Shakespeare Today: The Merchant of Venice - Key Quotes 2

This video lesson provides an in-depth analysis of key quotes from 'The Merchant of Venice', focusing on characters other than Shylock. It explores themes such as love, choice, hypocrisy, and mercy through the words of Bassanio, Portia, Antonio, Jessica, the Duke, and others. The lesson also examines the complex interplay between serious and humorous elements in the play, highlighting the characters' motivations and the societal norms of the time.

What is Bassanio's primary motivation for marrying Portia according to his quote in Act 1, Scene 1?

• Her beauty

• Her wealth

• Her intelligence

• Her virtues

In Act 1, Scene 2, what does Portia lament about her situation?

• Her suitors' lack of interest

• Her father's strict rules

• Her inability to choose her husband

• Her lack of wealth

What is Antonio's view on charging interest, as expressed in Act 1, Scene 3?

• It is against nature

• It is a sign of friendship

• It is a natural practice

• It is a necessary evil

How does Jessica feel about her father Shylock in Act 2, Scene 3?

• She admires him

• She feels ashamed

• She respects him

• She is indifferent

What does Jessica plan to do to end her strife, according to her quote in Act 2, Scene 3?

• Convert to Christianity and marry Lorenzo

• Seek revenge on her father

• Return to her father

• Move to another city

In Act 3, Scene 2, what does Bassanio compare losing the ring to?

• Losing his honor

• Losing his freedom

• Losing his life

• Losing his wealth

How does the Duke describe Shylock in Act 4, Scene 1?

• A generous friend

• A stony adversary

• A merciful lender

• A kind-hearted man

What is the main theme of Portia's speech in Act 4, Scene 1?

• Revenge

• Justice

• Mercy

• Love

What does Bassanio claim he would sacrifice to save Antonio in Act 4, Scene 1?

• His life

• His wealth

• All of the above

• His wife

In Act 5, Scene 1, what does Lorenzo jokingly accuse Jessica of?

• Being dishonest

• Being unfaithful

• Being unkind

• Being a thief