Merchant Of Venice Act 1 Scene 1 Quiz

1.

In lines 88 - 102, Gratiano suggests a possible reason for Antonio's melancholy. What is he implying?

A.

Gratiano is implying that Antonio may be putting on an act, that he is pretending to me melancholic in order to appear thoughtful and wise.
B.

Gratiano is implying that Antonio is introverted by nature, and thus appears sad to others.
C.

Gratiano is implying that Antonio is proud, as he makes known his sadness, and wants others to give in to him.

Correct Answer
A. Gratiano is implying that Antonio may be putting on an act, that he is pretending to me melancholic in order to appear thoughtful and wise.

Explanation
Gratiano suggests that Antonio may be pretending to be melancholic in order to appear thoughtful and wise. This implies that Gratiano believes Antonio's sadness is not genuine and that he is intentionally putting on a show for others. By suggesting this, Gratiano implies that Antonio may be seeking attention or trying to manipulate others' perception of him.

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2.

Salerio and Solanio, friends of Antonio, have very similar-sounding names. What may be a reason for Shakespeare to give similar-sounding names to characters?

A.

The two men may be brothers.
B.

The two men are similar in character.
C.

The two men are foils to each other.

Correct Answer
B. The two men are similar in character.

Explanation
Shakespeare may have given similar-sounding names to Salerio and Solanio to highlight their similarity in character. By using similar names, it emphasizes their close friendship and the fact that they are often seen together. This also allows for easy confusion between the two characters, adding a layer of complexity and humor to the play. Additionally, the similarity in names could symbolize their shared values, beliefs, or perspectives, further emphasizing their similarity in character.

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3.

What does Antonio's use of the word "pilgrimage" (l. 120) suggest about the nature of Bassanio's mission to win the hand of the lady?

A.

The mission to win the lady's hand is to be kept secret.
B.

The mission to win the lady's hand is a quest, a journey.
C.

The mission to win the lady's hand requires the involvement of many people.

Correct Answer
B. The mission to win the lady's hand is a quest, a journey.

Explanation
Antonio's use of the word "pilgrimage" suggests that Bassanio's mission to win the lady's hand is not just a simple task, but rather a meaningful and significant journey. The term "pilgrimage" implies a spiritual or religious journey that requires dedication, perseverance, and a sense of purpose. By comparing Bassanio's mission to a pilgrimage, Antonio emphasizes the importance and significance of the task at hand, highlighting that it is not just about winning the lady's hand, but also about embarking on a transformative journey.

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4.

One of Bassanio's motives for marriage is to pay his debts. Which line(s) in the text support this?

A.

"... but my chief care/ Is to come fairly off from the great debts/ Wherein my time, something too prodigal,/ Hath left me gagged."
B.

"... How much I have disabled mine estate/ By something showing a more swelling port/ Than my faint means would grant continuance."
C.

"To you, Antonio, I owe the most in money and in love..."

Correct Answer
A. "... but my chief care/ Is to come fairly off from the great debts/ Wherein my time, something too prodigal,/ Hath left me gagged."

Explanation
The line "... but my chief care/ Is to come fairly off from the great debts/ Wherein my time, something too prodigal,/ Hath left me gagged" supports the explanation that one of Bassanio's motives for marriage is to pay off his debts. This line suggests that Bassanio has accumulated significant debts and his main concern is to find a solution to settle them. The phrase "come fairly off from the great debts" implies that he wants to be free from his financial burdens, indicating that marriage might offer him the financial stability he needs to pay off his debts.

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5.

In what way does Antonio promise to help Bassanio in his mission to win the hand of Portia?

A.

He promises to lend Bassanio money from the profits of his cargo
B.

He promises to accompany Bassanio on the journey to win Portia's hand
C.

He promises to obtain money for Bassanio on credit

Correct Answer
C. He promises to obtain money for Bassanio on credit

Explanation
Antonio promises to obtain money for Bassanio on credit. This means that Antonio will borrow money from someone else in order to lend it to Bassanio. By doing so, Antonio is showing his support and willingness to help Bassanio in his mission to win Portia's hand. This also demonstrates Antonio's trust and confidence in Bassanio, as he is willing to take on the financial responsibility for him.

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6.

With the exit of Salerio and Solanio, Bassanio, Lorenzo, and Gratiano enter. Bassanio is described as inline 57 as Antonio's "most noble kinsman". What does this suggest the relationship between Antonio and Bassanio?

A.

Bassanio is a learned man whom Antonio respects.
B.

Bassanio is older than Antonio, and the latter seeks his advice.
C.

Bassanio is a close friend and companion of Antonio.

Correct Answer
C. Bassanio is a close friend and companion of Antonio.

Explanation
The description of Bassanio as Antonio's "most noble kinsman" suggests that they have a close and intimate relationship. The term "kinsman" implies a familial connection, indicating that they are like family to each other. This suggests that Bassanio is not just a friend, but also a trusted companion and confidant of Antonio.

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7.

What does Antonio mean when says his sadness has made him a "want-wit" (l.6)?

A.

His sadness has made him witty, as he rationalises it.
B.

His sadness has made him depressed, as he dwells upon it.
C.

His sadness has reduced him to a fool, as he does not know the cause of it.

Correct Answer
C. His sadness has reduced him to a fool, as he does not know the cause of it.

Explanation
Antonio means that his sadness has made him foolish or lacking in intelligence, as he is unable to understand or identify the reason for his sadness. This suggests that his sadness has overwhelmed him to the point where he is unable to think clearly or rationally about it.

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8.

According to Salerio and Solanio, what is the reason for Antonio's sadness?

A.

He is worried about the safety of the ships in whose cargoes he has invested his wealth.
B.

He is worried that the investment he made in business will not yield returns.
C.

He is worried that his cargo may not reach its destination on time.

Correct Answer
A. He is worried about the safety of the ships in whose cargoes he has invested his wealth.

Explanation
Salerio and Solanio mention that Antonio is sad because he is concerned about the safety of the ships in which he has invested his wealth. This suggests that Antonio's main worry is the potential loss of his financial investment due to the ships being at risk.

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9.

What do lines 79 - 99 tell us about Gratiano's character and temperament?

A.

He is blunt and rude, and offends others deliberately
B.

He is talkative and witty, and scorns pretentiousness
C.

He is honest and wise, and gives sound advice

Correct Answer
B. He is talkative and witty, and scorns pretentiousness

Explanation
Lines 79-99 provide information about Gratiano's character and temperament. They reveal that he is talkative and witty, as he engages in lively banter with other characters. Additionally, he demonstrates a disdain for pretentiousness, as he mocks and criticizes those who act in a pompous or affected manner. This suggests that Gratiano values authenticity and straightforwardness, making him talkative and witty while scorning pretentiousness.

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10.

What plan does Bassanio propose to clear off all his debts?

A.

Take loans from the market and not pay them back
B.

Wait for an old and rich relative to die
C.

Depend on Antonio's future wealth from his ships
D.

By shooting another arrow after the first one and looking carefully to see where it went

Correct Answer
D. By shooting another arrow after the first one and looking carefully to see where it went