The Merchant of Venice: Key Concepts

The Merchant of Venice is a story of friendship and sacrifice. Antonio, a wealthy merchant, helps his friend Bassanio court the wealthy Portia by securing a loan from Shylock, a moneylender. Shylock, who despises Antonio, demands a pound of Antonio's flesh if the loan is not repaid. Bassanio wins Portia's hand by choosing the correct casket. Meanwhile, Shylock insists on his bond when Antonio's ships are lost. Portia, disguised as a lawyer, cleverly saves Antonio by pointing out that the bond allows no blood to be shed. Shylock is defeated, and the story concludes with Bassanio and Portia's happiness.

What is the central theme introduced in 'The Merchant of Venice'?

• Love and marriage

• Friendship and sacrifice

• War and peace

• Wealth and poverty

How is Antonio described in the story?

• A lazy and indifferent merchant

• A cunning and deceitful merchant

• A rich and generous merchant

• A poor and humble merchant

What does Bassanio need to win Portia's love?

• A rare jewel

• A letter of recommendation

• A large sum of money

• A new ship

What unusual condition does Shylock set for the loan?

• Bassanio's ring

• Portia's portrait

• Antonio's house

• A pound of Antonio's flesh

What does Jessica do that angers Shylock?

• She steals his money and elopes

• She sells his house

• She marries a Christian

• She refuses to marry the man he chose

What must suitors do to win Portia's hand in marriage?

• Solve a riddle

• Choose the correct casket

• Win a duel

• Complete a quest

What does the Prince of Morocco find in the gold casket?

• A bag of gold

• A fool's head

• A portrait of Portia

• A skull

What does the Prince of Aragon find in the silver casket?

• A bag of silver

• A portrait of Portia

• A fool's head

• A skull

Which casket does Bassanio choose?

• Bronze

• Gold

• Silver

• Lead

What news does Bassanio receive from Venice?

• Antonio is ruined

• Shylock has forgiven the debt

• Antonio's ships have returned safely

• Portia is in danger