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Questions and Answers
Who does the duke of Venice express pity for in the courtroom?
Who does the duke of Venice express pity for in the courtroom?
What does Shylock offer as an explanation for his insistence on the penalty?
What does Shylock offer as an explanation for his insistence on the penalty?
What does Antonio suggest come as naturally to some men as they do to the wolf?
What does Antonio suggest come as naturally to some men as they do to the wolf?
Who attempts to argue with Shylock in the courtroom?
Who attempts to argue with Shylock in the courtroom?
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What does the duke believe Shylock means by extending the drama to the brink of performance?
What does the duke believe Shylock means by extending the drama to the brink of performance?
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What does the duke believe Shylock means by extending the drama to the brink of performance?
What does the duke believe Shylock means by extending the drama to the brink of performance?
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Who does Antonio suggest his efforts are for naught in the courtroom?
Who does Antonio suggest his efforts are for naught in the courtroom?
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What does Shylock offer as an explanation for his insistence on the penalty?
What does Shylock offer as an explanation for his insistence on the penalty?
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What does the duke of Venice call Shylock in the courtroom?
What does the duke of Venice call Shylock in the courtroom?
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What does Antonio suggest come as naturally to some men as they do to the wolf?
What does Antonio suggest come as naturally to some men as they do to the wolf?
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Study Notes
Duke of Venice's Pity
- The Duke expresses pity for Antonio, who faces Shylock's demand for a pound of flesh as penalty for defaulting on a loan.
- The Duke acknowledges Antonio's noble character and the relentless nature of Shylock's claim.
Shylock's Justification
- Shylock insists on the penalty as a form of justice and retribution for past grievances experienced at the hands of Antonio, who has wronged him.
Antonio's Natural View
- Antonio suggests that the instincts of revenge and enmity come as naturally to some men as they do to wolves, highlighting the inherent nature of vengeance.
Argument in the Courtroom
- Bassanio attempts to argue with Shylock, seeking mercy and attempting to persuade him to forgo the harsh penalty imposed on Antonio.
Duke's Interpretation of Shylock's Actions
- The Duke interprets Shylock's insistence on the penalty as extending the drama to a crucial point, suggesting that Shylock is fully aware of the implications of his demands and the suffering it causes.
Shylock's Insistence
- Shylock reiterates his reasons for demanding the penalty, emphasizing his desire for revenge rather than mere financial compensation.
Antonio's Dismissal
- Antonio suggests that all his efforts to appeal to Shylock for mercy are futile, indicating a sense of resignation to his fate.
Duke's Naming of Shylock
- The Duke refers to Shylock in a somewhat derogatory manner, characterizing him as a "dog" within the courtroom, reflecting the tensions and animosities present.
Antonio's View on Human Nature
- Repeatedly, Antonio likens the natural instincts of some men to that of a wolf, emphasizing the predatory nature of revenge and cruelty in human behavior.
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Description
Test your knowledge of Act IV of William Shakespeare's 'The Merchant of Venice' with this quiz. Explore the court scene, the confrontation between Antonio, Shylock, and the duke of Venice, and the unfolding drama in this pivotal act.
