The Rings Merchant of Venice

1. Why does Portia want Bassanio to delay his choice?

Because she wants him to choose right. He is way better and nicer

then everyone else.

2. What makes Bassanio choose lead over the silver and gold caskets? find the quotes in the text to support your thinking.

So may the outward shows be least themselves. The world is still deceived with ornament. In law, what plea so tainted and corrupt. But, being seasoned with a gracious voice, Obscures the show of evil? In religion, What damnèd error, but some sober brow will bless it and approve it with a text, Hiding the grossness with fair ornament?

1. What does Portia’s speech A3S2 L166-174 reveal about the expected roles

of a woman in marriage.
Horrible, selfish

2. What did Gratiano’s and Nerissa’s wish to marry depend on?

If Portia and Bassanio got married Gratiano and Nerissa will as well.

3. How does Portia know that the letter contains bad news?

Bassanio is turning pale.

4. What help does Portia offer straightaway?

Permission to give him double the amount of money if not accepted triple the amount.

5. Why do we not expect this help to be successful?

As Jessica said

That he would rather have Antonio’s flesh

Than twenty times the value of the sum

That he did owe him. 

6.Do you think Portia would still be in love with Bassanio if she knew

he had lied about his wealth?

Yes