What does Shylock demand as collateral for the loan he offers to Antonio?

• a gold ring

• a piece of land

• a ship owned by Antonio

• a pound of Antonio's flesh

How does Antonio feel about Shylock at the start of the play?

• Antonio admires Shylock's business acumen.

• Antonio feels pity for Shylock's situation.

• Antonio feels contempt and disdain for Shylock at the start of the play.

• Antonio is indifferent towards Shylock.

What is the significance of the bond that Antonio agrees to with Shylock?

• The bond guarantees Antonio's wealth and prosperity.

• The bond signifies the themes of mercy and justice, and the risk Antonio takes in his dealings with Shylock.

• The bond represents a friendship between Antonio and Shylock.

• The bond is a legal document that has no emotional significance.

Who is Portia and what dilemma does she face in Act 1?

• Portia is a character in 'The Merchant of Venice' who faces the dilemma of being unable to choose her own husband due to her father's will.

• Portia is a character in 'Romeo and Juliet' who must choose between two suitors.

• Portia is a wealthy merchant who faces bankruptcy in Act 1.

• Portia is a lawyer who struggles with a case involving her father.

What role does Gratiano play in Bassanio's plans?

• Gratiano is Bassanio's rival in love.

• Gratiano plays the role of a loyal friend and supporter in Bassanio's plans.

• Gratiano is a distant acquaintance who offers no support.

• Gratiano is a wealthy merchant who funds Bassanio's journey.

How does the theme of friendship manifest in Act 1?

• The theme of friendship is shown through characters' rivalry and competition.

• The characters express indifference towards each other, highlighting isolation.

• Friendship is depicted as a source of conflict among the characters.

• The theme of friendship manifests through the characters' supportive interactions and loyalty to one another.

What are the attitudes towards money and lending as depicted in Act 1?

• Attitudes towards money and lending are mixed, with some seeing it as power and others as a source of moral conflict.

• All characters agree that money is the root of all evil.

• Money is always viewed positively by all characters.

• Lending is depicted solely as a means of charity.

How does the setting of Venice contribute to the themes presented in Act 1?

• The setting of Venice emphasizes themes of nature and tranquility.

• The architecture of Venice highlights themes of tradition and nostalgia.

• Venice's canals symbolize the theme of isolation and despair.

• The setting of Venice contributes to themes of love, betrayal, and ambition in Act 1.